Beyond Borders, Beneath the Stars: Inside USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps
- Sarah Symbalisty
- Aug 7
- 11 min read
Updated: Aug 8
When you think of summer camp, images of tents pitched in the woods, canoeing on a lake, marshmallows by a campfire, and songs sung beneath starry skies likely come to mind. Now imagine adding in a dolphin and cave boat tour in Portugal, whitewater rafting an hour outside of Tokyo, and day trips to Taipei City to that mix. Welcome to the world of USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps, a unique blend of traditional camp fun and global exploration.
Where American Traditions Meet Global Adventures
USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps are more than just summer programs; they are immersive cultural and leadership experiences for girls living abroad. These camps blend beloved American Girl Scout traditions with local cultural exploration, giving girls the chance to grow as leaders while making friends from around the globe.
A Global Sisterhood: Girl Scouts Abroad
Girl Scouts is a leadership development organization dedicated to empowering girls in grades K-12 through hands-on experiences, skill-building, and community involvement. With a focus on courage, confidence, and character, Girl Scouts encourages girls to explore their interests from STEM and the outdoors to entrepreneurship and service, while forming lasting friendships and making a positive impact on their world.
With strong networks on U.S. military installations around the world, including Osan Air Base, USAG Humphreys, and USAG Daegu, this program gives girls a taste of familiar scouting traditions while embracing the unique culture and community of their host country. One inspiring example is the Girl Scouts Daegu Troop 82100, where leadership, confidence, and kindness are at the heart of every activity.
What Makes USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps Unique
USA Girl Scouts Overseas (USAGSO) is a branch of Girl Scouts specifically designed for American girls living abroad, whether they're military families stationed in Korea, diplomats in Beijing, or expatriates in Italy. With strong networks on U.S. military installations around the world, including our very own Osan Air Base, USAG Humphreys, and USAG Daegu installations, this program gives girls a taste of familiar scouting traditions while embracing the unique culture and community of their host country. It's a safe, supportive space to grow as leaders, explore local cultures, and connect with other military-connected girls who understand what it's like to live life on the move. With over 10,000 members in more than 60 countries, USAGSO is more than a youth program; it's a lifeline of connection, leadership, and identity for girls navigating life outside the United States.
A Familiar Tradition, Far From Home
For many military families stationed overseas, summer is a time of transition, such as PCS moves, new schools, and new friends. It’s also a chance for connection, discovery, and adventure. One of the most enriching aspects of the overseas program is its summer camps. These camps are set in various countries around the world and run in the spirit of American Girl Scouting. USAGSO offers girls a rare opportunity to explore new cultures while celebrating the values that tie them back to their home country. And they’re open to all registered USAGSO Girl Scouts living abroad.
Types of USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps
The camps are designed to be inclusive and bilingual where needed, but only open to Girl Scouts from overseas, creating a space for rich cultural exchange. Campers engage in everything from kayaking and STEM workshops to local service projects and International Day celebrations. Camp locations vary from year to year.
Mini Camps – Three-night experiences in places like Nuestra Cabaña, Mexico, and Schmitten, Germany, designed to prepare Daisies to Cadettes for longer overnight camps.
Adventure Camps – Three-night adventures in Portugal, Slovenia, and South Korea, focusing on outdoor activities unique to each destination, welcoming Girl Scouts from Juniors through Ambassadors.
Week-Long Overnight Camps – Six nights of traditional Girl Scout fun in distinctive overseas settings, open to Brownies through Ambassadors. This year’s was held in Taipei, Taiwan.
While fun is at the heart of the experience, USAGSO Overseas Camps emphasize the same core values as stateside camps: confidence, courage, and character.
Summer Camps that Build Confidence, Courage, and Character
Despite their far-flung settings, USAGSO Camps stay rooted in the timeless traditions of American Girl Scouting: opening and closing night campfires, S'mores nights, SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere), and sing-alongs are all part of the package. They also serve as a bridge between worlds, where girls light friendship fires and share stories from life in places like Mongolia, Germany, and Japan.
Keeping Traditions Alive, Globally
Even while abroad, Girl Scouts honor cherished customs that connect generations of scouts worldwide.
A Girl Scout Campfire Tradition That Spans the Globe
One of the most beloved traditions is sharing ashes from one campfire to the next, a practice dating back to 1926 when Girl Scout founder Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low lit the campfire at the World Encampment at Camp Edith Macy in New York. Since then, these ashes have traveled to over 30 countries and 29 U.S. states, symbolizing unity, friendship, and shared values across borders.
In a world where connection across cultures is more important than ever, the Girl Scouts' campfires represent more than just a physical flame—they symbolize unity, shared experiences, and the passing of values that transcend borders.
