USS Slater Camping Trip

When and Where

When: Week of April 25, 2026 (tentative)

Troop 23 heads back to Albany, New York for an overnight aboard the USS Slater (DE-766) — the last destroyer escort still afloat in America. Moored on the Hudson River, this fully restored World War II warship offers scouts a chance to explore the decks, sleep in authentic sailor bunks, and experience what naval life was like during the Battle of the Atlantic.

The Troop has visited the Slater before — most recently in fall 2022 — and it remains one of our most memorable destinations. This spring, we're adding another chapter to our growing tradition of overnight stays aboard historic warships, following visits to the USS Intrepid and the Battleship New Jersey.

We're still finalizing the format — this may be a two-night trip with a Friday departure and a campground stop en route, or a Saturday overnighter straight to the ship. Details will be posted here as the plan takes shape.

About the USS Slater

During World War II, 563 destroyer escorts were built to protect Allied convoys from U-boat attacks in the Atlantic and defend naval task forces in the Pacific. Of all those ships, USS Slater (DE-766) is the only one still afloat in the United States.

The ship has been painstakingly restored over more than 25 years — entirely by volunteers, with no regular government funding. Today she serves as a floating museum and memorial, giving visitors a rare firsthand look at the cramped quarters, narrow passageways, and working equipment that defined life aboard a wartime escort vessel.

Scouts who've slept aboard the Intrepid or the Battleship New Jersey will notice the difference right away — the Slater is far smaller. A destroyer escort was built for speed and endurance, not comfort, and that tight-quarters feel is part of what makes the overnight so memorable.

What to bring

Spring weather in the Albany area can be unpredictable — and a steel warship on the river stays cool even when it's warm outside. Dress in layers and be ready for chilly nights below deck.

• ⧠ Ten Essentials as always
• ⧠ Backpack as always
• ⧠ Class B
• ⧠ Warm Clothes — layers are key
• ⧠ Rain Jacket
• ⧠ Warm Shoes
• ⧠ Hydration — Refillable water bottle
• ⧠ Writing instrument
• ⧠ Executed Troop permission from ScoutBook
• ⧠ USS Slater Waiver

Activities and opportunities

The overnight aboard the Slater is just part of the experience. Additional activities are in the works, including possible service hours and advancement opportunities.

On past Albany trips, the Troop has visited the Underground Railroad Education Center — a powerful look at the history of freedom seekers in the Capital Region. A return visit is under consideration, along with other historic stops in the area.

Full itinerary and logistics will be posted as they're confirmed — check back for updates!