Camping is the major activity at Philmont. You will camp every day on your trek at Philmont--camps that vary from vast meadows to narrow valleys and lofty mountain tops. Elevations at some camps are less than 7,500 feet; others exceed 10,000 feet. Your itinerary will include several different types of camps, such as starting, staffed, trail, and dry camps.

Rangers are the only staff in starting camps. Here you will receive ranger training and become further oriented and acclimated to Philmont.

Staffed c amps are supervised by a camp director and one to seven program counselors to present unique program features. All staffed camps have reliable water supplies and two-way, radio communications with the Philmont Logistics Services. Commissaries, trading posts, and showers are available at some staffed camps. See the booklet PEAKS for detailed information on camp facilities.

Trail camps have water but no staff. Here you are completely on your own. All itineraries include several trail and/or dry camps. They are part of your Philmont experience. See PEAKS for ideas about what to do in trail camps.

Dry camps have no water and no staff. They are used because they provide scenic vistas, pleasant campsites, and valuable training. Vast stretches of the great Southwest are dry, and early pioneers traveling the Santa Fe Trail in covered wagons had to conserve every cup of water. Sometimes they had to drink the blood of their oxen and other animals to survive. You will not have to endure this much hardship, but you may need to carry water for several miles before arriving at your dry camp. Check your itinerary to determine the closest place to get water.

All campsites are clearly designated with numbers routed into wood blocks nailed to trees. Check your map and use a compass to be sure you're at the right place. Most camps are designated by rectangular trail signs with the camp name. Look for a map of campsites that is posted in trail camps; sometimes the best campsites are secluded. The map will help you locate them.

Fire Points

Metal fire rings have been established at all camps. They are to contain the fires, reduce possibilities of forest fire, limit amounts of wood burned, establish campsites in the most desirable locations, eliminate unnecessary fire lays, and designate the place for all cooking. Do not scar the beauty of Philmont camps by creating unnecessary new fire lays or enlarging existing ones. Keep your fire small--it will be easier to extinguish. Conditions may ban the use of wood fires. Stoves are recommended.

Preparing Delicious Trail Menus -- Food Pickups

Ten different trail menus featuring food from progressive companies are issued in four-serving packets. Packaged in durable, disposable poly bags, these lightweight trail meals have been carefully developed and checked for quality and quantity for rugged mountain hiking and backpacking needs of energetic young people and leaders who hike Philmont Trails. Concentrated foods do not always look or taste the same as fresh, frozen, or canned foods, but when properly prepared they are appetizing and nourishing. Your crew may find it helpful to practice cooking freeze dried dehydrated food before your trek begins.

Explicit cooking directions are indicated on each food packet for your convenience. Follow these instructions closely. Remember, make allowances for high-altitude cooking.

When planning your trek, a Philmont itinerary planner will designate camps where you will pick up food. Normally, you will carry a 2-3 day supply--sometimes 4, depending on your itinerary. Each c amp commissary staff will issue you specific menus according to a prearranged plan. This plan enables your crew to eat a different menu each of your 10 days on the trail. Philmont trail food is by necessity a high-carbohydrate high-caloric diet. It is high in wheat, milk products, sugar and corn syrup, and artificial coloring/flavoring. If an individual is allergic to some food products or requires a special diet, suitable trail food must be purchased at home and brought to Philmont. Lightweight, non-perishable, low bulk foods are recommended for backpacking. Package each day's meals separately and write the person’s name and expedition number on each package. Upon arrival at the ranch, give the food to your Ranger who will take it to Logistics. Arrangements will be made to transport it to the appropriate backcountry commissaries for your crew. There is no fee reduction for individuals who bring their own food.

Appropriate substitutions can be arranged for food served in the dining hall by speaking with the dining hall manager upon your arrival at Philmont.

Philmont asks that food substitutions be requested only for medical (including allergies) or religious reasons. Your cooperation is appreciated. If there is any question about food substitutions, please contact Philmont by telephone (505-376-2281) or in writing.