Camp Urland, Three Rivers BSA

For Texans who cherish the rugged beauty of the wilderness and the spirit of outdoor adventure, Camp Urland, managed by the Three Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America (BSA), offers an unparalleled experience. Located in the deeply forested, rugged terrain of East Texas, specifically near Woodville, this nearly 400-acre property is designed for those who seek a genuine primitive camping and backpacking experience. Unlike commercial campgrounds with extensive amenities, Camp Urland focuses on low-impact wilderness camping, providing an ideal setting for developing outdoor skills and fostering a profound connection with nature.

The vast and diverse landscapes of Texas offer a myriad of camping opportunities, from coastal retreats to mountainous hideaways. Camp Urland stands out as a unique destination for its commitment to a more traditional, "back to basics" approach to outdoor living. It’s a place where the rustle of leaves and the call of wildlife replace the sounds of modern life, inviting visitors to truly immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Pineywoods. While its primary purpose is to serve the Scouting program, its characteristics make it an appealing option for any experienced outdoor enthusiast in Texas looking for a true wilderness challenge.

The Boy Scouts of America, and specifically the Three Rivers Council, are dedicated to preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Camp Urland serves as a crucial outdoor laboratory for this mission, offering a challenging yet rewarding environment where Scouts can learn self-reliance, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for conservation. The emphasis on primitive camping means there are no defined campsites or structures on the property, and water is not readily available, encouraging true wilderness survival skills and responsible outdoor practices.

As we delve deeper into the specifics of Camp Urland, you’ll discover why its unique features and ethos make it a remarkable resource for the Texas community. We'll cover its exact location and how to access this rugged retreat, discuss the type of experiences it offers, highlight its distinct advantages for Scouting programs, and provide essential contact information for planning your visit. While it's primarily a Scouting facility, understanding its nature is crucial for any local who might consider its use for group activities or simply appreciates such a valuable resource in their state.

The spirit of adventure is alive and well at Camp Urland, where the focus is not on luxurious amenities but on the raw, unfiltered experience of the outdoors. It's a place where challenges lead to growth, and every campfire tells a story. For Texans who believe in the transformative power of the wilderness, Camp Urland stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional camping and the valuable lessons it imparts.

Camp Urland, managed by the Three Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America, is strategically located in the dense forests of East Texas. While the general area is near Woodville, Texas 75979, USA, it's important to note that the specific location within the nearly 400 acres is characterized by its rugged terrain, providing a truly immersive wilderness experience. For those accustomed to established campgrounds with clear signage and easy paved access, Camp Urland presents a different kind of journey.

The camp’s address is typically associated with the Three Rivers Council office, which is generally 1170 Spring Valley Drive, Woodville, TX 75979. However, accessing the actual camping areas within Camp Urland often involves navigating less developed roads. Directions might specify continuing on unpaved roads after the pavement ends, eventually leading to the entrance gate. High-clearance vehicles are generally recommended for reaching the interior parts of the camp, especially during or after inclement weather, ensuring a smoother journey for visitors.

Camp Urland is situated within the broader East Texas region, known for its extensive pine forests, diverse wildlife, and numerous waterways. This geographical context means that while the camp itself is primitive, it's also a gateway to further exploration of the natural beauty that East Texas has to offer, including nearby lakes, rivers, and state parks. The isolation of the camp contributes to its appeal as a true wilderness escape, offering a stark contrast to more developed recreational areas.

Given its nature as a primitive camp, there are no immediate commercial establishments right at the entrance. Visitors should plan to acquire all necessary supplies, including water, food, and other provisions, before arriving at the camp. Woodville, the nearest significant town, offers essential services like gas stations, grocery stores, and basic medical facilities, making it the ideal last stop for supplies before heading into the camp. This preparation is crucial for a safe and comfortable stay, aligning with the self-reliant ethos of primitive camping.

