What is Encampment?

Encampment is a week-long leadership and training experience that immerses Civil Air Patrol cadets in the challenges and opportunities of cadet life. It is considered the centerpiece of a cadet’s first year and is one of the most memorable experiences in the CAP Cadet Program.

Cadets learn through hands-on experiences while living in a structured, military-style environment. Throughout the week, cadets develop teamwork, discipline, confidence, and leadership skills while exploring aerospace, emergency services, leadership, and character development.

Encampment is challenging, structured, and rewarding, preparing cadets to become dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders.

 

Mission and Purpose

The purpose of encampment is to help cadets:

• Develop leadership skills

• Explore aerospace science and aviation careers

• Experience the value of physical fitness

• Strengthen character and commitment to CAP’s Core Values

Each encampment is designed to challenge cadets in a positive and age-appropriate environment that emphasizes teamwork, integrity, respect, and excellence.

 

Encampment Philosophy

Encampment reflects five key elements of cadet life:

The Uniform
Cadets learn to wear the uniform properly while demonstrating discipline, professionalism, and pride.

Aerospace Themes
Encampment includes hands-on aerospace education, STEM learning, and exposure to aviation careers.

Opportunities to Lead
Cadets learn leadership through responsibility, service, and mentorship from experienced cadets and senior members.

Challenge
Cadets overcome mental and physical challenges designed to build resilience and confidence.

Fun
Encampment builds friendships and lasting memories through shared experiences and teamwork.

Who Attends

Encampment participants are organized into four groups:

Students
First-time cadets attending to complete their required encampment experience.

Cadet Cadre
Experienced cadets who serve as leaders, mentors, and instructors.

Advanced Students
Returning cadets participating in advanced leadership and training opportunities.

Senior Staff
Adult CAP members who supervise, mentor, and support cadets throughout the activity.

 

Curriculum Highlights

Encampment follows the national curriculum outlined in the Cadet Encampment Guide and includes instruction in several core areas:

• Leadership and Character Development

• Aerospace Education and STEM

• Physical Fitness and Wellness

• Teamwork and Followership

• Military Traditions and Ceremonies

Activities may include leadership laboratories, drill and ceremonies, physical training, aerospace tours, emergency services demonstrations, and team-building exercises designed to build confidence and resilience.

Encampments are structured to provide a balanced mix of academic instruction, hands-on learning, and leadership development.

 

Training Environment

Encampment uses an Air Force-style training model that emphasizes professionalism, discipline, and teamwork. The goal is to create a challenging but positive learning environment.

Encampment is not a boot camp. Cadets are treated with dignity and respect at all times, and hazing or abusive behavior is strictly prohibited.

All staff members complete Required Staff Training before the activity begins to ensure a safe and professional training environment.

Health and Safety

Encampment is conducted under CAP safety policies and activity safety guidance.

Medical support is provided on site to assist with:

• Medication administration

• First aid and medical concerns

• Health monitoring throughout the activity

Safety officers and trained senior members supervise all activities to ensure the wellbeing of every participant.

Encampment leadership also conducts risk management assessments, emergency planning, and safety briefings prior to and during the activity.

 

Cost and Financial Assistance

Encampment tuition is $250, which includes:

• Meals

• Lodging

• Training materials

• Activity supplies

Cadets who need financial assistance may apply for the Cadet Encampment Assistance Program (CEAP), sponsored by the U.S. Air Force. This program can cover tuition and travel costs for eligible cadets.

Additional information about CEAP can be found HERE

 

Graduation Requirements

To graduate from encampment and earn the Encampment Ribbon, cadets must:

• Participate in at least 80 percent of scheduled training hours

• Demonstrate adherence to CAP Core Values

• Complete all required academic and leadership training

Graduation recognizes a cadet’s successful completion of the CAP encampment experience and prepares them for future leadership opportunities within the Cadet Program.

 

PRICES

Student Pricing - $250

Cadre Pricing - $250

Staff Pricing - $100

Full Refund: on or before 01 April 2026

50% Refund: on or before 15 April 2026

No Refund: on or after 01 May 2026

Final Payment Deadline: 01 May 2026

Payments are made in RegistrationZone

 

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation to and from the activity is not the responsibility of CAP or Tennessee Wing.

 

NO AIRPORT SHUTTLE

There will not be an airport shuttle as no nearby airports have commercial traffic.  Please coordinate transportation issues/situations personally with the Encampment Staff via tnwgencampment@tncap.us

 

PRIVATELY-OWNED VEHICLES

ALL Cadets (including cadre) who drive to encampment must turn in their vehicle keys to the transportation and logistics officer (no exceptions)

 

IN-PROCESSING

In-Processing will be the 18th of July.  Specific instructions will be sent out closer to Encampment as we finalize our plan for the smoothest, quickest plan for everyone involved.

 

OUT-PROCESSING & GRADUATION

Graduation will be on the 24th of July for Staff, Cadre and Students.  Staff and Cadre will not leave until we are signed out of the facility by the Army

Out-Processing instructions will be given closer to the end of Encampment

DEADLINES

Cadet Cadre Applications are due 5 March 2026

Senior Staff Applications are due 1 June 2026

Student Applications are open until 1 June 2026

 

SCHOLARSHIPS

Cadet Encampment Assistant Fund (CEAP) for Summer Activities opens March 15th 2026 and closes April 15 2026.  If you are wanting assistance in paying for your Encampment, please complete the application HERE

 

HEALTH SERVICES

Please ensure your current health information is updated in the Health Portal in eServices

 

NO AIRPORT SHUTTLE

There will not be an airport shuttle as no nearby airports have commercial traffic.  Please coordinate transportation issues/situations personally with the Encampment Staff via tnwgencampment@tncap.us

 

CORPORATE VEHICLES

Senior Members are encouraged to bring a CAP van to the encampment, but this needs to be prearranged to ensure we have the budget for fuel reimbursement and other advanced planning. Vans shall be turned in to the Encampment Transportation/ Logistics officer upon arrival and shall arrive with a full tank of fuel. Vans will be returned to the driver on the night before departure with a full tank of fuel. Fuel costs for travel to and from encampment will be reimbursed with confirmation from the transportation & logistics officer.

If you wish to donate your van to Encampment for the week, please contact us a tnwgencampment@tncap.us

 

CARPOOLING

Carpooling is encouraged, but the encampment staff is unable to assist in this coordination. It's recommended to ask within your squadron first.