With the recently announced changes in local health orders, we are updating guidelines for all Scouting activities in Bay-Lakes Council effective June 1, 2021.   This is an evolving situation and information is subject to change. We will continue to update you on relevant developments, and we appreciate your understanding of any necessary adjustments in the interest of health of safety.  We are looking forward to a fun and safe summer!

General Guidance

  • Vaccines are strongly encouraged for all who are eligible. Individuals are considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after receiving final required dose.
  • Individuals may choose to continue wearing face coverings even when it is not required.
  • Individuals experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and close contacts must still follow state guidelines for testing and isolation.
  • Some local and community orders may supersede these guidelines.

Unit Meetings & Activities

Unit leadership should follow local health guidelines and continue to practice social distancing in all Scouting activities.  Face coverings are no longer required in outdoor settings where social distancing is incorporated.  For indoor meetings and activities, face coverings are required for all youth and adults in attendance.  We encourage units to conduct meetings and activities outdoors this summer.

On campouts, we recommend that Scouts sleep one per tent.  Separate tenting arrangements must be provided for male and female adults as well as for male and female youth. Youth sharing tents must be no more than two years apart in age.  In Cub Scouting, parents and guardians may share a tent with their family. In all other programs, youth and adults tent separately.

For more information on in-person meeting safety, please visit the BSA’s COVID-19 FAQ.

Face Masks at Council Camps

While outdoors at camp, face masks are not required except for program areas which do not allow for social distancing or in other areas as instructed by the camp staff.  Face masks are required to be worn indoors including inside the dining hall and other camp buildings.  Adults who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear masks when attending leader meetings or trainings at camp.  Unvaccinated adults are encouraged to wear a mask to keep themselves and other campers safe.  If youth are present at a meeting or activity indoors, face masks should be worn by everyone.

Meals at Council Camps

Meals may be served cafeteria style in the dining halls.  Units or groups should be spaced apart from other units/groups. Outdoor dining is encouraged if the weather allows.

Health Assessments & Camp Cleaning

Council activities will continue to require the pre-event screening sheet.  Upon arriving at camp, this sheet will be reviewed by a member of the camp staff.  Camp staff will clean restrooms and high traffic areas during camp sessions.  Program equipment will be wiped down between classes and hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout camp.  We recommend all participants bring and use their own hand sanitizer and practice good handwashing hygiene. Bay-Lakes Council is following the CDC’s guidance for youth summer camps: Guidance for Operating Youth and Summer Camps.

Council Service Centers & Scout Shops

Effective June 1, face masks are no longer required for those who have been fully vaccinated when visiting the Bay-Lakes Council office or Scout Shop.  Unvaccinated visitors, including adults and children, should continue to wear a mask.

District & Council Meetings

District & Council meetings, trainings, and events are encouraged to be conducted outdoors this summer.  Attendees who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear masks during leader only meetings.  Those who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear a mask.  If youth are present at any indoor Scout meeting or activity, face masks should be worn by everyone.