In 2020, the COVID-19 virus, an infectious disease found its way to the United States. Most people who have had COVID-19 have had mild symptoms. Due to this virus, 2020 became a challenging year for the Boy Scouts as well as the State of Ohio and the entire United States.

Before the pandemic struck, I volunteered to lead the Mohican Wilderness Canoeing Weekend Campout. The first obstacle was trying to figure out if we would be able to plan this event. After many phone calls, research, and convincing the committee, it was determined I would be able to plan this event. However, this would definitely not be a normal Boy Scout camp out due to new Pandemic Rules enacted by the State of Ohio and new Boy Scout rules. The camp out would have to be changed to a canoeing day trip.

I started planning the day trip and contacting Scouts and their parents. Scouts were not allowed to eat as a group and had to bring their own meals. Due to another pandemic rule, Scouts were not allowed to car pool. The campground was 72 miles away. That meant each parent would have to drive 1 1/2 hours each way to drop off and pick up their child. This led to parents bringing the rest of their families and spending the night. This was in accordance with the State issued “Camp Safe Ohio” order.

The Scout day trip was a success. We took a 10 mile canoe adventure down the river enjoying all the natural scenery this park has to offer. Even though the park had reduced capacity due to the pandemic, it seemed at times the river was canoe to canoe and the Scouts thoroughly enjoyed watching and laughing at strangers trying to navigate their own canoes down the river…

Even though the Scout Event ended later that afternoon, most parents decided to stay the weekend and camp out with their families.

Mohican Wilderness Photo Album