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Home > Guidebook to Adventure > Program Features
Program Features

Each itinerary is carefully developed to give your crew the maximum enjoyment of hiking and camping in the high mountains of the Sangre de Cristos. Itineraries also include certain staffed camps where you will pick up food and participate in program features. Although programs are not compulsory, they are recommended to get the most benefit from your Philmont experience

A list of staffed camps with program features listed for each camp follows. The letter "S" denotes starting camps.

CAMPS PROGRAM FEATURES
NORTH COUNTRY
Anasazi (S) Ranger Training
Baldy Camp Food pickup, trading post, museum, geology
Bent (S) Ranger training
Black Horse, Copper Park,
Ewell's Park, Ute Meadows
Side hike Baldy Mountain
Dan Beard No trace camping, ropes and challenges
Dean Cow Rock climbing, environmental awareness
French Henry Blacksmithing, gold mining and panning
Head of Dean Ropes and challenges
Indian Writings Archaeology
McBride (S) Ranger training
Miranda Burro packing, mountain man rendezvous
Ponil Horse rides, burro packing, cantina, western lore, food pickup, trading post, chuck wagon dinner and breakfast, fishing
Pueblano Continental Tie and Lumber Company, Philmont Story Campfire
Sioux (S) Ranger training
CENTRAL COUNTRY
Black Mountain Mountain living--backwoods skills, black powder rifle, blacksmithing
Cathedral Rock (S) Ranger training
Cimarroncito Rock climbing, environmental awareness
Clark's Fork Horse rides, western lore, chuck wagon dinner
Clear Creek Rocky Mountain Fur Company, black powder rifle, trapping
Cypher's Mine Blacksmithing, gold mining and panning
Harlan Burro racing, 12 gauge shotgun shooting
Vaca Pond (S) Ranger training
Sawmill 30-06 rifle shooting
Ute Gulch Food pickup, trading post
Ute Springs (S) Ranger training
SOUTH COUNTRY
Abreu Adobe Casa, cantina, fishing, burro racing, Mexican dinner
Apache Springs Jicarilla Apache life, corn grinding, sweat lodge
Beaubien Horse rides, western lore, chuck wagon dinner
Crater Lake Continental Tie and Lumber Company, Philmont Story Campfire
Crooked Creek Homesteading
Fish Camp Fly tying and fishing, tour lodge
Lover's Leap (S) Ranger training
Miner's Park Rock climbing, environmental awareness
Old Abreu (S) Ranger training
Phillips Junction Food pickup, trading post, fishing
Rayado River (S) Ranger training
Urraca Ropes and challenges, Philmont Story Campfire
VALLE VIDAL
Iris Park Mountain biking
Rich Cabins Homesteading, food pickup
Ring Place Food pickup, environmental awareness, tour cabin, conservation, astronomy
Seally Canyon Wilderness Medicine/Search and Rescue, GPS Technology

(S) Starting camp

Adobe Casa
At Abreu you will become acquainted with the art of constructing southwestern architecture. After mixing a batch of adobe mud, using a special formula of clay, straw, water, and sand, you pack it into wooden forms to mold bricks. When the bricks have dried from the solar energy of the New Mexico sun, they are used for construction.

Archaeology
The Ponil country in the northern section is rich in the prehistoric background of the American Indian. Your crew can help reconstruct Philmont history while participating in this fascinating program and learning about Indians who inhabited this area.

An educated archaeologist and staff explain and supervise the program in the North Ponil Canyon. Activities may include assisting with excavations or preparing specimens and artifacts.

PLEASE NOTE: You can assist the archaeology program by being observant as you hike the trails. You may discover an artifact that will lead to further discoveries Philmont's antiquities rightfully belong to Philmont and are most meaningful when left where found. Others can then share the benefit of your discovery. Please report all finds to one of the staff arcl1aeologists at Indian Writings or to the Philmont Museum.

Black Powder
You will use powder, patch, ball, ramrod, and cap to actually load and shoot a .50 caliber muzzle-loading rifle. This exciting, historic program is offered at Black Mountain, Clear Creek and Miranda.

Blacksmithing
The ring of hammer striking iron echoes through the mountains around French Henry, Black Mountain, and Cypher's Mine camps. Here a staff blacksmith will acquaint you with a working forge, blower, leg vice and hardie, and an array of tongs used to grip red-hot iron. I le will discuss and demonstrate techniques for firing the forge, working metal, and tempering the finished product.

