Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite

High on Kowloon Peak, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Fei Ngo Shan, lies the Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite. This isn’t just any campsite. It’s a place where history whispers through the trees and echoes in the laughter of young scouts. The Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite is a cornerstone of scouting in Hong Kong, a place where countless adventures have begun and lifelong memories have been forged. The story of the Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite begins in the 1940s with a small, unofficial campsite in Diamond Hill. As scouting’s popularity surged, the need for a larger space became evident. Chaiwan campsite, the association’s other site, was too remote for Kowloon scouts. During a Venture Scout competition in 1957 near Mau Tso Ngam, scout leaders stumbled upon an ideal location. It was open, near water, and south of Mau Tso Ngam. The association quickly applied for the land through the Tai Po District Office. In 1960, the Hong Kong Government granted the land, marking the birth of Gilwell Campsite. Three years of hard work transformed the site, adding campfire areas, camping facilities, and bridges. Tragedy struck in 1960 when Typhoon Mary destroyed the Golden Jubilee House. It was rebuilt in 1968. The Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite hosted its first major event, a jamboree, in 1967. This five-day event commemorated the 60th anniversary of the World Scout Movement. It was a beacon of hope amidst the social unrest of the 1967 riots. The jamboree welcomed scouts from across the territory and children from children’s homes. It was supported by the Hong Kong Government and the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club. The Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite, named after the renowned Gilwell Park in England, sits 430 meters above sea level. It occupies a 200,000-square-meter valley between Tung Yeung Shan and Tate’s Cairn. Streams crisscross the area, adding to its natural charm. A road winds from Kowloon, starting at Tate’s Pass in the south and continuing north to Mau Tso Ngam and Fu Yung Pei. Unlike other Scout Association campsites, Gilwell Campsite is dedicated solely to wild camping. There are no catering services here. Only a few buildings house offices, lecture rooms, and activity spaces. The Scout Association of Hong Kong Gilwell Campsite offers breathtaking views of Kowloon, Victoria Harbour, and Hong Kong Island. It’s a place where young scouts can connect with nature, learn valuable skills, and create lasting bonds. The spirit of adventure thrives here, ensuring that the legacy of scouting continues to flourish in Hong Kong.