The lack of specific landmarks or paved roads within the camp emphasizes its commitment to low-impact wilderness camping. This means visitors should rely on detailed maps, GPS coordinates (if available from the council), and clear directions from the Three Rivers Council to navigate the property effectively. The ruggedness of the terrain, while challenging, is also a key part of the adventure, offering opportunities for orienteering and advanced outdoor skills development.

Camp Urland, being a primitive wilderness camp, operates with a different set of "services" compared to typical commercial campgrounds. Its offerings are geared towards fostering self-reliance and outdoor skills within a natural setting, rather than providing extensive modern conveniences.

• Primitive-Style Camping: The core service offered is access to nearly 400 acres of heavily forested, rugged terrain for primitive-style camping. This means there are no defined campsites with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, or designated pads. Campers select their own sites within the wilderness, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.
• Backpacking Opportunities: The extensive and rugged terrain is perfect for backpacking. The camp provides opportunities for Scouts and groups to plan multi-day treks, honing their navigation, wilderness survival, and low-impact camping skills.
• No Water Availability: A crucial aspect of its primitive nature is the lack of potable water sources on the property. Visitors are required to bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. This reinforces the importance of self-sufficiency in the wilderness.
• No Structures: Beyond possibly a gate or very basic signage, there are no permanent structures, buildings, or restrooms on the property. Campers must be prepared for a fully self-contained experience, including proper waste disposal (pack it in, pack it out).
• Low-Impact Wilderness Use: The camp promotes and requires adherence to low-impact camping principles. This includes proper waste disposal, minimizing impact on vegetation, and leaving no trace of your visit, ensuring the natural environment is preserved for future users.
• Programmatic Use for Scouts: While specific public services are minimal, the "service" of Camp Urland truly shines through its dedicated use for Boy Scouts of America programs. It serves as a living laboratory for merit badge work, leadership development, and teaching essential outdoor skills like wilderness survival, orienteering, and conservation to young people. Specific programs, like the "Mountain Man Program" at Winter Camp, offer living history experiences focused on pre-1840 fur trade life, emphasizing primitive camping skills, outdoor cooking, and self-sufficiency.

Camp Urland's unique features and highlights stem directly from its primitive nature and its purpose within the Scouting program.

• Nearly 400 Acres of Wilderness: The sheer size of the property allows for true immersion in nature, offering vast space for exploration, solitude, and extended wilderness activities away from crowds.
• Heavily Forested, Rugged Terrain: The challenging landscape, characterized by dense forests and varied topography, provides an authentic backdrop for developing advanced outdoor skills and resilience. It's ideal for those seeking a less manicured outdoor experience.
• Perfect for Low-Impact Wilderness Camping and Backpacking: This is a core highlight. The camp is specifically designed for experiences where campers minimize their environmental footprint, practice self-reliance, and engage with the wilderness in a respectful and sustainable manner.
• Primitive-Style Camping with No Defined Campsites: The absence of marked sites encourages campers to select their own spots, promoting adaptable camping practices and a deeper understanding of terrain and environmental impact.
• Focus on Outdoor Skill Development: For Scouts, Camp Urland is a prime location for working on outdoor-related merit badges and rank requirements, including camping, backpacking, wilderness survival, navigation, and pioneering.
• Challenging and Rewarding Experience: As described in Scouting program materials, activities here are often "physically and mentally tough," yet "very rewarding," building character, perseverance, and confidence.
• Dedicated to Scouting Programs: The camp's primary identity as a Scouting facility means its design and use are optimized for youth development programs, fostering leadership, ethics, and outdoor proficiency within the BSA framework.
• Opportunity for Self-Sufficiency: The lack of on-site water or structures necessitates comprehensive planning and self-reliance, reinforcing critical survival and preparedness skills.