Burro Packing
No animal is more closely associated with the colorful history of the Southwest than the burro. Burro packing methods are explained and demonstrated at Ponil and Miranda. Your tents and food may be packed on burros using a diamond hitch. Burros are available for use on the trail in the northern portion of the ranch, starting or ending at Ponil and Miranda. Burro traps (holding pens for overnight stops) are located at Ponil, Pueblano, and Miranda. Hay for feeding is provided at these camps. If your itinerary provides for packing burros, take advantage of this unique opportunity to pack them just as the miners once did.

Burro Racing
Thrills galore await you in catching, packing, and racing a burro in competition with other crews. At Harlan and Abreu this activity provides a memorable experience. In keeping with the southwestern spirit of the program, you will be instructed in preparing a special Mexican meal at Abreu.

Cantina
Ponil and Abreu offer the opportunity for a thirst-quenching root beer in a Mexican or Western-style cantina. You can buy a pitcher of root beer for your whole crew or a cup for yourself

Conservation
Philmont offers opportunities for involvement, participation, and observation of conservation practices. Most conservation projects involve trail construction or repair, which is very important in controlling erosion.

Three hours of conservation work under the supervision of a Philmont Conservationist is expected of each camper to earn the Arrowhead Award. Ten hours of conservation work is a requirement for the 50-Miler Award. The 3 hours earned at Philmont can be applied--the other 7 may be acquired back home.

Philmont has a number of conservationists on its staff; each located strategically throughout the backcountry. Logistics will identify the best location for your crew to do your 3-hour project under the supervision of one of them who will help you qualify for both the Arrowhead Award and the partial on the 50-Miler Award.

Should your itinerary not provide for an area with a trail construction site, Logistics will identify an alternate project that can be done under the leadership of your advisor

Continental Tie and Lumber Company
The exciting legend of the loggers with the Continental Tie and Lumber Company will come to life through the staff at Pueblano and Crater Lake. They will share their skills of spar tree "pole" climbing and the use of wood tools and instruments. Competition in exciting logging events such as log toss, cross-cut sawing, and log tongs races will challenge your crew.

Environmental Awareness
Become acquainted with some of the western birds, wildflowers, mammals, lizards, snakes, and insects in this natural outdoor wonderland. Discover what wildlife passed through camp by observing tracks and other signs--view how plant and animal species change as you climb higher into the mountains, and learn why these changes occur--walk past the timberline and observe the life that survives the rigors of this high-altitude environment.

At Cimarroncito, Miner's Park, Ring Place, and Dean Cow, a program of environmental awareness will be given to help you know and understand Philmont's flora, fauna, geology, and life zones; and how you can be a part of maintaining the natural order of things so others that follow may enjoy them too.

Fly Tying and Fishing
The Rayado and Agua Fria streams in the south and Ponil stream in the north offer excellent trout fishing. Though not large, these trout are wary and exciting to catch. A little time and skill spent along these streams may yield you a delicious trout supper or breakfast. Fly rods may be checked out at Fish Camp, Phillips Junction, Abreu, and Ponil.

At Fish Camp a program counselor with material and equipment will show you how to tie your own trout flies. The thrill of catching a trout on a fly you have tied is hard to beat. Near Fish Camp and Abreu a catch and release program is in effect. If you don't know how to remove the hook from your fish or how to c lean it, a program counselor will demonstrate the correct methods. Your crew may also participate in Philmont's fish habitat improvement project and satisfy a portion of your conservation requirements. A tour of Waite Phillips' fishing lodge, including a narrative of area history, is also offered. All fishermen are required to have a current New Mexico state fishing license.

Geology
Philmont and the Bureau of Land Management have teamed up to provide an exciting and educational program of geology, mining technology and history at the sites where history comes alive--Baldy Camp and Cypher’s Mine Camp.

Gold Mining and Panning
Gold is still found in almost all streams on Philmont, which was once the scene of lucrative gold-mining operations. Mine shafts, sluice boxes, and placer mines dot the mountainsides and valleys. If your itinerary takes you to Cypher's French or Mine Henry you will tour a real gold mine. Not working now, the mine is carefully shored so you can tour the mine tunnel. Bring your jacket and flashlight for the tour. Learn about adventures that were experienced during the fascinating and colorful past as determined miners sought their fortunes in these historic mountains. When you find some "color," ask one of the staff miners for some cellophane tape so you can take your discovery home to show others your success. Gold pans are available for you to use at Cypher's Mine, Baldy Camp, and French Henry.

