Once every two years, the Dan Beard Council calls all Scouts to the banks of the Little Miami River for a unique gathering – Peterloon, the longest continuously operating camporee in the history of Scouting – a council tradition since 1927.

Back in 1927, the first Peterloon took place at Peterloon Farm, the estate of a prominent Cincinnati family, the Emerys. Over the years, the event kept the name, even after moving to other locations, such as a county park and a local airport. By 1965, Peterloon was located at the Dan Beard Scout Reservation Lower Camp Craig, where it has been held ever since.

The first event was created so that Scouts could make their own camping equipment and do more camping as a patrol on an overnight basis. In 1927, 300 Scouts and leaders participated in the first camporee. Peterloon has retained a reputation for its fundamental approach to patrol competition, hands on experiences, and outdoor fun in the scouting traditions.

Some memories that the Council still talks about include the 1967 Peterloon, where pro football star quarterback Fran Tarkenton tossed a football to astronaut John Glenn at the Saturday evening campfire. Another year, the opening ceremony dazzled the participants with red, white, and blue aerial fireworks set off at the “rockets’ red glare” part in the national anthem. They were followed by red and white aerial fireworks during the playing of the Canadian national anthem, in honor of the many visiting Canadian troops. Other Peterloon ceremonies have featured a massing of the flags, including as many as 200-unit flags crossing the arena area. Such is the pageantry that each Peterloon has to offer.

Since the mid-1950’s Peterloon has been held every other year. Waiting two years for the next event increases anticipation as participants look forward to what for many is both a celebration of Scouting and a reunion for scouts of all ages.