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Every year, Scouts and volunteers donate thousands of hours improving our beloved camp properties. Whether it’s trail maintenance, conservation efforts, or construction, your service ensures a better experience for all.

Bear Creek Scout Camp Needs Your Support: A Call to Action After Unprecedented Flooding

Together, We Can Restore a Cherished Home for Scouting in Alamo Area Council

Bear Creek Scout Camp, a beloved property owned and operated by the Alamo Area Council, stands as a symbol of adventure, leadership, and community for generations of Scouts in our region. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Kerr County, Bear Creek has long been a place where youth learn essential skills, form lifelong friendships, and develop a deep respect for the outdoors. Today, this camp that has given so much to so many faces an urgent crisis, and we are reaching out to you—our extended Scout family and friends—for your support.

The Aftermath of Kerr County Flooding

Recently, Kerr County experienced severe flooding that left a mark on the land and the lives of its residents. Bear Creek Scout Camp was not spared. Our emergency procedures are in place, reviewed regularly and Alamo Area Council avoided any personal impact from this weather event.  While our spirit remains unbroken, the physical toll on the camp has been significant. The storm unleashed heavy rains, causing widespread water flow across the property and leaving its mark on the property.

Road Damage

Our camp’s roadways—vital arteries for access, transportation, and emergency response—have suffered substantial damage. Washed out sections, deep ruts, and crumbling shoulders now make it difficult and, in some areas, unsafe to traverse the camp. Many of these roads provide access to key program areas, campsites, and critical infrastructure. Without immediate attention and repair, our ability to safely host Scouts, leaders, and families is severely compromised.

Runoff and Debris from Cliff Walls

The force of the water flow triggered heavy runoff from the camp’s majestic cliff walls. Sheets of water cascaded down, carrying with them large quantities of rock and organic debris. These deposits have created wash areas that cut through trails and open spaces, scattering stone and debris across the landscape. Some paths are now impassable; others are dangerously eroded. The natural beauty of Bear Creek has been marred, but with your help, it can be restored.

Downed Trees and Accumulated Debris

Throughout the camp, countless trees have fallen or been left leaning precariously, their roots undermined by soaked soil or battered by the flood. Branches, logs, and brush now block roads, trails, and gathering areas. In addition, debris from the flood—both natural and man-made—has become lodged in creek beds, program sites, and the heart of our camp. Removing these obstacles is essential not only for safety but also for reclaiming the inviting, open spaces that are hallmarks of Bear Creek.

Destruction of the Natural Swimming Area

One of Bear Creek’s most treasured features has always been the natural swimming area—a place where Scouts cool off on hot summer days, practice lifesaving skills, and make joyful memories. Today, this area has been impacted by tons of rock and fine silt, filling in the swimming hole, smothering the once-clear waters and rendering it unusable. Restoring this space will require significant effort and resources, but it is essential to the camp’s future and the experience of every Scout who visits.

Why Bear Creek Matters

Bear Creek Scout Camp is more than just a property—it is a living legacy. For generations, it has served as the backdrop to countless stories of personal growth, camaraderie, and connection with nature. The lessons learned and the memories made at Bear Creek shape the lives of young people, instilling the values of Scouting: trustworthiness, loyalty, helpfulness, and bravery.

To preserve the magic of Bear Creek for current and future Scouts, we must act quickly and decisively. The challenges before us are daunting, but we know that the strength of our community is greater than any flood.

How You Can Help: A Call to Action

Restoring Bear Creek to its full glory will require a tremendous outpouring of support from volunteers, donors, and friends near and far. We invite you to join us in this important mission in the following ways:

Volunteer Labor

We need helping hands and strong backs! Volunteers are essential for clearing debris, removing downed trees, repairing trails, and restoring campsites. Whether you can spare a few hours or dedicate entire weekends, your contribution will make a direct and meaningful impact. Scouting units, civic groups, local businesses, and individuals—all are welcome. Together, we can accomplish what no single person could do alone.

• • • Organize or join a work crew to tackle specific projects
    • Bring tools, equipment, and expertise—chainsaws, trucks, shovels, and more are needed
    • Help with food preparation, logistics, and support for volunteers
    • Spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues who may wish to help

Monetary Donations

While volunteer labor is invaluable, the scale of repairs now required at Bear Creek will demand significant financial resources. Road reconstruction, heavy equipment rental, professional services, and materials all come at a cost. Your monetary gift—no matter the size—will directly support critical repairs and infrastructure improvements, ensuring that Bear Creek can safely and fully reopen as soon as possible.

• • • Donations can be made directly to the Alamo Area Council, designated for Bear Creek Scout Camp recovery efforts
    • Consider making a one-time contribution or setting up recurring support
    • Employer matching and community fundraising campaigns can multiply your impact

Every dollar received will go toward restoring roads, clearing debris, rebuilding the swimming area, and making Bear Creek whole once more. If you have contacts in the construction, landscaping, or outdoor recreation industries, please connect us with those who might lend their resources and expertise.

Join Us in Rebuilding Bear Creek

The road ahead will not be easy, but with your help, Bear Creek Scout Camp will rise stronger than ever. We ask you to remember what this camp has meant to you, your family, and your community—and to offer whatever support you can at this time of great need.

Whether you volunteer your time, donate funds, or simply share this message, you are part of the Bear Creek story. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and look forward to welcoming you back to a restored, revitalized, and resilient Bear Creek Scout Camp.

Together, let’s ensure that the spirit of Scouting continues to thrive in the heart of Kerr County. Thank you for your support!

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