Scouts prepare for 2013 jamboree
The Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia.

Scouts prepare for 2013 jamboree

Boy Scouts from across the country are anxiously counting down the days until July 15, 2013. On that day, they will embark on an outdoor adventure at The Summit Bechtel Family Reserve — the new permanent home of the National Scout Jamboree.

The Summit Bechtel Reserve, better known as "The Summit," is a former coal mining site located between Beckley and Glen Jean, W. Va., and is one of four facilities managed by the National Council of Boy Scouts of America (BSA). BSA expects nearly 40,000 Scouts and unit leaders to attend the 2013 jamboree, July 15-24, where their physical stamina will be put to the test by The Summit. BSA emphasizes to participating applicants that unlike prior jamboree locations, The Summit is a "physically demanding experience." So to ensure those attending are prepared for the rigorous challenge, they will be required to meet the jamboree’s physical fitness policy found here.

Meanwhile, for 10 days Boy Scouts’ will explore The Summit’s 10,600 acres by participating in an array of activities such as shooting sports, archery, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking and aquatics. Additionally, each Scout unit will participate in a service project held within a southern West Virginia community. The community service hours accumulated from the young men, and as many as 10,000 volunteers, is estimated to be 300,000.

For registration specifics, an overview of The Summit and extensive details about the 2013 National Scout Jamboree, visit www.summitbechtelreserve.org. And stay updated on jamboree news and events by becoming a fan of The Summit Bechtel Reserve Facebook page.