As a property of the Three Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America, Camp Urland does not typically offer "promotions" in the commercial sense (like discounts for the general public or seasonal sales). Its use is primarily governed by the policies and fee structures of the BSA for its registered units and members. However, there are inherent "offers" in how the camp is utilized by the Scouting community:

• Affordable Access for Scouting Units: Compared to private commercial campgrounds, the fees for Scouting units (youth and adult participants) to utilize BSA camp properties are generally designed to be very reasonable. These fees contribute to the maintenance and operational costs of the camp, ensuring its continued availability for Scouting programs.
• Access for Registered Members: The primary "special offer" is the exclusive access provided to registered members of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America), including Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Exploring units. This access is a direct benefit of membership and participation in the Scouting program.
• Programmatic Opportunities: The camp facilitates a range of specialized programs, such as Winter Camp, which might include unique themes like the "Mountain Man Program." These programs offer an immersive, educational, and challenging experience that is a "special offer" in terms of unique youth development.
• Annual Pass Benefits (for BSA-specific uses): While not a general public pass, registered Scouting leaders and members benefit from their membership which allows them to participate in programs and use facilities like Camp Urland at designated rates set by the council.

For specific rates, reservation procedures, and eligibility, interested Scouting units or potential members should directly contact the Three Rivers Council, BSA. Information regarding fees for in-council vs. out-of-council units, and specific program costs, would be provided directly by the council office.

For detailed information regarding Camp Urland, including reservation procedures, current fees, and specific access instructions, it is best to contact the Three Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America directly. As Camp Urland is a BSA-owned and operated facility, all inquiries are handled through the council office.

Three Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America

Address (Council Office): 4650 Cardinal Drive, Beaumont, TX 77705

Phone: (409) 842-5240

Website: 3riversbsa.org (It is highly recommended to visit their official website for the most up-to-date information, resources, and contact methods, including staff directories for specific departments like outdoor programs or camping.)

When contacting, be sure to specify your interest in Camp Urland and the nature of your inquiry (e.g., unit camping, program information, etc.) to ensure you are directed to the appropriate staff member.

For Texans, particularly those involved in Scouting or seeking a true wilderness experience, Camp Urland represents an invaluable local resource. It’s not your typical commercial campground, but rather a vital training ground and a sanctuary for genuine outdoor adventure, perfectly suited to the unique spirit of our state.

Firstly, for the countless families across Texas with children involved in Scouting, Camp Urland is fundamental to their development. This nearly 400-acre tract of rugged, heavily forested land provides the authentic environment necessary for Scouts to truly learn and apply essential outdoor skills. From mastering primitive camping techniques and wilderness survival to engaging in demanding backpacking expeditions, the camp fosters resilience, self-reliance, and leadership – qualities deeply valued in Texas. It's a place where young Texans can step away from screens and connect with the land, understanding conservation and personal responsibility in a hands-on manner that structured classrooms simply cannot replicate. The programs offered here, such as the unique "Mountain Man Program," go beyond mere recreation, offering a living history experience that roots participants in the outdoor heritage of our nation.

Secondly, for any local Texan or outdoor group seeking a truly primitive and low-impact camping experience, Camp Urland offers a unique alternative to more developed state parks or private campgrounds. If you are an experienced backpacker, a survival skills enthusiast, or an outdoor educator looking for a large, undeveloped tract of land to practice and teach, this camp provides the perfect setting. The absence of defined campsites, structures, and even readily available water challenges participants to be fully self-sufficient and practice strict Leave No Trace principles. This is ideal for those who feel other campgrounds are too "glamorous" and yearn for a more challenging and authentic connection with nature.

Moreover, the existence of Camp Urland as a part of the Three Rivers Council, BSA, highlights a commitment to youth development and outdoor education within our communities. While not a public park in the traditional sense, its impact on the youth of East Texas, equipping them with vital life skills and a deep respect for the environment, benefits the entire local community. It helps cultivate a generation of responsible citizens and competent outdoorsmen who can appreciate and protect Texas's natural heritage.

In essence, Camp Urland is suitable for Texans not just as a geographical location, but as a testament to the enduring values of self-reliance, outdoor adventure, and youth development that resonate deeply within our state. It provides an unmatched opportunity for immersive wilderness experiences, making it a cornerstone for Scouting and an essential resource for those who truly embrace the wild heart of Texas.