Camp Orr Summer Camp

Why Camp Orr

Camp Orr, located near Jasper, Arkansas is the only BSA accredited camp sheltered on all sides by the National Park Service. This insures a healthy biosphere of wildlife and vegetation, back yard access to scenic backpacking and float trips, awesome climbing opportunities, and a therapeutic isolation from the cares of the outside world. Nearly 600 acres of the scenic Buffalo National River Wilderness Area are available for long-term summer camping for Boy Scouts of all ages and abilities. Activity opportunities include backpacking, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, shooting sports, swimming, and many others. Facilities include 520 person dining hall, trading post, platform tent campsites and shower facilities. It is the perfect home away from home for your Troop.

What Programs Does Camp Orr Offer?

Camp Orr offers merit badge-based summer camp experience, as well as opportunities to participate in Trekking High Adventure programs.

Buffalo Trail — First Year Camper Program

The Buffalo Trail Program is designed for those Scouts who have either just crossed over from Webelos or have limited camping experience. Basic Scout skills for the inexperienced Scout form the basis of the program. Buffalo Trail is an all-day program. In addition to rank requirements, Scouts will have the opportunity to complete at least two Eagle-required Merit Badges, Swimming and First Aid, as well as some requirements for other Merit Badges, like Cooking. Scouts will receive instruction in the following skill areas: woods tools, cooking, pioneering, knots, orienteering, nature, first aid, and outdoor citizenship. All Scouts will also have the opportunity to earn their Totin’ Chip & Firem’n Chit cards.

Merit Badge Program

Camp Orr offers over 40 challenging merit badges to Scouts of all ages in the areas of Aquatics, Shooting Sports, Ecology, Handicraft, and Scoutcraft. The Buffalo River Wilderness Company (BWRC) is a special program area where Backpacking, Climbing, Mountain Biking, Orienteering, Wilderness Survival, Geo-caching, Pioneering, Fishing, First Aid, and Emergency Preparedness are taught.

Trekking Programs

The River (Canoeing)

Established in 1972, Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Once you arrive, prepare to journey from running rapids to quiet pools while surrounded by massive bluffs as you cruise through the Ozark Mountains. This trek lets you see and enjoy the Buffalo River from the seat of a canoe. You’ll see the Ozark Mountains in all their majesty all while experiencing the clarity, beauty and relaxation while floating the Buffalo River. We will supply you with PFD’s (which meet all BSA safety requirements), paddles, meals, an experienced guide, and transportation to and from drop-off and pick-up points.

The Trail (Hiking/Backpacking)

The Buffalo River Trail provides some of the most beautiful hiking in the country as it runs along the Buffalo River’s banks. It also passes through historic sites preserved for all to see and along bluffs overlooking the river in all its beauty. For those who want a beautiful but challenging experience, this is perfect. However, it is well worth it to be able to overlook miles of the river winding its way through the mountains, walled by giant, ancient bluffs. We will supply you with meals and an experienced guide.

Special Programs

Camp Orr provides many exciting special activities and programs that are fun for Scouts and Scouters alike. Your week will include campfire programs, a Dutch oven cook-off, and an ice cream social. There are also many trainings and recreational opportunities available for the adult leaders.

Camp Orr Leader Meetings

On the last Thursday of every month, leaders are welcome to join our summer camp staff for our monthly Zoom meetings where we will discuss what to expect at camp and answer any questions you may have. Zoom meetings will be recorded, and the last Zoom meeting video can be found at the link below.

January meeting recording: January Leader Meeting - Camp Orr High Adventure Base

February meeting recording: February Leader Meeting - Camp Orr High Adventure Base

March meeting recording: March Leader Meeting - Camp Orr High Adventure Base

April meeting recording: https://youtu.be/yKgEzkzXlJU