2025/2026 Blackhawk Area Council OKPIK
Cold Weather Camping Course - Train the Trainer

Okpik Cold Weather Camping Training for Cub Scout adults, Scouts BSA and Venturing adults and youth ages 14 and up.

The Train the Trainer program provides you the knowledge and materials to conduct cold weather camping within your units. This program covers the skills and techniques needed to ensure a successful, fun, and safe cold weather camping experience. These include physical preparation, clothing, food & water, sanitation, first aid and emergency procedures, shelter building, traveling in snow, and making equipment. Cold weather camping mistakes can be deadly. The skills learned in the Okpik Course will make cold weather camping an enjoyable, safe Scouting experience.

TRAIN THE TRAINER

To provide a train the trainer opportunity to Scout leaders and experienced youth in the unique skills of winter camping. The intent of this course is to help Packs, Troops and Crews extend their camping season to all 12 months of the year. It is expected that the participants of this course will go back to their units and share the knowledge and skills learned in this course. Because of this, the course is limited to adults and mature youth. Youth must be at least 14 years old, approved by their unit leader and the Course Director.

Dates & Times:

• November 8, 2025 (Classroom, 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM) - Camp Lowden (4418 S. Scout Road, Oregon, IL)
• December 13, 2025 (Classroom, 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM) - Camp Lowden (4418 S. Scout Road, Oregon, IL)
• January 10, 2026 (Classroom, 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM) - Camp Lowden (4418 S. Scout Road, Oregon, IL)
• January 31 - February 1, 2026 (Practical ) - Camp Lowden (4418 S. Scout Road, Oregon, IL)

All three Classroom sessions and a practical outdoor campout are required to complete the course.
If you have any questions please contact Okpik@blackhawkscouting.org.

Course Fee:

Early Registration fee $142 if paid in full by end of 9/30/25

On 10/1/25, regular rate of $162 is applied

(participants should plan for additional food and gear costs)
Make Checks Payable to: Blackhawk Area Council

For more information, visit www.blackhawkscouting.org/training/advanced-training/okpik