Camp Orr holds first season under new council

CAMP ORR — The Boy Scouts of America changed its name last February to Scouting America. This change reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to welcoming every youth in America to experience the benefits of Scouting. The name change coincided with the organization's 115th birthday, Feb. 8. Other changes have also been announced, locally. In November 2023, the Quapaw Area Council and Westark Area Council merged to form The Natural State Council. Camp Orr, located within the boundaries of the Buffalo National River in Newton County is under the administration of the new council.
Scouting America executives said combining efforts will impact more than 6,200 youth across 56 counties in the state by allowing BSA to achieve cost savings by leveraging shared expertise, resources, programs and facilities that will create a more robust and resilient Scouting network.
Additional financial support for the Natural State Council came in the form of a $500,000 matching grant opportunity from the Walton Family Foundation.

A competition to design a new patch for the Natural State Council was conducted and selected December 2023.
About 500 Scouts were expected to attend Camp Orr programs during the 2024 summer sessions. "Camp Orr is accredited by the Scouting America and surrounded by the National Park Service, it offers a pristine biosphere with incredible wildlife and vegetation. Enjoy back yard access to scenic backpacking, float trips, climbing, and a therapeutic escape from the outside world. Dive into nearly 600 acres of Buffalo National River Wilderness for summer camping!
Other Scout reservations in the Natural State Council are Camp Rockefeller at Damascus and Camp Desoto in Union County.