Nestled in the Northeast corner of Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania’s footprint, Camp Archbald is the second oldest Girl Scout camp in the world. Founded in 1920, the Kingsley, Pa., camp continues to thrive, with new additions and old traditions for the hundreds of girls who use the property year-round to camp, hike, and explore the outdoors.
“Camp Archbald is over 100 years old, and it continues to be enjoyed by girls of all ages,” said William “BJ” Folk, director of camp property for Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania. “With the help of the volunteer organization Supporters of Camp Archbald (SoCA), we are able to provide opportunities for girls to explore the world around them, challenge themselves, and make new friends while immersed in nature.”
The camp features boating and swimming on Lake Ely, as well as a climbing wall, a facilitated low ropes course, hiking trails, and archery.
In 2023, hundreds of girls participated in SoCA summer camp, enjoying overnight stays in onsite tents and other amenities. Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania also held day camp and family camps, offering access to the campgrounds for all ages.
Troops completed service projects at the camp, including Girl Scouts Giada and Gwen, who earned the highest award Cadette Girl Scouts can earn, the Silver Award, for refurbishing the Quiet Place on the property.
More than 70 Girl Scouts from kindergarteners to high school students explored space during a weekend program at Camp Archbald, where they visited a portable planetarium from Kopernik Observatory.
Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania and SoCA work together to promote the legacy of Camp Archbald. They want to ensure that future Girl Scouts, alumnae, supporters, families, and community members have access to the opportunities and resources at Camp Archbald. SoCA will operate 2024 summer resident camp programs in June.
Additional activities coming up this year at Camp Archbald include First Aid badge and babysitter certification days, archery and small watercraft training, a leader retreat weekend, and an Arts and Crafts Palooza.
To learn more about Camp Archbald, click here.
Written by Cathy Molitoris, Marketing Coordinator for Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania.