Scouts Gather in Clovis for 2025 Spring Camporee

from the desk of Jessica Siddall

Nearly 50 scouts from across the Conquistador Council in southeastern New Mexico gathered at Ned Houk Park in Clovis from April 12–14 for the 2025 Spring Camporee.

On Saturday morning, Scouts competed in seven skill stations as troops, demonstrating their scouting knowledge and learning new techniques. At two pioneering stations, they built a table and a dishwashing station using wooden poles and rope lashings. In the first aid stations, scouts assessed emergency scenes and raced to perform various rescue carries.

Fire-building contests tested their ability to quickly construct a tall fire to burn through jute twine—first using matches, then flint and steel. Another challenge required them to ignite a fire using a 9-volt battery and steel wool. At the final station, Camp “Oh No,” scouts identified violations of general camping guidelines and “Leave No Trace” principles. The event wrapped up with a team knot-tying race featuring seven different knots against the clock.

Saturday afternoon was dedicated to practicing new skills and forming friendships with other troops. Some scouts even participated in a spirited 200-foot rope tug-of-war.

Following a closing flag ceremony, the scouts enjoyed a traditional Mulligan Stew dinner. This hearty meal—also known as hobo stew—dates back to the early 1900s when travelers combined ingredients to create a communal dish. Each troop contributed ingredients to the shared pot, resulting in a delicious and memorable meal.

The evening concluded around the campfire with skits, songs, awards, and prizes. Council Commissioner Katie Espinosa-Newton spoke about the upcoming 2026 National Jamboree, urging scouts to register early. She emphasized the importance of “Recruiting Every Day,” encouraging scouts to look for “R.E.D.” moments to help bring more youth into Scouting.

Juliana Halvorson and Denise Trowbridge spent the day collecting “Share Your Scouting Story” testimonials from Scouts. These first-person stories are powerful recruiting tools, and scouts are encouraged to share their experiences both on video and in person.

Order of the Arrow Chief Charles Moreau and Vice Chief Ashland Siddall shared highlights from the recent annual conclave in Alto, NM, and invited eligible scouts to consider joining the Order of the Arrow—Scouting America’s national honor society for those who have achieved the rank of First Class and camped at least 15 nights within two years.

Patrick Smith, Assistant Scout Executive, engaged Scouts with trivia questions, celebrating the council’s 100th anniversary and the 98th year of service at Wehinahpay Mountain Camp.

Troops from Carlsbad, Artesia, Roswell, Hobbs, Lovington, and Clovis were recognized for their outstanding performance at the camporee. Lovington Troop 300 earned first place, the combined team of Artesia Troop 228 and Hobbs Troop 3274 took second, and Clovis Troop 427 Girls placed third overall.

The 2025 Spring Camporee was more than just a weekend of outdoor challenges—it was a celebration of camaraderie, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Scouting. From mastering essential skills to building lifelong friendships, the event showcased the values that define Scouting: leadership, teamwork, and service. As the Conquistador Council looks ahead to its centennial and beyond, weekends like this one remind us all why Scouting continues to inspire the next generation of leaders.

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