Camp Shands (Baden-Powell Scout Reservation) is a Boy Scouts of America summer camp on 800+ acres in Hawthorne, operated by the North Florida Council. It hosts Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA and Venturing groups for summer resident camp packed with outdoor activities — archery, BB and rifle/pistol ranges, a climbing tower and lake canoeing. Programs are Scout-affiliated and largely overnight/residential.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Boy Scout Camp Shands-Aquatic Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
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★★★★★Thomas Lemrow JrCamp Shands has grown over the years. Now with their new state-of-the-art Aquatics Center the kids absolutely love it. Not to mention that they have a top-notch range complex that teaches the youth proper handling techniques with firearms, wrist rockets and archery. They even have an extreme obstacle course and an excellent cope course to help the youth to challenge themselves.
★★★★★EmOur Cub Scout has a great time here. The bathrooms are maintained well and the grounds are cleaned and safe.
★★★★★Steve ZachemAmazing, brand new facility. Not sure why Google have me the option to review both the camp and the pool separately, but I did find the rest of camp pales by comparison. They are gradually improving the entire camp, but it's going to take a little time.
★★★★★Ron TorbertMy son went to camp Shands for Boy Scout Winter Camp. Even though it was very cold the entire time, he had a blast. I even drove up for a day and did the polar plunge with him. They even have me a patch for doing it. He earned 6 merit badges while he was there. My son can't wait to go back this year for another week. He just hopes it's warm. Lol.
★★★★Chris McHoneThere for the weekend. I was not aware that the roads are made from chalk and that every single child would be kicking and stomping to make dust clouds. I had to cover my face and use my inhaler ALOT during our stay, BUT we had a great time. It was too rushed but it was fun. We will be attending again. My husband wants to start a go fund me campaign to get the roads paved or at least gravel laid to cut down on the dust issue. ;)