Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the weekend, RSVP, and what to bring.
Select a question to expand the answer.
Who can attend?
This is a hometown weekend for Troop 1 and Pack 1 families and alumni. Invitation-scale — capped at 50 people.
How many people are expected?
About 50 people.
What does it cost?
RSVP is free. If you can contribute $25 per person now, that helps cover dinner and the weekend. If not, settle through Troop 1 or Pack 1. RSVP here.
How do I RSVP?
Use the Register page. Sign up is free. Optional $25 per person if you can pay now; otherwise settle through Troop 1 or Pack 1.
When does the weekend run?
Friday, October 9 afternoon/evening arrival through Sunday, October 11 morning departure (2 nights). Saturday is the program day. There is no Sunday program.
Where is the event site?
Inman Hill in Mendon, Massachusetts. View the site maps. Parking is at 98 Inman Hill Road.
What are the campfire and fire rules?
Campfires and open flames are only allowed in portable fire pits. No ground fires. All fires are subject to approval that weekend by the Mendon Fire Department Chief. In overly dry conditions we may need to run a fireless weekend — the event will go on either way.
Leave No Trace applies throughout the event; camp only in assigned areas. Full rules are on On-site → Event Rules.
Will food be available on site?
Saturday turkey dinner is provided for everyone (about 50 people). All other meals — Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast and lunch, Sunday breakfast — are bring-your-own. There is no snack bar on site.
Is there drinking water on site?
Bring drinking water. Do not count on potable water at Inman Hill. Wash stations may be available for hands; they are not a drinking-water supply.
What should we bring?
The same list lives on What to Bring.
Camping Essentials
- Tent (with ground cloth/footprint)
- Sleeping bag (rated for 30–40°F — October nights in New England)
- Sleeping pad
- Portable fire pit (ground fires not permitted)
Clothing & Personal Gear
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Warm layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic — avoid cotton)
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots
- Hat and gloves (fall mornings can be cold)
- Change of clothes
Food & Water
- Drinking water for the weekend (do not count on water on site)
- Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup, utensils)
- Meals for Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast and lunch, and Sunday breakfast (Saturday dinner is provided)
- Snacks
Day Pack
- Small backpack or day pack
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Personal medications
- Notebook and pencil
Extras
- Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Camp chair (optional)
- Camera
What NOT to bring: Firearms, fireworks, alcohol. Leave valuables and unnecessary electronics at home. Ground fires and open flames outside portable fire pits are not permitted.
What if it rains?
The event runs rain or shine. Pack rain gear and expect some New England fall weather. Programming may shift for safety during severe weather. See the Emergency Action Plan.
What is the cancellation policy?
The weekend runs rain or shine. The 1926 Committee would only cancel for a declared state of emergency, ground too unsafe to park (for example severe storm flooding), or an active hurricane threat. If the fire department determines conditions are too dry for safe fires, campfire programming may be adjusted but the event continues. If we have to cancel, RSVPs will be notified by email.
Can people with disabilities or special needs attend?
We want everyone who is invited to be able to take part. A few things to know about the site:
- Inman Hill has unpaved roads and rolling field terrain — not fully ADA-accessible for unassisted wheelchair use across all areas.
- Accessible drive-up camping is available for participants who need to stay close to a vehicle. Please arrange this in advance with the committee.
- An ADA-compliant portable restroom will be on site.
If you have mobility, sensory, dietary, or other needs, email us at info@mendoncentennialcamporee.org ahead of the weekend so we can make sure everything is in place.
What safety and medical support will be on site?
First aid at headquarters. Mendon Fire as medical backup; Police and Fire support on call. For medical emergencies, call 911 first, then report to event headquarters. See the Emergency Action Plan.
Will there be a patch?
A commemorative patch is in the works. The Troop 1 100-year patch is already in the site header.
Is financial assistance available?
RSVP is free. The $25 is optional. If even that is a barrier, email info@mendoncentennialcamporee.org — the 1926 Committee handles requests confidentially. Nobody invited should stay home over money.
What happens to lost items?
Lost and found is managed at event headquarters throughout the weekend. After the event, unclaimed items will be held by the 1926 Committee for two weeks. To claim something, email info@mendoncentennialcamporee.org with a description. After two weeks, unclaimed items will be donated — and any leftover committee funds from the event will be donated to the Mendon Food Pantry.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email the 1926 Committee at info@mendoncentennialcamporee.org or use the contact form.