Summer camp is an incredible opportunity for young people to make memories, learn new skills, and have fun in the great outdoors. Unfortunately, the cost of sending a Scout to summer camp can be prohibitive for many families. Perhaps there's little room in the budget this year, or maybe you're a single parent with two or more children in Scouting. Whatever the reason, with rising camp costs and surging inflation, you might be worrying about how you can afford to send your children to camp. Thankfully, there are several ways to secure scholarships, grants, and camperships to make this experience more affordable—especially in these trying times! If you're a parent looking for financial assistance to help send your Scout to summer camp, read on to learn more about some of the scholarship opportunities provided by Councils in the Scouting America.

1. Research and apply for scholarships
2. Seek out camperships 
3. Look for grants

There are a variety of scholarships available for Scouts who want to attend summer camp. For example, scouting organizations offer scholarships, while others are available through outside organizations. To find these scholarships, research online, ask your local council, or talk to other Scouting families. Once you find a scholarship your Scout is eligible for, carefully read the application requirements and instructions. Make sure to submit your application on time and include all required materials to maximize your chances of being awarded the scholarship. If you need help finding your local council, use the Local Council Locator on Scouting.org! There you'll be able to find your local council and get the important contact information to inquire about potential scholarships for your Scout. 

Camperships are scholarships that are offered explicitly by summer camps. These can be a great option for Scouts who want to attend a specific camp but need more money to afford the full cost. Some camps may require an application, while others may offer camperships on a first-come, first-served basis. To find camperships, contact the summer camp directly or check their website.

Various grants are available to help fund Scouting activities, including summer camp. Scouting organizations, local businesses, or community groups may offer these grants. To find grants, contact your local council or search online. Be sure to carefully read the requirements and instructions for applying, and make sure to submit your application on time.

With a little bit of research, it's possible to find and secure scholarships, camperships, and grants to help send your Scout to summer camp. By taking advantage of these resources, you can help ensure that your Scout has a fun and memorable summer camp experience without breaking the bank! If you're a Scouting parent on the lookout for a great deal on camping equipment, sign up for our email newsletter, where you'll get the latest deals delivered straight to your inbox. Whether you need to upgrade your Scouts uniform or find camping and hiking equipment for their adventures, visit ScoutShop.org—the official store of the Scouting America.