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Roving Outdoor Conservation School (ROCS) Trek

  • 21 days and nights

  • Fee: $995 (2025)

  • Register: By individual
  • Season: Summer
  • Age: 16 years old by the start date and not yet 21 by the end date
  • Crew Size: Provisional Crew will be organized by Philmont
  • Leadership: 2 adult leaders provided by Philmont
  • Registration: Anytime
Register here
Scholarship Application

The Roving Outdoor Conservation School (ROCS) is an exciting 21-day program for Scouts who have an interest in conservation and natural resource management. A wide variety of unique conservation projects, hands-on science, special backcountry program, and visits from natural resource professionals give participants an in-depth look at the science driving modern land management and conservation. 

Overview

The aim of all ROCS treks is to use adventure, learning and expedition behavior to foster a unique relationship between each participant and Philmont. Through hands-on learning in its forests, rivers, alpine meadows and mountaintops, participants will learn to be inquisitive and engaged in the native world around them. Participants will leave Philmont with a deeper appreciation for the land and will have backpacking and leadership skills that can be applied to their future adventures.

2024 Session Dates

Session #1: June 15 – July 6

Session #2: June 23 – July 14

Session #3: July 12 – August 2

*All ROCS sessions are Co-ed.

Participant Requirements

To participate in the ROCS program, participants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 16 years old by the date the program begins and not yet 21 by the date it ends.
  • Be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America.
  • Be in excellent physical condition, able to hike 10 or more miles with a 50-pound backpack and able to lift and handle materials up to 75 pounds.
  • Have strong camping and backpacking skills; previous Philmont experience is not mandatory but is strongly recommended.
  • Complete a BSA Annual Health and Medical Record.  Philmont height and weight requirements will be strictly enforced.
  • To comply with the BSA Youth Protection requirements, each session must have a minimum of two participants from the same gender attend. Individual youth participants may register without a buddy of the same gender, however, if no other youth participants of the same gender register, your session date may need to change or be canceled to comply with BSA Youth Protection requirements.

Program Fee/Scholarships

The fee for ROCS is $995 in 2025. A $150 deposit is required with this application with the remaining balance due at the time of acceptance into the program. Additional expenses, including travel to and from Philmont, as well as miscellaneous purchases, are the responsibility of the participant. Scholarships are available on a limited basis.

Additional Information

Feel free to contact us with any questions at philmont.conservation@scouting.org.

2024 ROCS Info

Individual Trek Financial Assistance

Shuttle Information

Click this link for shuttle information:  https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/ptc/planningyourvisit/getting-to-philmont/