Cold Weather Camping
By Dr. Tom Long
Every troop should have a winter wilderness weekend on its calendar. Where is your troop going? If you are having any reservations, remember all of the complications of cold weather camping can happen on a balmy day on a 50-mile hike in any part of the rugged country of California. Be prepared!
Winter camping is different and it's fun. It's a great way to introduce Webelos to your troop and let these young Scouts see the kind of skills that Boy Scout learn. Be sure you have program. Recognize the Scout who is most creative in keeping warm. If there is just cold weather, plan an orienteering activity. Work on merit badge requirements. If there is snow, build shelters to meet wilderness survival requirements. Have a campfire and sing along with the coyotes. Plan Scout's Own and leave the campsite better than you found it.
Let's talk about cold weather camping first. The planning begins long before you set out for the mountains. Check with the forest ranger or the Park Service. Ask about permits, the availability of water, any restrictions and possibly a service project that the Scouts might perform. Menu planning is a key to every successful outing. Glass and cans are not designed to tolerate freezing temperatures. High calorie "secret recipe" soups make for nourishing meals and provide the extra energy you will all need.
Some Scouts may not have the necessary cold weather clothing. Temperatures in the Sierra can vary 30 degrees or more on a winter day. Denim jeans and cotton clothing should never be worn. Dress in layers with a wool outer layer to contain body heat and as the days get warm, dress down to reduce sweating. But the real key is staying dry - dry against the elements and consciously dressing to wick moisture away from the skin. Polypropylene undergarments are very effective. If you don't have gators and snow boots, plastic barriers may be necessary to keep moisture out such as plastic bags over socks before slipping into those hiking boots. Similarly a plastic sheet beneath the ground pad and a 20° sleeping bag should keep you warm and dry at night.
Cold weather camping just might turn into snow camping. Can you dig a snow cave or make a snow dome? Remember the days are short in the wintertime. Allow enough time to make shelters, prepare your meals and clean up. Hot chocolate around the campfire before lights out is just right for a bedtime snack. And don't hesitate to remind the Scouts that if they feel cold, "Put on a hat!" Lots of body heat is lost through the scalp. The best piece of lightweight gear is the old balaclava.
How about some backup measures? You always need a contact person at home. Leave a copy of your travel plans with that contact person. Check the car before you go - got chains? Take those 3-season tents along. If the snow gets wet or you run into damp weather they will be just fine for a night. Bring your ten essentials. In the elements of the wintertime drinking lots of fluids is another essential. The real spoiler on any outing is hypothermia. It can happen in any season but is more often expected on a cold weather outing. If you see someone who stumbles, fumbles and mumbles they are already too cold. Be prepared! Last of all, it's good idea to have the Scouts bring along some dry clothes just for the ride back home. After your return, share your stories and pictures at the next troop meeting.