The 2026 National Jamboree is officially underway, and the Scouting Arizona, Grand Canyon Council contingent is making the most of every opportunity at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia. With more a week of adventure still ahead, our Scouts have already experienced incredible activities, formed new friendships, and proudly represented Arizona.
The excitement began as the contingent arrived at Delta Camp (D-3), our home away from home. After setting up camp and completing orientation, Scouts wasted no time diving into everything National Jamboree has to offer. They were also surprised by visits from Executive Board members Tom Curzon and Mike Hoffman, who stopped by to encourage the contingent before the adventures truly began.
One of the first unforgettable moments was joining more than 12,000 Scouts and leaders from across the country for the spectacular National Jamboree Opening Show. A special highlight was seeing Baron David Baden-Powell, the great-grandson of Lord Baden-Powell, founder of Scouting, take part in the celebration—a memorable connection to Scouting’s rich history.
As the weekend unfolded, our Scouts embraced every opportunity. They explored exhibits honoring Medal of Honor recipients, gaining a deeper appreciation for courage, leadership, and service. Arrowmen gathered with fellow members from around the country during the Order of the Arrow Rendezvous, while many Scouts practiced tying the Friendship Knot before attending one of the many faith services offered throughout Jamboree.
With nearly a dozen worship opportunities available—including one attended by more than 1,000 Scouts and leaders—the National Jamboree continues to demonstrate that “A Scout is Reverent.” Our Chaplain’s Aide, Lukas, along with Jason and Shaun, also took time to learn about the many faith traditions represented by Scouts from across the nation.
Adventure is around every corner at the Summit. Our contingent has experienced many of Jamboree’s most popular activities, including scuba, archery, and the exciting paintball course. Patch trading has become a daily tradition, giving Scouts the opportunity to meet participants from every state, exchange stories, and build friendships that stretch across the country.
Life in Delta Camp has been filled with memorable moments both big and small. Whether it’s Evan making the most of every adventure, Mrs. Higgins demonstrating impressive skill on the archery range, or Mr. Huston helping keep the “wolf population” in check.
The contingent also enjoyed an evening of fellowship by hosting Scout Executive Andy Price, Executive Board members Tom Curzon, Jacob Benyi, Chuck McGrath, and numerous Jamboree staff members and Scouting friends for cake and conversation. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces while celebrating the Scouting spirit that brings thousands together.
As another week of National Jamboree unfolds, the Grand Canyon Council contingent continues to experience the very best Scouting has to offer—leadership, adventure, service, friendship, and unforgettable memories.
We look forward to sharing even more highlights as our Scouts continue this once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Summit.
"What a privilege it has been to spend 15 days at the 2026 National Scout Jamboree with these five incredible leaders. I had never met any of them before September, and now I'm proud to call them friends. They are among the finest Scout leaders—and finest people—I know."
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