Rugged Adventurers

Rugged Adventurers

History

Rugged Adventurers is geared towards those Scouts that want to explore the wider world through programs that challenge scouts. Wander all throughout Catalina Island’s West End (Rugged E) and circumnavigate the island in war canoes (Rugged C). Geared to youth aged 14 to 21.

Catalina Island naturally lends itself to adventure. In fact, the history of Catalina is a history of human adventure. The Native American Pimu, Spanish pirates, ranchers, filmmakers, and the United States Navy have all called Catalina Island home at one time. Now you will explore this incredible island. Scouting has deep roots at Emerald Bay, the home of Rugged Adventurers. Camp Emerald Bay first gave Scouts an opportunity for adventure in 1925 and has been in continuous use ever since, except for when the U.S. Navy took over the site during World War II. The Navy returned to Emerald Bay by way of Dick Rice, who served as Camp Director of Emerald Bay in 1950. Just prior to serving as a staff member at Emerald Bay, Dick served with the Navy’s elite Underwater Demolition Teams, which are now known as U.S. Navy SEALs. Drawing on his experience as a commando, Dick helped to design a program involving beach reconnaissance, patrolling, and teamwork for older Scouts known as Rugged E. Over the years, the program elements have evolved, but the spirit of adventure remains. Today there are five exciting programs in Rugged Adventurers. How many will you complete?

Check out the Rugged Leader Guide to answer most, if not all your questions about the Rugged Programs. If you have further questions, please email the Camp Emerald Bay Program Director at [email protected]. Visit our Forms and Documents page and Frequently Asked Questions to see other material to prepare for your visit to Camp Emerald Bay.

All participants must complete the BSA Medical Form prior to camp

All SCUBA participants (Rugged S, Rugged O and Rugged R) must complete the PADI Questionnaire before coming to camp

Explorers

Rugged ‘E’: As Rugged Explorers, you are challenged to experience a little bit of everything. You will lead your crew up one of the highest peaks on Catalina Island, soar down hills on a unique mountain biking endeavor, cruise through crystal waters in a canoe, and spend many starlit nights on beaches around the island.

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Canoe

Rugged ‘C’: As Rugged Canoers you will navigate an eight-person war canoe through ocean swells and breaking surf on a canoeing expedition around the island. You will explore some of Catalina’s hidden snorkeling spots and lead your team past magnificent palisades for stunning panoramic views.

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Trek

Rugged ‘T’: As Rugged Trekkers you will hike the Trans-Catalina Trail, starting at the most West End on Monday and making your way to the busy city of Avalon by Friday. The trail covers 38.5 miles and allows you a higher chance of seeing some of the Island’s wildlife not commonly seen in camp: Bison, Bald Eagles and Catalina Island Fox. Participants must be 14 years old by the time they are in camp and must have completed the Rugged Explorers program prior to Rugged T

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