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Since 1953, the word “camporee” has stirred excitement among Pathfinders eager to meet, camp, worship, and grow alongside clubs from across the country and around the world. Almost every year, the Arden Aviators Pathfinder Clubparticipates in some type of camporee—whether a local Carolina Conference event with hundreds of attendees or a Southern Union gathering with up to 5,000 Pathfinders. However, every five years, the International Pathfinder Camporee (IPC) offers the largest gathering of all. From 1999-2019, the event was held in Oshkosh, Wis., but in 2024, for the first time, the camporee moved to Gillette, Wyo.
A Journey of Faith and Preparation
The Arden Pathfinders began planning years in advance for the 2024 IPC. One of the biggest challenges was the distance—twice as far as the drive to Oshkosh in previous years—which significantly increased travel expenses. The club needed to raise $35,000 for its members, plus an additional $30,000 for families joining them. Through successful fundraisers, careful budgeting, and the generous support of the Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church, the financial goal was met.
When the reserved coach bus was delayed in repairs, the club quickly adapted. They formed a caravan of 12-passenger vans, with the Belangers and Rahms pulling the club’s restored chuckwagon and a second small trailer.
The journey to Gillette spanned 26 hours one way, offering ample time for conversation, car games, stories, music, and rest. Along the way, the group visited historic sites, including:
Cahokia Mounds, where thousands of Native Americans once lived
St. Louis Gateway Arch, taking in breathtaking views from the top
The historic courthouse where Dred and Harriet Scott fought for freedom
The South Dakota Badlands, known for their rugged beauty
Mount Rushmore, with its tribute to American history
Devils Tower, the nation’s first national monument
As they traveled, Arden’s teens decorated the vehicles with signs declaring their destination: "Gillette or Bust!" Along the way, they encountered other Pathfinder clubs doing the same, exchanging waves and honks of encouragement.
Camporee Begins: A Test of Resilience
The theme of IPC 2024, "Believe the Promise," centered on the story of Moses, Miriam, Aaron, and the Israelites. Each evening featured a professional musical drama, bringing their journey to life. The spiritual message was powerful and timely, reminding Pathfinders that just as God was with the Israelites, He has also promised to never leave or forsake us.
The Arden Pathfinders arrived in Gillette on Monday and quickly set up camp. Their spacious site was positioned at the back edge of CAM-Plex, a 1,000-acre multi-use facility. However, the three-mile round-trip walk to the main program area and other activities proved a daily challenge.
On Tuesday, as the group prepared for the first evening’s meeting, storm warnings were issued. Leaders ensured all tents were secured, and just as the sky darkened, heavy winds, thunder, lightning, and rain struck. Campers received emergency notices instructing them to seek shelter in vehicles or buildings. While 40,000 attendees took refuge in convention buildings, the Arden group was too far away and instead sheltered in two vans and a U-Haul truck.
The storm left a mark—lightning struck multiple times, hundreds of tents were destroyed, and some clubs were forced to leave that very night. One club’s tent poles were driven through a vehicle window by the sheer force of the wind. Arden was fortunate, suffering only one destroyed tent and soaked belongings. A local bed and breakfast generously opened their laundry facilities for the group, and the residents of Gillette and nearby towns brought extra tents, blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing to help clubs that had lost so much.
After the storm, a massive double rainbow stretched across the sky, serving as a reminder of God’s promise. The Arden club shared their extra tents, meals, and supplies with nearby clubs that had suffered greater losses.
Camporee Continues: Growth, Learning, and Service
The camporee rebounded quickly. On Wednesday, activities resumed, including:
Pin trading with Pathfinders from around the world
International food booths
Hands-on learning activities
Mini-rodeos and outdoor exhibitions
That evening, however, another storm threatened the meeting. Just before the program concluded, rain forced nearly 60,000 Pathfinders to navigate their way back to their tents by flashlight. In the crowd, Callen, the younger brother of two Pathfinders, became separated. Anxious prayers went up, and within minutes, word came that Callen had found security personnel and was safe—a moment of praise and relief for the entire group.
Thursday and Friday brought clear skies and full participation in the camporee. The highlight of Thursday was volunteering at the Carolina Conference Pioneer Village, where Arden Pathfinders dressed in 1840s period attire and led demonstrations on log sawing, woodworking, corn grinding, sewing, butter churning, and axe throwing. Southern Adventist University invited Pathfinders to earn the blacksmithing honor, and the opportunity drew many participants.
On Friday, the Arden Pathfinders joined the Southern Union and Canadian Union march, proudly leading the Carolina Conference banner at the front of the parade. Some club members even demonstrated marching choreography, adding energy to the procession.
That afternoon, storm warnings led camporee leaders to end the event one day early, prioritizing safety. Though disappointed to leave ahead of schedule, the extra half-day of travel was welcomed for the long journey home.
Reflecting on an Unforgettable Experience
By Monday evening, the Arden Pathfinders arrived home in Arden, N.C., unpacking their gear and drying tents. In total, the club’s journey spanned:
51 attendees (31 youth, 20 club staff and parents)
11 days of travel
3,677 miles across 10 states
Through challenges and triumphs, the Arden Pathfinders grew closer as a club and strengthened their faith in God. They returned home with new friendships, unforgettable experiences, and a deeper trust in God’s promises.
Believing His promises, the Arden Pathfinders conquered Camporee 2024—what an adventure!
— by Chris Small
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