joetrekker

I would think the intent of the snow camping is not to have snow, but to deal with the sub-freezing and sub-zero temperatures on an outing.  That means the San Diego scouts get off the beach catching rays and head for the higher elevations for the possibility of catching some snow.  If not, the scout can still learn what it takes to "winter/snow/cold" camping.

The items that I posted above:

1. May be taken in any location.
2. Campsite must be snow-covered.
3. Prepare at least two meals in camp.
4. Minimum of one night of camping.

are the items needed to receive the Greater LA Area Council's HAT badge for Snow Hiking. The Los Padres Council HAT team has a "Polar Bear" award that requires an area covered with snow. The Desert Pacific Council's HAT team has a "Snow Camper" award that requires 2" of snow or more.

At least in Southern California, the various council HAT groups all tie "snow" to actually camping on snow. I can't see why the camping merit badge wouldn't actually require snow if they specify it. If you can't get to snow, then you can satisfy the requirement via the other options.

I'd say that the experience:

1. May be taken in any location.
2. Campsite must be snow-covered.
3. Prepare at least two meals in camp.
4. Minimum of one night of camping.