Tips for Parents Sending Kids to Overseas Camps
When I first mentioned the idea of camp to my daughter, London, earlier this year, she was hesitant. The thought of going without knowing anyone made her nervous, so we compromised: she’d go if her friend went too. Luckily, her friend’s parents had the same idea, and we were able to send them to both the adventure camp in Jeju and the week-long overnight camp in Taiwan. Having a built-in buddy by her side made all the difference. It eased her homesickness, gave her the confidence to try new things, and helped turn both camps into unforgettable, shared adventures.
Packing, Preparation, and Peace of Mind
Prepping for camp with my daughter was also a collaborative process. We reviewed the packing list together, checked for any special themed days, shopped together to find the perfect hiking shoes, and made sure she had time to break them in before camp. To stay organized, we packed each day’s outfit in labeled gallon-sized ziplock bags in hopes that getting ready each morning at camp would be easy and stress-free. We weren’t the only family preparing this way either. When asked for tips for future camp parents, Nadia’s mom, Shams, shared, “Definitely pack with them so they know where everything is.”
For many parents, sending their child to camp for the first time is both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when it’s in a different country. Parents can rest assured that the camp directors and volunteers, many of whom are military spouses themselves, are trained not only in first aid and badge facilitation but also in intercultural awareness and sensitivity. Safety, structure, and communication are top priorities, with thorough emergency plans and culturally aware programming that meets Girl Scout standards worldwide. When my daughter was sick overnight, we were immediately informed and kept up to date with texts and pictures of her. Another benefit I truly appreciated as a parent was the no-electronics policy at camp. It forced the girls to unplug, be fully present, and connect face-to-face, without the constant distractions of screens, and in doing so, made more meaningful memories.
How Overseas Camps Benefit the Whole Family
Whether it’s your daughter’s first overnight away from home or simply her first time camping outside the U.S., you can feel confident knowing she’ll be supported, challenged, and surrounded by caring mentors and new friends. For many families, camp becomes a turning point, where girls return home more independent, more confident, and eager for what comes next. Nadia’s parents shared that their biggest hesitation was how she’d manage on her own. Still, she thrived in the experience and handled the separation with confidence.
When we returned home from Camp Taiwan, I asked my daughter if she wanted to attend again next year, even if her friends couldn’t join her, and her answer was an enthusiastic YES. My husband didn’t hesitate to show his support, offering to take her to next year’s camp, as long as it meant he could cash in on a week-long solo vacation.
I wasn’t a Girl Scout growing up, and seeing everything my daughter gets to experience now—traveling, learning new skills, and making friends from all over the world—it honestly moves me. This is the kind of opportunity I only dreamed about as a kid. Watching her grow more confident and adventurous with each camp reminds me that I’m giving her something I never had. And while a part of me wishes I could’ve done it too, an even bigger part is just so grateful that she can.
Although the camps are designed for the girls, they also create meaningful opportunities for parents and families. From solo vacations to family trips, each family found their own way to spend time while their camper was away. My husband and I took our youngest daughter on a memorable trip to Jeju, giving her our full attention while her sister was at camp. In Taiwan, another mom and I enjoyed a week-long “momcation.” One dad used the quiet time to catch up on much-needed sleep, while another family, juggling multiple children and busy schedules, arranged for a fellow Scout’s family to serve as guardians and take their daughter to Camp Taiwan.
Of course, camp comes with costs, and for many families, it’s a significant investment. Between the packing list, plane tickets, and accommodations, expenses can quickly add up. USAGSO understands this and is proud to offer financial aid to help make these life-changing experiences more accessible to families.
Exploring Asia Through Girl Scout Camps
This year’s camp adventures took girls to Jeju Island and Taiwan, blending outdoor challenges with cultural exploration.
Island Adventures Camp on Jeju Island
In March 2025, 11 girls from around Asia headed to the island of Jeju for a weekend adventure camp. Known for its volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and coastal beauty, Jeju offered the perfect backdrop for adventure and cultural exploration. For most of the girls, including my daughter, it was their first time experiencing the island’s rich blend of nature, culture, and community, all while strengthening friendships and earning new badges along the way.
Scouts hiked to the top of Seongsan Sunrise Peak (성산일출봉), explored the Jeju Folk Village (제주민속촌), and even had the chance to visit Jeju Aqua Planet - the largest aquarium in Asia. One thing that set Jeju apart from Taiwan was the food. The counselors shopped locally on Jeju-do, and every meal had a distinct Korean flair - from Korean BBQ and triangle kimbap to bulgogi tacos, a recipe shared by volunteer (and Camp Humphreys local) Monica Hoffmann. The girls also ended the evenings in true Korean fashion - by singing noraebang, also known as karaoke.
Not only did my daughter form friendships she’s eager to keep up, but she also connected with leaders who encouraged and inspired her. One even reinforced something my husband and I tell her almost daily—that she’d make an excellent lawyer someday.
