Although Philmont remains open year-round with structured programs, the majority of visitors come in the summer months. Covering a 214-square-mile area, the Philmont Scout Ranch offers scouts a challenging wilderness venue for backpacking, with 34 staffed camps and 55 trail camps. Scouts also participate in horseback cavalcades, rock climbing, mountain biking, and visits to historical sites. The Boy Scouts of America operates its national volunteer training program at Philmont. For more information about the ranch, visit www.scouting.org/philmont.aspx.
About the author: In his youth, Wilson Neely participated in many camping adventures with the Boy Scouts of America. He currently practices corporate law at the New York firm of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP. In 2011, Super Lawyers selected Mr. Neely for inclusion in their September issue of New York Super Lawyers.