The Ongoing Tradition of National Camporama

November 17, 2021

The Ongoing Tradition of National Camporama

In the summer of 1974, men and boys from across the nation gathered at the US Airforce Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado for the first ever National Camporama. The Royal Rangers program had only been in existence for a dozen years, and this event provided the first opportunity for Royal Rangers from every part of the nation to come together for a time of fun, fellowship, and spiritual renewal. This historic event included a “skillarama” where boys could complete requirements for specific skill merits. It also featured hiking trails and displays. There was a special encampment for the Frontiersmen Camping Fraternity (now known as Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship) where boys could experience the traditions and lore of the early American frontiersman.

That first Camporama reflected the Royal Rangers program of its day as well as the prevailing culture and conditions common among our churches at the time. Through the years, many things have changed in Royal Rangers and in our churches, but some aspects of that first Camporama have come to represent an enduring tradition within the program. Outposts still camp together within an area designated for their district within the region encampment. Leaders and boys still enjoy a variety of activities, representing the common interests of their generation. We still gather for morning assemblies, and we all come together each evening for a time of fun and spiritual renewal.

Next summer we will once again have the opportunity to gather for National Camporama. This event will again include many of the favorite activities we have all come to know and love as well as a few new features:

• The JB Jamborama – This is a “small show” venue in the comfort and air conditioning of the JB Lodge. Sit and relax in the cool while you enjoy a variety of presentations.
• Merit Activity Stations – Located throughout the camp, these stations will provide boys with the opportunity to earn specific merits while at Camporama or enjoy a merit-related activity where they will learn a new skill and have fun in the process.
• Lego Derby – Come build your derby car on site from standard LEGO^® bricks and race against your friends. No advance preparation is necessary.

For many years, Camporama has offered leaders and boys of every generation the opportunity to participate in an event that brings outposts from across the nation together to celebrate Royal Rangers of today as well as Royal Rangers of the past and the future. At Camporama 2022, we will be reminded once again what it means to be a Royal Ranger and prepare our hearts for the journey ahead—wherever the paths may lead.