On Saturday, October 8th, under a picture-perfect azure sky, scouts from Troop 376 embarked on one of the signature events of the 2022-23 program year – our Block Island Campout. Part campout, part vacation, the Block Island trip is one that both scouts and adults eagerly anticipate and look back fondly on. For those unfamiliar with Block Island, consider the following description from the Block Island Tourism Council website:
Block Island, nestled in the Atlantic 12 miles from coastal Rhode Island, offers the vacationer what does not seem possible anymore – simple relaxation in a startlingly beautiful place. The Island is famous for its miles of free public beaches, sparkling clear waters, dramatic bluffs, preserved open spaces, and fun-filled activities for visitors of all ages. Block Island has long been a haven for residents and visitors who have found here a quality of life that recalls the pleasures of a life that is simpler, slower, and somehow, more carefree. It’s no wonder that the Nature Conservancy has designated Block Island “One of the 12 last great places in the Western Hemisphere.”
BSA’s Narragansett Council maintains the quaint Sandsland Reservation, consisting of three small campsites situated conveniently close to Old Harbor in New Shoreham. By chance, both Somers Troops (376 and 228) scheduled Block Island for this same weekend. Upon learning this, the two troops coordinated many aspects of the trip together and helped each other out in numerous ways throughout the weekend. Everyone had a fantastic time – we couldn’t have been happier to share the island with our sibling Somers troop!
Most of the adults opted to zip around on mopeds while the scouts explored the island on bikes, visiting beaches, lighthouses, shops, and fishing in the pristine blue waters surrounding the island. The weather was perfect (if a bit breezy!), and the island locals could not have been more welcoming – including one of the local police officers who not only offered to show us the way to the campsite, but personally chauffeured a couple of our adult leaders in his police truck. It was the end of the vacation season, so scouts also enjoyed steep discounts at the local shops, stocking up on food, candy, and souvenirs.
Of course, there was also some time carved out for working on scout skills and enjoying some quality camaraderie around the campfire. All in all, a very enjoyable and memorable trip that we will definitely plan again for next year!
BSA Scout Troop 376 - Somers, NY 