Scouts can earn their camping merit badge by participating in a weekend camping trip with their troop. Depending on where they go, this project may include anything from picking up litter to planting native trees. The length of the trip is determined by the merit badge counselor, but the average campout lasts three or four nights. If a weekend campout is more convenient, a three-night camping trip may be enough. If not, the scout can ask his counselor for a different date.
Besides participating in designated Scouting activities, a boy must spend at least 20 nights camping. If he or she is a lifelong Scout, a long-term camping trip can count. The camping experience must be in a tent pitched by the Scout himself or herself. If he stays at a camp, he or she does not have to pitch his or her own tent. Another requirement of the camping merit badge is that the boy must backpack for at least four miles or participate in a non-motorized trip for at least four hours.
In addition to learning about camping, the boy scout must demonstrate that he or she can apply the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles. The Boy Scout must also be able to use a compass and a topographical map in order to find the best camping spot. The scout may also use a GPS receiver or a smartphone to assist him with his research. However, the Scout must be approved by an adult leader.