Question 1

What is Prairie Flower Encampment

Accepted Answer

Prairie Flower Camp has been providing an outdoor skills–focused camping experience since 1980. The camp began as a tent-based adventure in the prairies of Camp Elk River. As participation grew, it relocated to Camp Greenwood, and later to Camp Lakamaga, where it continues today.
The program emphasizes outdoor cooking, troop collaboration, and building lasting connections across Scout troops. The camp is open to Scouts in 4th grade and older.
On Saturday, the camp offers a variety of pre-planned activities that Scouts and troops can sign up for, while also leaving ample time for troop bonding and meeting new friends along the way.

Question 2

Where is Prairie Flower?

Accepted Answer

Prairie Flower Camp is at Camp Lakamaga. 12303 Lakamaga Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047

Question 3

Why do I need to go to a Leader meeting about camp?

Accepted Answer

Prairie Flower has always expected a member of each troop to attend a leader's meeting each year.  This meeting is especially helpful for new troops and/or leaders. This allows you to know and understand what to expect at Prairie Flower and how to prepare your troop for this experience.  There is more to Prairie Flower that is usually in a Community Encampment, and as a result it is important that we are all on the same page with expectations.  Not to mention it is a GREAT opportunity to meet and connect with other troop leaders who will also be at camp, enlist help and support, and learn a lot of tips and tricks that can help your experience be smoother and more successful.

Question 4

What are SWAPS?

Accepted Answer

Girl Scout SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere) are small, handmade tokens of friendship exchanged at events, camps, and troop meetings. They serve as fun keepsakes that help Scouts make new friends and remember shared adventures. SWAPS often include pins, patches, or lanyards so they can easily be attached to vests, bags, or badges.

More than crafts, SWAPS are a playful way to break the ice, connect with other troops, and celebrate the spirit of Girl Scouting. Popular and simple SWAPS ideas include pom-pom animals, friendship bracelets, and felt trefoils.

Question 5

What is a Scout's Own Ceremony

Accepted Answer

A Girl Scouts’ Own is a meaningful, girl-led, non-religious ceremony planned by Scouts. During the ceremony, troops explore themes such as friendship, the Girl Scout Promise and Law, or a connection to nature through reflection, music, poetry, or skits. It is a space that encourages leadership, self-expression, and troop bonding.

Unlike an award or recognition ceremony, a Girl Scouts’ Own focuses on shared experiences and thoughtful connection. It is often held in a meeting space or outdoors—frequently around a campfire—and includes moments of quiet reflection.

Question 6

Can I lead my troops on the Low Ropes Course if I am Certified?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can during specific times. In order to do this, you will need to identify the Certified Low Ropes adult when you complete the Logistics and Program Choice Form. We will confirm that person with council, and at camp you will receive a ribbon that identifies you as being certified and able to bring your troop on the course. You are allowed to use the course on Friday Evening. Saturday Evening after the Closing program, and Sunday Morning before 11. We ask that no more that 3 groups be on the course at 1 time, and you can use your ribbon at the entrance to signify that you are there.

Question 7

What if there is rain?

Accepted Answer

Camp will take place rain or shine, so troops should come prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. If rain occurs, alternate programs and/or locations will be available, and any changes will be noted in your schedule.

Many troops will have access to a covered or protected shelter for outdoor cooking, but not all. Shelter details will be provided in your event information. If your troop does not have access to a food preparation shelter—especially if rain is in the forecast—we strongly recommend bringing a canopy or pop-up tent for outdoor cooking and prep.

In the event of severe inclement weather, troops who are tent camping will be assigned a backup indoor sleeping location. Some of these spaces are multi-use shelters and not specifically designed for sleeping, so you will still need to bring your own mats, cots, or ground insulation.

Backup shelter space may be shared with other troops, and you may also need to adjust your setup to accommodate Saturday programming or group activities.

Question 8

What is a Flag Retirement Ceremony?

Accepted Answer

A Flag Retirement Ceremony is a solemn and respectful event held to honor U.S. flags that are no longer fit for display. During the ceremony, flags are retired in a dignified manner—most often through burning, in alignment with the principles of the U.S. Flag Code—to recognize their service and symbolize respect and renewal.

These ceremonies are typically led by veterans’ organizations, Scout troops, or community groups, and may include the Pledge of Allegiance, the national anthem, readings, prayers, or traditional ceremonial rituals. The event serves as a meaningful tribute to the flag and all it represents.

Question 9

What type of equipment will we need for camp?

Accepted Answer

Each troop is responsible for bringing its own equipment and supplies. If you need help sourcing items you don’t currently have, families, local communities/areas, and the Council can be great places to start.

If your troop has a specific need, the Prairie Flower Camp committee is happy to help connect you with available resources—just reach out and we’ll point you in the right direction.

There are also local companies that offer camping equipment rentals, including organizations such as the University of Minnesota and retailers like REI.

In addition, a wide variety of camping equipment is available to borrow directly at camp, including tents, Dutch ovens, pie irons, roasting forks, and kitchen essentials such as utensils, pots and pans, mixing bowls, dishpans, and more.

Question 10

Getting around camp?

Accepted Answer

Attending troops need to be prepared to carry the troop and personal gear for up to a few blocks to their lodging site. NO VEHICLES WILL BE ALLOWED BEYOND THE PARKING LOTS. No Exceptions. Carts are available for troop use.

Question 11

What is a mess kit?

Accepted Answer

This is a set of dishes used by an individual for eating meals.  It should include a plate, bowl, cup, fork, spoon, knife, and a mesh bag to carry the items in.  Scouts will clean the dishes with the 3 tub and bleach method, and hang the dishes in the bag to dry.

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