Over 200 Boy Scouts braved inclement weather during the October 2 weekend to attend the Boy Scouts of America Wachusett District’s Fall Camporee, held at the Sterling Springs Campgrounds. Boy Scout Troops came from towns throughout the region, including Sterling, Ashburnham, Athol, Gardner, Lancaster, Leominster, Princeton, and Westminster.

Blustery weather and rain didn’t dampen the boys’ spirits as they competed in 13 events focused on key Boy Scout skills bearing out the Camporee’s “Back to Basics” theme. In addition to the competitions, Scouts were treated to demonstrations from the Sterling Police and Fire Departments, the Massachusetts State Police K-9 Unit, and two blacksmiths who demonstrated their skills. Saturday night featured a campfire with singing and storytelling. Sterling’s own Boy Scout Troop 189 hosted the event, which garnered many positive comments from troop leaders, Scouts and district staff.