Manresa Beach Overnight - May 6-7, 2023

Manresa Beach Overnight - May 6-7, 2023

• Attendance: 29 Scouts; 15 ASMs/Adults

• Location:  Manresa Uplands State Beach & Campground

• Description: Laid back camping trip after all the Scouts' hard work at Camporee!

After driving through rain, Scouts arrived at Manresa Uplands State Beach, which is a state-protected beach in Santa Cruz County. The excited campers got there around noon and enjoyed the dramatic views of the ocean from the cliffside. The beach was easily accessed from our campsite with a paved ramp.

Scouts took advantage of their free time on the mostly deserted stretch of sand, eating their pre-packed lunches. Despite the chilly weather, it was an idyllic setting for hanging out with friends. Scouts took walks, read books, and played volleyball. The day was well spent bonding with fellow Scouts, including Moraga Troop 246 who were also camping nearby.

The sun began to emerge from behind the clouds as Scouts headed back to the campsite to prepare dinner. A plethora of squirrels and bunnies were scattered throughout the area. Patrols began making dinner and setting up tents. After the Scouts finished eating their meals and cleaning up, the Troop headed back to the beach. One ASM, Mr. Fukayama, collected firewood and built a magnificent bonfire for both Troop 246 and Troop 402 to huddle around for warmth. Each patrol performed skits, and Aya shared an entertaining Shaggy Dog story. To end the night, Caitlyn shared her ukulele skills while everyone sang "Riptide" by Vance Joy.

The next morning, Scouts woke up and prepared delicious breakfasts. Everyone packed up and headed back over Highway 17 to return to the East Bay hills. And that was it for another awesome Scouting overnight!

[One Scout campsite all set up]

[Entrance to Manresa Beach]

[Adult fondue table]

[Scouts relaxing on a tree]

[Scouts preparing dinner]

[Red Panda patrol eating their scrumptious dinner]

[A mole popping out of the ground to say hello!]

[Manresa beach at sunset]

[Troop 402 and 246 around the campfire singing]

Tips for next year:

• Lots of squirrels and ground animals, so make sure to put food away in lockers!
• There's a drop off/unloading zone, but you have to park in a separate lot ($10 per car)

Blog post written by Finley Cattell, 402G Troop Scribe