Our adventure to Camp Oljato kicked off early on July 28, with everyone meeting at Chadbourne Elementary School at 7:30 AM. The morning was buzzing with excitement as we checked our gear, making sure we had everything needed for the week ahead. From sleeping bags to sunscreen, nothing was overlooked. We also handed in our money envelopes, which would cover any camp expenses. By 8:15 AM, we were all packed up and on the road, ready for the journey that lay ahead.
The drive to Camp Oljato was long, but we broke it up with a lunch stop at Pan-American Park. As we pulled in, you could feel the anticipation in the air. We ate our packed lunches, stretched our legs, and talked about what we were most excited to do at camp. It was a nice break in the drive and gave us a chance to relax before heading into the final stretch. We knew that in just a few more hours, we’d be diving into a week full of activities and new experiences.
Once we arrived at Camp Oljato, we jumped straight into camp life. After setting up our tents and getting settled, we headed straight to take our swim tests in Lake Huntington, one of the main features of Oljato that makes it so unique. Another one of the highlights was the Star Float, where we took a barge out into the middle of Lake Huntington at night. Floating on the calm water, we looked up at the stars and the Milky Way while our guide, Audrey, pointed out constellations and shared the stories behind them. Out on the lake, with no city lights around, the stars felt so much closer, and it was a moment of pure awe that I think we all felt deeply.
Of course, not everything at Camp Oljato was so peaceful. Some of us decided to take on the challenge of tubing on the lake. A speedboat pulled us on inflatable tubes, zigzagging across the water and trying to throw us off. It was a wild ride, full of laughter and thrills, as most of us ended up splashing into the lake. Tubing was an absolute blast, offering a perfect contrast to the calmness of the Star Float. Between the adrenaline-pumping activities and the moments of quiet reflection, Camp Oljato gave us an experience that balanced fun and learning, leaving us with memories that will stick with us long after our scouting journey ends.
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