The early American frontiersmen exemplified the spirit of adventure and courage. They climbed mountain trails and made their way through a snow-filled mountain pass with great anticipation for what they might find on the other side. These rugged individuals were willing to risk much to blaze a new trail into the unknown wilderness so others would eventually follow.

Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship (FCF) is a special program of Royal Rangers that provides men and boys with additional opportunities to develop specialized outdoor skills based on the lore and traditions of the early American frontiersmen. FCF members participate in special events where frontier skills are demonstrated and practiced. Competitions are commonly held that promote the development of these skills and reflect the excitement, color, and flair of frontier America.

Members of Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship are challenged to demonstrate the attributes exemplified by the early frontiersmen as they seek to further the objectives of the Royal Rangers ministry.

Purpose of FCF

The threefold purpose of FCF is to:

1. Inspire brotherhood among our members
2. Promote personal development through advancement and training
3. Provide valuable service to Royal Rangers and beyond

Additional details on the purpose of FCF can be found in the FCF Handbook (item #020540).

FCF Pledge

"I share with you the warmth and glow of this campfire. These crimson flames are a symbol of our fellowship and adventures in camping. I promise to share with you the warmth of Christian friendship and with others the light of my Christian testimony. I promise to keep alive the spirit of FCF in my personal life and to observe at all times the principles of Royal Rangers."

FCF Motto

"To Give and to Serve" (In Latin: "Ad Dare Servire")

FCF Symbol

The blazing campfire is the official symbol of FCF, demonstrated through the warmth of Christian love, the light of personal witness, and the usefulness of dedicated service. The FCF symbol includes five logs which represent the five elements that are essential to keeping alive the spirit of FCF. Every FCF member is encouraged to:

• Demonstrate Courage
• Pursue Achievement
• Develop Friendships
• Practice Leadership
• Display Woodsmanship

Membership & the Trail of the Grizzly

FCF membership is open to all Royal Rangers men and boys who meet the requirements as stated below. FCF features three levels of membership. All members bear the title of “Frontiersman”. Those who take on the challenge of further developing their frontier knowledge and skills may complete additional requirements to attain the status of “Buckskin Frontiersman.” Those who demonstrate the highest level of skill may become “Wilderness Frontiersman”. The process of attaining these three sequential levels of membership is referred to as the "Trail of the Grizzly."

Frontiersman Requirements

In order to become a member of FCF and attain "Frontiersman" status individuals must satisfy the following requirements.

1. Requirements for BOYS
   • Be at least 11 years old and a graduate of the 5th grade
   • Complete a Frontier Adventure event. (contact your district for details)
   • Be an active member of a chartered Royal Rangers outpost.
   • Complete all requirements for the following skill merits: Camping and First Aid Skills (or First Aid/CPR).
2. Requirements for LEADERS
   • Be at least 18 years old.
   • Complete a Frontier Adventure event. (contact your district for details)
   • Be an active member of a chartered Royal Rangers outpost.
   • Be in good standing in your church, regularly practicing a Christlike lifestyle.
   • Earn the READY and SAFETY levels of the Outpost Leader Advancement Levels of training.

Information on additional requirements for Buckskin and Wilderness Frontiersman status can be found in the FCF Handbook, available from MyHealthyChurch.com (item #020540).