The Scouting 4-Day Camp has now existed for 37 years. Over time, the camp has developed a rich history. What began in 1986 as a ‘normal’ rental of the grounds of Scouting Keizer Karel to a group of Scouts participating in the Nijmegen Four Days Marches has since grown into an international event.
The First 'Camp'...
The first camp took place in 1986. Several Scout groups across the country wanted to participate in the Nijmegen Four Days Marches and were looking for a place to stay. The grounds of Keizer Karel were ideal: relatively close to the starting point, pleasantly situated in a wooded area, and still had that true ‘Scouting feeling’... It couldn’t get much better. But the people at Keizer Karel thought differently. As Scouts, you help each other—so within a few months, a committee was formed to support the Scouts on the grounds. Initially, this meant just providing meals, but soon wake-up services became a standard part of the organization as well.
Expansion
As more participants found their way to the camp, the Keizer Karel site became too small. The neighboring group had a site and volunteers available. In the third year (1989), Scouting Paul Kruger joined the organization. But participant needs were changing too. Returning Scouts, after a long day of walking, appreciated foot care. The Red Cross offered its help and provided foot care at the campsite for several years. It was still all on-site—there were no mobile care stations yet.
Medical Care
After a few years, the Red Cross became more involved with the main Four Days Marches event, which endangered the care provided at the camp. A solution had to be found. Through contacts, the organization was introduced to the ‘Radio Interest Crew’ (Radio Interesse Stam or RIS), who could take over the medical care—especially during the marches. An added benefit was the communication systems RIS could set up—at the time, a modern way to maintain contact between care stations and the campsite.
1993 - Makeshift stretchers built in the Cubs’ room
This later led to the creation of the ‘Medical and First Aid Crew’ (Medische en EHBO Stam), who took over the medical care.
Meanwhile, the then-active organization ‘Friends of Scouting’ (Vrienden van Scouting or VVS), seeing the rising success of the camp, set up their own camp with the same ideas and objectives. At first, the collaboration was minimal, but eventually, both parties realized they shared the same goals. Over time, they worked together under the name ‘Scouting 4-Day Camp,’ including in joint recruitment campaigns, such as at the Scout-In event—all with the aim of introducing new Scouts to the Scouting 4-Day Camp.
Radio Silence
Over the years, internet, mobile phones, and other forms of mobile communication became more widespread. This eliminated the need for the RIS to set up their own mobile communication networks. Slowly but surely, their role diminished, and eventually, the RIS ceased participating. However, the Medical and First Aid Crew remained loyal and still contribute to this day with a great collaboration.
1994 - Radio Interest Crew equipment in the staff room, ready to be set up
Setbacks
Scouting Paul Kruger entered a particularly busy period, which eventually led to their withdrawal from the organization. This created a challenge for the Scouting 4-Day Camp. Could we still use the site? What would it mean financially? Fewer people meant less income. Fortunately, a solution was found in mutual consultation, and the camp was not jeopardized. Sadly, the camp organized by VVS also had to cease operations. Luckily, we were able to accommodate some of their participants and staff. Today, there is only one Scouting 4-Day Camp, held at the site of Scouting Keizer Karel and Scouting Paul Kruger on Sophiaweg in Nijmegen.
More Setbacks
After the departure of Paul Kruger and VVS, the camp still ran successfully for several years. However, success came with consequences. The Food Safety Authority disapproved of the kitchen, the fire department raised concerns about the high number of people in a small space, and all sorts of regulations were imposed. Limits on the number of participants were introduced, the number of toilets and showers had to be sufficient, and detailed plans and protocols had to be created. All of this meant a lot more work—especially before the camp—and significantly higher costs. These higher costs certainly impacted how the camp was organized.
2002 - In the kitchen, back when the rules were not so strict
1995 - Sea Scouts ‘Het Zuiderkruis’ at the campfire pit
Scouting 4-Day Camp Nijmegen Foundation
On July 18, 2017, the Scouting 4-Day Camp Nijmegen Foundation was officially established by notarial deed. Its articles of association and internal regulations were adopted and can be requested from the secretary of the Foundation.
2017 - Foundation Board