RECORD BREAKING EVENT FOR OUR 7th SWAMP-O-REE!

With an astounding 350 participants, we are ecstatic about sharing the amazing time that Troops from Missouri, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana were able to experience in the swamp! This one-of-a-kind program activities, immersive staff members, and active participants truly helped take this year’s event to the next level. Thank you to everyone who attended!

The programs offered at Swamp-o-ree are uniquely tailored to ensure that participating Scouts get both an educational and an active experience they are sure to remember! With events such as swamp tours led by a local captain, guided canoe trips, yard games featuring 9 Square in the Air, our original “Trek Guide Challenge”, and one on one experience with our baby alligators; Swamp-o-ree offers whatever floats your canoe!

The swamp tours were provided by our partner company, McGee’s Swamp and Airboat Tours. Using large, slow-moving boats gave scouts the opportunity to relax, take in their surroundings, and learn about the Atchafalaya Swamp from one of our local boat Captains. This year, all 350 participants experienced the swamp firsthand through one of the swamp tours!

In addition to the swamp tours, an astonishing 330 participants enjoyed a guided canoe trip! For this event, we had the privilege of offering both a 3-mile and a 6-mile paddle, perfect for including both beginner and intermediate paddlers. These trips were guided by our very own “Preaux Staff” trek guides-individuals who have worked for our summer high adventure program.

Our program field was home to a numerous number of activities to fit the interests of every participant. Games like 9 Square in the Air, and various Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience (COPE) activities were enjoyed by all.

The unique “Trek Guide Challenge” offered scored activities ranging from Leave No Trace quizzes, local fish identification, First Aid practices, fast packing activities, and timed canoe races.  The Scouts with the overall highest points was then awarded as the winners of our the challenge.  

As much fun as the challenge was, the baby alligators stole the show! These little ambassadors of the swamp helped educate youth on the importance of breaking negative stereotypes, and the diversity that surrounds the Atchafalaya Swamp ecosystem. Inquisitive Scouts and adult leaders were encouraged to handle, take pictures, and ask questions about the gators.

We would like to extend a big thank you to each participant that joined us this year for our record-breaking event! We are excited to see both old and new friends at our next Swamp-o-ree being held on March 21st, 2026!