Homesteading
At Crooked Creek and Rich Cabins your crew will visit a working homestead. The staff will help you learn early day skills such as rail splitting, shingle making, primitive farming, log structure construction and care of farmyard animals.

Horse Rides
Philmont owns and maintains a remuda of 250 western horses with strings located at Beaubien, Clark's Fork, and Ponil. All three camps offer exhilarating mountain horse rides at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Be prompt for your scheduled ride. Reservations are made at Logistics Services on a first-come, first-served basis upon arrival at Philmont.

Philmont wranglers are courteous but strict. They make certain everyone stays in line and maintains the pace to avoid endangering members of your crew. Even skilled riders cannot be permitted to ride at a different pace or away from the group. Please cooperate with the wranglers by following instructions for a safe and enjoyable ride. For your personal safety you will wear a helmet, which will be provided. Ponchos and maps should not be taken since they may frighten the horses. Wear long trousers on your horse ride to protect your legs. Persons weighing over 200 pounds will not be permitted to ride.

Jicarilla Apache Life
Apache Springs offers a unique program featuring the lifestyle of the Jicarilla Apache. You will see how the Jicarillas worked and played. A replica Jicarilla village has been erected for this program. Tepees are furnished with realistic fireplaces, back rests, robes, hides, and baskets for you to see.

Learn how to make arrowheads by knapping (chipping) rock with deer antlers. You may also grind corn using a mano and metate formed from smooth rocks. After that you can enjoy a "Jicarilla sauna" in a sweat lodge, followed by a dousing with cold water.

Mountain Biking
Enjoy one of America's fastest growing sports at Iris Park Camp as your crew takes a wilderness Mountain Bike Ride into the most remote areas of the beautiful Valle Vidal section of the Carson National Forest.

Mountain Livin'
This interpretive program is based upon skills utilized by the people who lived in this area years ago. Blacksmithing, candle making, fashioning furniture and utensils from native materials, and making soap are typical early homestead crafts you will learn and do. The only access to Black Mountain camp is on horse or foot; it is a perfect setting for this unique program

Mountaineering
Although not a staff-sponsored program feature, mountaineering can be as fun and exciting as any. Restless adventurers seek challenges, comradeship, spectacular views, fields of delicate wildflowers, stimulating exercise, and solace by climbing high mountains. You can fulfill these urges at Philmont, where many challenging mountains await you. Mount Waite Phillips, nearly 12,000 feet high, towers over the beautiful southwest section of Philmont country. This peak is a rugged climb with fabulous views of Eagle Nest Lake, Wheeler Peak (highest mountain in New Mexico at 13,161 feet elevation) and most of Philmont.

"Old Baldy," named for its rocky, barren top, is a favorite climb for those who camp in the Baldy Camp vicinity. Dotted with old gold mines, Baldy is the highest peak on Philmont--12,441 feet. The view from its top is unobstructed and spectacular.

The Tooth of Time, the 9,003-foot high Philmont molar, rises abruptly 2,500 feet from the valley floor. A landmark along the old Santa Fe Trail, the Tooth will give you a memorable view of Philmont.

Big Red, Black Mountain, Hart Peak, Lookout Peak, Trail Peak, and many other peaks will test your stamina and give you breathtaking views of surrounding terrain.

Always carry water, rain gear, jacket and other essentials when mountaineering.

No Trace Camping
Wildland ethic depends upon attitude and awareness rather than on rules and regulations. While at Dan Beard you will have the opportunity to learn how to enjoy wildland with respect; to hike, camp, eat meals, and dispose of trash without leaving a scar or trace.

Philmont Campfires
Throughout the backcountry, various staffed camps conduct special evening campfires and programs.

Urraca, Pueblano, and Crater Lake campfires relate to tales of the Old West, logging, and the history of the land. Facts about the Beaubien Miranda Land Grant come alive, and the influence of Waite Phillips and his gift of Philmont to the BSA provide for a special inspiration. 

At Beaubien and Clark's Fork, the focus is on the Old West with its songs and stories and true cowboy atmosphere. 

At Cypher's Mine the story of gold will become memorable as an interpreter relates the life and adventures of miners of yesteryear. 

