Author: David W.
Youth: Jay S. Matt M. Abraham L. Gavin G. Kevin B. Sterling G. Andrew W.
Adults: Dave Wood, Adreas Gurerro (SM), Jeff Burch, Wayne Ly, David Shott
Troop 171’s fall adventure took Scouts deep into one of Texas’ most dramatic and underrated landscapes—Caprock Canyons State Park. Nestled near the iconic Palo Duro Canyon, Caprock offers towering red cliffs, sweeping grasslands, and a wildlife population that feels pulled straight out of the Old West. Over a packed weekend, our Scouts explored, camped, cooked, hiked, and connected with the land in ways only Scouting makes possible.
The centerpiece of Caprock Canyons is its legendary bison herd—the official Texas State Bison Herd and the last remaining Southern Plains bison in existence. This herd roams freely across the park, wandering across trails, cliff edges, and prairie grasses with prehistoric calm. Scouts watched them from a respectful distance as they grazed and lumbered across the open range, learning about how these animals were brought back from the brink of extinction and why Caprock is home to one of the most successful conservation stories in the state.
Just down the trail, the energy shifted from massive and majestic to tiny and curious as the troop visited the Prairie Dog Village. Hundreds of prairie dogs chirped, popped up from their burrows, and scurried in every direction. Scouts quietly observed their intricate communication patterns and bustling underground community. It didn’t take long for several Scouts to name their favorite prairie dog or imitate their signature squeaky chatter.
But the highlight of the trip—and the biggest challenge—was completing the troop’s trail camping requirements. Armed with packs, maps, and the skills they’ve been sharpening all year, the Scouts hiked into the park’s primitive campsites. The trails wound through the rugged canyon walls, crossing dry creek beds and opening into panoramic views that rewarded every step. Once at camp, Scouts set up their shelters and prepared two trail meals from scratch—everything from simple skillet dinners to warm breakfasts cooked just after sunrise. For some, this was their first full experience managing a campsite far from roads, electricity, and running water.
The overnight stay brought a new kind of quiet. Without the glow of city lights, the night sky over Caprock became a huge dome of stars, stretching from canyon rim to canyon rim. Scouts pointed out constellations, shared stories, and bonded around the camp stove. By morning, packs were loaded quickly, and the return hike to base camp was filled with tired legs but high spirits—and plenty of pride in what they had accomplished.
Back at base camp, the troop reflected on the weekend’s challenges, victories, and unexpected joys. From observing one of the most historic bison herds in the nation, to laughing alongside prairie dogs, to hiking miles into remote canyons with everything they needed on their backs, Troop 171 experienced Texas in a way few people do.
It was a weekend of growth, grit, and unforgettable memories. And as always, Troop 171 left the land better than they found it—tired, a little dusty, and excited for the next adventure.
