National Jamboree 2023 – Forward!!

July 19-28, 2023

Scouting’s Flagship event is one-of-a-kind. It’s a gathering of approximately 40,000 Scouts, leaders, and staff that showcases everything that is great about the BSA and its members.  Held every four years, the Jamboree is an amazing opportunity for participants, volunteers, and visitors to experience the best of Scouting, all in one place.  Features include; one of the longest zip line courses in North America, a world-class skate park, ATV offerings, treetop canopy tours, rock climbing, patch trading, stadium shows, and much more!

History of the National Jamboree

The First Boy Scouts of America national jamboree was scheduled to be held in Washington, D.C., in 1935 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Scouting in America. Unfortunately, the jamboree was canceled because of a polio outbreak in Washington. When the first jamboree was finally held in 1937, Dan Beard lit the opening campfire using flint and steel. Scouts from all 48 states brought the wood that was used in the campfire. There were 27,232 Scouts camped on the National Mall under the Washington Monument. Since that time, an additional 18 national jamborees have been held, the last in 2017.

The SUMMIT Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve

In 2009, the BSA purchased 10,600 acres of property adjacent to West Virginia’s New River Gorge National River area in order to create the Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve. The Summit hast hosted the past two National Jamboree’s and was the site of the 2019 World Jamboree.  The Summit will be the site for action, adventure, and an opportunity for scouts from all over the world to gather in 2023.

Minsi Trails Council National Jamboree Contingent

Our Council is sending one full Scouts BSA Boy Troop consisting of 36 scouts and 4 adult leaders and 2 Scouts BSA Girl Patrols consisting of 16 scouts and 4 adult leaders.  For more information and registration instructions please download the Council Contingent Application form 

Questions – Bill Folk or Brian Dungan