Conducting your own campfire can be equally stimulating, whether you are camping at Visto Grande, Wild Horse Park, New Dean, or another non-staffed camp. You and your friends will enjoy the camaraderie that radiates from the warmth of a Scouting campfire.

Rendezvous
Catch some of the flavor of a mountain man rendezvous while at Miranda. Find out why rendezvous were held and what went on. See demonstrations of the mountain man way of life and participate in some of these skills and contests such as "hawk" throwing and muzzle-loading rifle.

Ring Ranch
Visit the historic Ring family home at Ring Place Camp and learn about their way of life during the early years. Astronomy is featured each night. Gaze through a professional quality telescope to see the rings of Saturn, distant stars and moons.

Rock Climbing
This fascinating and challenging sport is a favorite of all Philmont campers. You'll scale a steep pitch and rappel down a sheer cliff Philmont has carefully selected three areas to conduct this program where the rocks are safe and practical, but a distinct "Class Five" challenge.

Under the supervision of expert climbers, you will climb using your hands and feet while protected by rope, carabiners, and helmet. Safety is always stressed and practiced. 

Rock climbing at Philmont is restricted to the three locations, Miner's Park, Cimarroncito, and Dean Cow, and is only done under the supervision of Philmont rock climbing staff.

Rocky Mountain Fur Company
At Clear Creek several veteran trappers of the Rocky Mountain Fur Company (portrayed by Philmont staff members) have established an outpost camp. Trapping was their way of life; however, it is not practiced at Philmont today. See traps like those they used to catch beaver, muskrat, raccoon, and bear. Hear about how they cured the hides and see trade goods which they used to purchase food and supplies.

Ropes and Challenges
A series of activities that will test the teamwork, skill, and resourcefulness of your crew awaits you at Dan Beard, Head of Dean and Urraca Camps. While the challenges can be met by every crew, the real contest is with yourself. Did you do your best? How would you do better next time?

Special Trail Meals
The programs at Clark's Fork and Beaubien include a special chuck wagon dinner A Mexican meal is included at Abreu. Ponil will feature a chuck wagon dinner and a special breakfast. Members of your crew will help prepare these meals. 

Cast-iron Dutch ovens can't be beat for good old-fashioned cooking, but they require some special care. Clean the oven by boiling water in it for about 10 minutes. Scrape any remaining food particles with a flat wood chip--do not use scouring pads or anything metal because scratches can harm the oven. Heat it until dry, then grease the inside and lid lightly with shortening, wipe off any excess and replace the lid. Dutch ovens may be borrowed at most staffed camps.

.30-06 Rifle Shooting
This program offers a review of firearms and tips for successful and safe shooting. Wildlife conservation and game management are discussed. 

Metallic silhouette targets provide a challenging experience at Sawmill's .30-06 rifle range. Each participant will reload and fire 3 rounds; additional rounds may be purchased at 3 for $1.00.

12 Gauge Shotgun Shooting
Shooting trap takes skill, but with some instruction and practice you may find that you can hit clay birds. Each participant at Harlan will reload and fire 3 rounds: additional rounds may be purchased at 3 for $1.00.

Western Lore
Philmont is an operating western cattle ranch. Cowboys still watch over cattle on horseback and drive them from their winter pasture on the plains to high mountain meadows for summer grazing. While you hike the trails, look for the white-face Hereford cattle. Though not wild, they are best observed from a distance. A cow with a calf may become dangerous if she feels her calf is threatened. To chase or attempt to rope these animals is foolish and can result in serious injury. Watch and photograph them if you wish.

An organized western lore program is offered at Beaubien, Ponil and Clark's Fork. Horse riding, campfires, and branding are all part of the western lore program. Philmont cowboys will tell you about New Mexico's cattle industry. Using authentic western lariats, they will show you how to rope. The cowboy's garb and equipment will be named and their uses explained. After a hearty chuck wagon dinner which you help prepare, you'll gather around a campfire under the western sky for an evening of songs, guitar playing, and stories of the Old West at Beaubien or Clark's Fork. Ponil campers may gather at the cantina. Ponil also features a chuck wagon breakfast.

Wilderness Medicine/Search and Rescue/GPS Technology
This exciting informative program at Seally Canyon Camp will enable your crew to "Be Prepared" to meet emergency first aid needs in a true wilderness environment. Every year many people become lost in the outdoors. Scouts are often called upon to help search for these people. Your crew will enjoy learning how to correctly conduct an organized search.

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