SWIFT BASE
Swift Base first opened the summer of 1966 at S bar F Scout Ranch. From the beginning, it was designed to be a totally different experience for high-school and college-age members. It is one of only two bases of its type in our country. And we are lucky to have it here!
S bar F Scout Ranch is 5,200 acres of woods, trails, streams, Nims Lake and fun. Our 270-acre Nims Lake serves as the focal point for water skiing, sailing, fishing, canoeing, swimming, water tubing, sun bathing, kayaking and water sliding. Our herd of horses will allow you to saddle-up and explore the wilderness trails. If heights and challenges are your thing, we offer rock climbing, rappelling and a high and low ropes course. Mountain bikes are available every day for rides that see no pavement. You may want to try your hand at firing a .22 rifle or bow and arrow. At Swift, you choose what you want to do.
Evening programs include campfires and dances, volleyball and crazy competitions. We plan for an outdoor movie night, drive-in style. A game night or bonfire may be in the offing. If your crew wants to take an overnight canoe float down the lake, that can be arranged. Some crews like to hike to Castle Rock to check out the stars.
All meals are served in Swift Lodge -- dining-hall style.
You camp on a campsite with your crew and your leaders. Tents are set up for you on wooden frames. Each of our five campsites are scattered in the woods, so that you have shade and some privacy.
For more details, click here: Your Campsite and Camp Facilities
For a suggested equipment list, click here: Swift Equipment List
Camp program opportunities:
Details, details, details:
If you have questions or suggestions for this web site, please contact Director of Camping Patrick Martchink at pmartchink@stlbsa.org.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT AT SWIFT BASE
Venturers and Explorers should start making plans for the 2008 summer camp program at Swift Base. Registration begins Oct. 1, 2007. Registration for Swift Base is limited to Venturers and Explorers during the months of October, November and December. The sign-up process is based on a first-come, first-served basis. After Jan. 1, 2008, high-school-age Scouts from the Greater St. Louis Area Council and out-of-council crews may begin signing up to attend Swift Base.
Reservation fees are $25 per youth member.
Start promoting Swift to your crew or post now. Don't let the time slip by!
2008 INFORMATION:
- Swift Base Dates for Venturers and Older Boy Scouts
June 15-21, June 22-28, June 29-July 5 and July 6-12