Camp Whispering Pines

Camp Whispering Pines (CWP) is nestled in a unique longleaf pine forest. The science of this threatened habitat, many well established trails, progressive camping sites and varied aquatic facilities provide diverse program opportunities. A trained Outdoor Leader is needed to accompany each group - see Outdoor Training.

CWP is ideal for the more experienced camper as the site demands lots of walking.

CWP is located near Independence, LA. It is home to the Council's summer resident camp program. The site and the summer camp program are accredited by the American Camp Association, a symbol of quality camping.

The ecologically significant longleaf pine forest of CWP is designated as a "Stewardship Forest." Arbor Day, Eco-Management weekend and many other service opportunities help to involve girls in the science of the camp's management.

Click here to reserve space online for your troop at Camp Whispering Pines or McFadden Cabin (both now open). Download the form (PDF format) and mail it in today!

Click on the following to view each facility at CWP:

Camping facilities

Camping facilities include day use areas, cabin units, Troop House (slumber party), platform tent units, semi-primitive and ground tent camping sites. The dining hall and a cabin unit provide wheelchair access.

Water facilities

Camp Whispering Pines' aquatic facilities include: swimming pool, 23 acre Timber Lake, Tangipahoa River, and Indian Creek. Timber Lake has sites for fishing, rowboating and canoeing. Fishing is allowed from the barge and on the water's edge at Timber Lake - bring your own poles and bait. Troops request use of pool and boats on camp reservation form.

A currently certified lifeguard must be present and supervise all water activities that involve water above the knees of the participants.

An individual currently certified in Small Craft Safety must supervise all boating activities. A lifeguard and an appropriate boating instructor (two people) are necessary if an individual certified in Small Craft Safety is not secured. Current certifications issued by the YMCA and Red Cross are recognized by the Council. In addition to the lifeguard or individual certified in Small Craft Safety, the troop provides one watcher for every 10 swimmers or boaters.

When in a boat, all persons must wear personal flotation devices.

Lifeguards are secured for boating and swimming. The troop pays the guard, at the time of the activity, at the rate of $10 per hour per troop. Troops must provide adult watchers at the ratio of one adult to every 10 girls.

Nature Trails

A network of nature trails wind along with the camp's Indian Creek. The trail starts on a piney ridge and drops down to hardwoods. A popular addition to the trail includes an adventurous creek crossing that leads to the Tangipahoa River. The accompanying interpretative trail guide may be partially downloaded by clicking here (3.86MB - To view this guide, downloading it to your computer is recommended. You can do this by right-clicking on the link and choosing "Save Target As..." from the menu.). The full nature trail guide is available by mail - request it from camping@girlscoutssela.org by providing street address.