Week-Long Overnight Camp: Camp Taiwan
In June 2025, 40 Girl Scouts from across the Asia-Pacific region gathered for an unforgettable overseas camp in the lush, mountainous countryside of northern Taiwan. Held at the renowned Camp Taiwan facility, the program offered a dynamic blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exchange. The theme of Camp Taiwan was Space is the Place. Each day brought a new intergalactic twist—from dressing up as your favorite female STEM role model to choosing sides in a “Light Side vs. Dark Side” Star Wars showdown. Other themes included Stars & Galaxy Day and a playful Cowgirls vs. Aliens dress-up day, adding a fun, imaginative spark to the camp experience.
Scouts participated in rock climbing, archery, and river tracing while also enjoying classic camp favorites such as tie-dyeing and bead crafts. Each activity—such as practicing CPR on dummies or building solar-powered racers—was tied to specific badge requirements. At the end of each camp, the girls were sent home with a checklist outlining which badge steps they had completed. On one special day, the local Girl Scouts of Taiwan troop visited to share dinner, exchange SWAPS, and build new friendships across cultures. Evenings were filled with campfires, glow parties, hide-and-seek, and movie nights, adding a touch of magic to each day’s adventures.
Voices from Camp: What Girls and Volunteers Say
Nadia, Age 11 (Junior)
“My favorite activity was river tracing because it involved water that was refreshing and super fun. I learned that cicadas are crunchy and I also learned first aid. For example, they taught us about extreme allergies. The thing I will miss most about camp was all the friends we made. I wonder when I can see them again!”
London, Age 10 (Junior)
“Making friends and meeting new people was my favorite part of both camps. Visiting Aqua Planet in Jeju was my favorite activity because I like visiting aquariums and I liked learning about knot tying in Taiwan. Oh, I also liked learning all the songs! The one thing I will miss most about camp is all the friends I made.”
Monica Hofmann, Gold Award Girl Scout and Camp Jeju Volunteer
“I was a Girl Scout since kindergarten and I had a full circle moment in Jeju. I learned how to crochet on a Girl Scouts Wider Opportunities trip to New Zealand years ago and I was able to teach the older girls how to crochet in Jeju. Hopefully it’s something they remember!”
How to Join USA Girl Scouts Overseas and Start the Adventure
USA Girl Scouts Overseas may be thousands of miles from home. Still, they create something close to magic. In this place, American values meet global adventure, where girls discover not only who they are but also who they can become. Behind every meeting, badge, and campfire moment are dedicated troop leaders who show up with heart, encouraging the girls to be brave, kind, and unapologetically themselves. As the new school year approaches, you’ll likely hear more about local Girl Scout troops gearing up for another exciting year. If you’re stationed in South Korea and have a daughter in grades K–12, please find your local contact below and get her started on this incredible journey!
Daegu (Camp Walker / Camp Carroll): Ashley Courts acourts@girlscouts.org
Osan Air Base: Ashton Little osangirlscouts@usagso.org
Camp Humphrey’s: Izzy Vorsteg humphreysgirlscouts@usagso.org
To learn more and find your local troop, visit the USA Girl Scouts Overseas website https://www.usagso.org/
Resources
If you’re ready to explore the exciting world of USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps, these resources will guide you through every step—from understanding the program’s mission to registering your child for camp. Whether you’re a military family, an expatriate parent, or simply curious about how Girl Scouts abroad combine American traditions with global adventure, the following links offer valuable insights, official information, and first-hand experiences to help you get started.
First-Hand Experience: Overseas Girl Scout Camps for Military Kids – Sarah Symbalisty – A personal look at the opportunities, benefits, and experiences available to military-connected Girl Scouts abroad.
Official Program Information: USA Girl Scouts Overseas Overnight Camp – Find details about camp programs, age levels, locations, and how to register.
Girl Scouts Overseas FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions – Girl Scouts Overseas – Answers to common questions about living abroad as a Girl Scout, troop structure, and camp participation.
Frequently Asked Questions about USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps
1. Who can join USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps?
USA Girl Scouts Overseas Camps are open to registered USAGSO members—American girls living abroad, including those from military, diplomatic, and expatriate families.
2. Where are these camps held?
Camp locations change each year and can include destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Past locations have included Jeju Island, Taiwan, Portugal, Slovenia, and Germany.
3. What activities do the camps offer?
Activities vary by location but often include outdoor adventures, STEM workshops, cultural excursions, campfire traditions, and leadership skill-building experiences.
4. How do I register my child?
Visit the USA Girl Scouts Overseas Overnight Camp page for program details, eligibility, and registration information.
5. Is financial aid available?
Yes. USAGSO offers financial assistance to help make camp accessible to as many families as possible.
Thank you for allowing me to share this experience! I hope this encourages more families to join.