Make database of camping places/times from online tour applications

jturman

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In Progress

This idea is from a volunteer in Loomis, CA.

Now that BSA is collecting tour applications online, why not let units see when and where other units are going camping? Units that go for the first time to a certain place outside of the normal time of the year could have a really bad experience. It would be helpful to see when everyone else goes.

One step further would be to set up a blind email system so later units could contact earlier units and ask specific questions. Along this same line it would be nice if the unit could write a review about the trip after they come home.

Idea # 431Technology, online, tour application, camping

Moderator Comments

3/9/09
From: Frank C. Reigelman, Director of Outdoor Programs

This idea should be investigated further by ISD to determine if it is viable and perhaps after several months of on line tour permit submissions, we will be able to view some sample data to determine how to configure a system. It could provide very useful data for units looking for new camping locations.

Comments

mmanner 10 months ago

This idea seems to me like creating one giant "Where to go camping" directory. While I like the idea, I would think that more information would need be be collected for it to be useful. For example, a place for submitting units to say "this camping location is private for our unit only." There are a number of places that units get in because they have inside access that other units may not have. Only places noted as "open to other scouting units" or some such could be added to the list. It would be nice to have some way of designating sites as Baloo approved for the cub leaders out there. Also I would think that information about what is available at the site, usage costs, etc would be great. Finally, for usability, i would hope that such a database would be searchable by state, distance from, etc.

Not only would this be good for units to put in their camping sites but councils should be able to put in their camp facilities to make them more accessible to units during off season times.

Judy Sizemore 5 months ago

Status Changed from Active to In Progress.