Home > High Adventure Opportunities > Individual Treks > Roving Outdoor Conservation School (ROCS) Trek

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 a 21-day program for Scouts interested in conservation and natural resource management. Participants engage in unique conservation projects, hands-on scientific activities, and backcountry programs while meeting with natural resource professionals to learn about modern land management.

The program aims to foster a strong connection between each participant and Philmont through adventurous, hands-on experiences in nature. By the end, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the land, along with valuable backpacking and leadership skills for their future adventures.

2025 Session Dates

Session #1: June 12 – July 3

Session #2: June 19 – July 10

Session #3: July 7 – 28

Session #4: July 17 – August 7

*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 Scouting 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 Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record.  Philmont height and weight requirements will be strictly enforced.
  • To comply with Scouting America 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 Scouting America 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

Shuttle Information

View shuttle and transport information here.