Wilderness Tenting 

Nobscot Scout Reservation offers many excellent designated tenting areas, but some of the most memorable camping experiences come from Wilderness Tenting. This style of camping allows your unit to select its own campsite in the forest, far from developed areas, while practicing the principles of Leave No Trace™.

With over 450 acres of highlands, lowlands, and diverse ecosystems, Nobscot is an ideal place to challenge Scouts with backcountry camping. Unlike cabins, lean-tos, or mapped tent sites, Wilderness Sites are not marked or published—your Scouts will discover them for themselves.

The adventure lies in exploration, responsibility, and leaving no evidence of your stay.

🏕️ What is Wilderness Tenting?

• A self-selected campsite, chosen by your unit, that is not shown on the Nobscot map.

• Located out of sight of trails, cabins, and other groups.

• Limited in size: one patrol only (12 people max, including adults).

• Restored completely before you leave—there should be no sign that you were ever there.

Because these areas are fragile, Wilderness Tenting requires a trained leader or youth with at least 8 hours of Leave No Trace™ instruction.

🏕️ Why Wilderness Tenting?

• Gives Scouts the thrill of discovery and self-reliance.

• Builds advanced outdoor skills and leadership.

• Encourages deeper respect for the environment.

• Provides a true “backcountry” experience without leaving Nobscot.
  
  

📋 Guidelines for Wilderness Camping in Nobscot

All Wilderness Tenting units must:

• Have one adult or youth trained in Leave No Trace™ (8 hours minimum). Visit Mayflower Council website for training schedules

• Notify the Campmaster or Ranger of your site location (GPS coordinates preferred).

• Follow all 7 Leave No Trace™ principles (explained below).

• Keep group size small (12 max).

• Use existing fire pits only if you build a campfire—otherwise use stoves. Never create a new fire ring.

• Follow the 5 D’s of Firewood: use wood that is Dead, Down, Dinky (small), Distant (collected away from camp), and Dispersed.

• Arrive before dark or use a designated site unless prior arrangements are made.

• Disperse ashes properly—away from camps, trails, and water.

• Restore your site before leaving: remove all signs of use.

🧭 Wilderness Tenting Areas at Nobscot

For advanced and experienced campers, two larger backcountry regions are available for Wilderness Tenting. Both require a steep hike and offer a truly remote experience.

1. The Backcountry
Located around and between: Cabins 21, 26, 29, Five Corners, Hilltop, Squanto, Old Cabin 23 ,and F.E.L. Memorial

2. The Northwest Territory
Generally west or northwest of the Backcountry: West/Northwest of Tipling Rock, North of the F.E.L. Memorial, and Near Cole Pass Trail

🚰 Amenities & Environment

• Unmarked and undeveloped

• Far from latrines and water pumps

• Steep and remote — best suited for strong outdoor skills