Camp Royce-Finel BSA Scout Camp

Hello, Oregon families, Scout leaders, and outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for a camping experience that combines rustic charm with ample opportunities for adventure and learning, Camp Royce-Finel BSA Scout Camp near Carnahan is a true hidden gem. This dedicated Boy Scouts of America (BSA) camp offers a unique environment for youth groups, but its serene setting and access to stunning natural features also make it an appealing destination for anyone who cherishes the spirit of traditional camping. For us Oregonians, who are privileged to live in a state brimming with natural wonders, finding a spot that fosters both skill-building and relaxation in a beautiful, natural setting is always a priority. Camp Royce-Finel delivers just that – a chance to connect with the outdoors, develop new skills, and create lasting memories.

Oregon's diverse landscapes range from the rugged Pacific coastline to dense forests and majestic mountains. Camp Royce-Finel, formerly known as Camp Cullaby, is nestled in a captivating wetland and nature preserve area, offering a distinct "close to town experience of the out of doors." This isn't a sprawling commercial campground with endless amenities; instead, it's a "great camp for year-round camping" designed to provide a more authentic and immersive outdoor education. Imagine waking up to the sounds of local wildlife, with the fresh Oregon air invigorating your senses, ready for a day of exploration or skill development.

What truly sets Camp Royce-Finel apart is its heritage as a BSA Scout Camp, named in memory of two long-time supporters of Scouting, John Royce of Seaside and John Finel of Astoria. This heritage means the camp is structured to promote outdoor education, leadership, and personal growth. While primarily serving Scouting units, its features are universally appealing to those who appreciate primitive camping. The camp offers "five primitive campsites, all have tables and approved fire rings" and "tarp shelter frames." Additionally, it boasts "kybos/portable bathrooms," an "open field for field game activities," and even "BB and archery ranges." The presence of an "obstacle course and nature trail to explore" further highlights its focus on engaging outdoor activities. The "small camp trading post for summer camp necessities and summertime delights" adds a touch of convenience. It's a place where the emphasis is on self-sufficiency and embracing the simplicity of nature, while still providing essential infrastructure for a rewarding experience.

Camp Royce-Finel BSA Scout Camp is located at 33WX+M6, Carnahan, OR 97146, USA. This places it in a picturesque area of Warrenton, Oregon, specifically at the northeast end of Cullaby Lake. This location is particularly advantageous as it sits between the popular coastal towns of Seaside and Astoria, offering a blend of secluded natural beauty with relatively easy access to coastal attractions and historical sites. For those traveling from the greater Portland metropolitan area, the drive to Carnahan takes you through scenic Western Oregon landscapes, culminating in the unique environment of the northern Oregon Coast.

Accessibility to Camp Royce-Finel is generally good, suitable for standard vehicles. However, it's important to note a unique aspect of its accessibility: "The majority of camp is accessible only in the summer by crossing a bridge to the meadow." This bridge is removed "in mid to late October due to the rain and water levels" and "is returned in the Spring usually around Mid-April, depending on the rain." This seasonal access detail is crucial for planning your visit. While the address provides a clear geographical point, campers should be aware of this bridge's seasonal status if planning a trip outside of peak summer months. Despite this, the year-round camping capability suggests that certain areas might remain accessible, or alternative access is provided during the bridge's absence. The camp's elevation is approximately 100ft, and its weather is usually "very good all year with the exceptions of winter storms."

The surrounding area offers a wealth of recreational and educational opportunities easily accessible from Camp Royce-Finel. Campers can "hike to the beach (2 miles)" for a quintessential Oregon Coast experience. History buffs will appreciate the proximity to "nearby Fort Clatsop National Park," a significant historical site related to the Lewis and Clark Expedition, along with "a myriad of other historical areas on the northern Oregon Coast." Cullaby Lake itself provides opportunities for water-based activities; campers are welcome to "bring canoes," though current swim and safety afloat cards are required. The blend of coastal hiking, historical exploration, and lake activities ensures that a stay at Camp Royce-Finel can be filled with diverse and engaging experiences for all ages and interests.

Services Offered:

• Primitive campsites (5 available)
• Den site shelters (with tarp shelter frames, tarps not included)
• Kybos/portable bathrooms
• Open field for field games
• BB and archery ranges
• Obstacle course
• Nature trail for exploration
• Small camp trading post (for summer camp necessities)
• Access to a stream (water can be used after boiling as there is "no water in camp")
• Fire rings and picnic tables at each site
• Year-round camping availability (with seasonal bridge access consideration)
• Canoeing/kayaking opportunities on Cullaby Lake (bring your own)

Features / Highlights:

• BSA Scout Camp Legacy: Rooted in the Boy Scouts of America tradition, focusing on outdoor education, skill development, and character building in a natural environment.
• Year-Round Camping: Offers opportunities for camping in all seasons, making it a flexible option for various group schedules, though seasonal bridge access to the main meadow should be noted.
• Primitive & Authentic Experience: Provides basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and portable bathrooms, encouraging self-sufficiency and a deeper connection with nature.
• Diverse Activities: Features on-site ranges (BB, archery), an obstacle course, and a nature trail, appealing to adventurous youth and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Proximity to Oregon Coast & History: Just a 2-mile hike from the beach and close to Fort Clatsop National Park and other historical sites, offering a blend of natural and cultural exploration.
• Secluded Wetland Setting: Located in a nature preserve near Cullaby Lake, providing a quiet and immersive natural environment for relaxation and wildlife observation.
• Max Occupancy 50: The camp is limited to a maximum of 50 individuals, ensuring a manageable group size and maintaining the peaceful atmosphere.

Contact Information:

Address: 33WX+M6, Carnahan, OR 97146, USA (Northeast end of Cullaby Lake, Warrenton, Oregon)

For specific contact information, as Camp Royce-Finel is managed by the Cascade Pacific Council of Scouting America, it is recommended to visit their official website or contact their main office.

General Inquiries: (503) 225-5777 or info@cpcscouting.org

Camping & Events: (503) 225-5701 or 492.camping@scouting.org

For life/death level emergencies during non-business hours, call (503) 225-5777 and follow the prompts.

For Oregon locals, Camp Royce-Finel BSA Scout Camp offers a distinctive and highly suitable outdoor experience, particularly for families involved in Scouting or those who appreciate a more traditional, primitive camping style. Its year-round availability, combined with its convenient location between Seaside and Astoria on the Northern Oregon Coast, makes it an accessible option for weekend trips or longer excursions without extensive travel from major population centers like Portland. This balance of natural seclusion and regional accessibility is a significant advantage for busy Oregonians.

The camp's focus on providing a structured yet adventurous outdoor experience, complete with ranges, an obstacle course, and nature trails, aligns perfectly with Oregon's active lifestyle. It offers a fantastic opportunity for youth development in a safe and engaging environment, while also serving as a peaceful retreat for adults. The unique seasonal bridge access adds to its charm, creating a sense of being truly "away from it all" when the main meadow is open. Furthermore, its proximity to both the stunning Oregon Coast and historically significant sites like Fort Clatsop provides a rich blend of recreational and educational opportunities right at your fingertips. Camp Royce-Finel isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of outdoor adventure and learning, inviting locals to create cherished memories in the heart of Oregon's beautiful coastal region.

Camp Royce-Finel BSA Scout Camp

33WX+M6, Carnahan, OR 97146, USA