From July 9–12, Scouts and leaders from Troop 3 traded the Pennsylvania woods for the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, for four days of adventure, history, and plenty of laughs. Staying at Shawme-Crowell State Forest, the troop packed a lot into their trip while creating memories that will last long after the tents have been packed away.
Our home for the weekend couldn’t have been better. The troop stayed on three consecutive campsites—158, 159, and 160—which were thoughtfully arranged much like a group site. The layout gave Scouts plenty of room to cook, gather, and enjoy camp life together while still experiencing all that the campground had to offer.
The adventure began on Thursday, July 9, with a day of travel followed by a cookout at camp. After setting up tents and settling into camp life, Scouts enjoyed spending time together and preparing for the busy days ahead.
Friday was filled with some of Cape Cod’s most memorable attractions. The day began with a harbor cruise in Hyannis, where Scouts had the opportunity to see the famous Kennedy Compound from the water while learning about the area’s rich maritime history. The cruise offered beautiful views of the harbor and a unique perspective on one of Cape Cod’s most well-known landmarks.
The fun continued with a round of mini golf before the troop stepped back in time at the Whydah Pirate Museum. Scouts learned about the only fully authenticated pirate ship ever discovered and explored the fascinating artifacts recovered from its wreck. Later, they climbed Scargo Tower for breathtaking views of Cape Cod before enjoying dinner at a local favorite, Kream N Kone.
Saturday blended history, hands-on learning, and outdoor exploration. The troop began the day at the Sandwich Glass Museum, where Scouts learned about the history of glassmaking in Sandwich, Massachusetts, and watched an impressive live glassblowing demonstration. Seeing molten glass transformed into beautiful works of art was a highlight for many attendees.
The day’s historical adventures continued at Dexter’s Grist Mill and Hoxie House, where Scouts learned about the early history of Sandwich—the oldest town on Cape Cod—and gained a greater appreciation for colonial life and craftsmanship.
At the Trout Farm, Scouts had the opportunity to feed the fish and learn more about aquaculture before heading to the beach. One of the most anticipated activities of the trip proved to be one of the simplest: exploring the tide pools. Scouts spent time searching for and observing the small creatures that make their homes along the shoreline, discovering firsthand the incredible biodiversity found in Cape Cod’s coastal ecosystems.
No Scout camping trip is complete without a campfire, and Saturday evening concluded with a campfire program led by Kai. The program brought everyone together to share stories, laughter, and traditions that make Scouting so special.
Of course, every great Scout trip includes a few memorable moments that become instant troop legends. This year’s winner may belong to Sophie, who excitedly announced that she had “caught” a lobster at the campsite—only to discover that the lobster was actually Wyatt. We’re fairly certain Wyatt was released unharmed back into the wild.
Sunday morning began on a sweet note with breakfast at Cape Cod Doughnuts before beginning the journey home. On the way back to Pennsylvania, the troop made one final stop in Groton, Connecticut, to visit the USS Nautilus, the world’s first operational nuclear-powered submarine. Exploring this remarkable piece of naval history provided a fitting conclusion to a trip filled with discovery and learning.
Along the way, Scouts also gained an appreciation for Cape Cod itself, crossing both the Bourne Bridge and the Sagamore Bridge during their travels and learning more about the geography and history of this unique New England destination.
From maritime history and colonial America to marine life and campfire traditions, Troop 3’s Cape Cod adventure embodied what Scouting is all about—learning by doing, exploring new places, and building friendships along the way. The memories made during these four days will undoubtedly become stories shared around many future campfires.
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