Try the outdoors before investing in gear.
Borrow quality camping equipment — completely free — and adventure alongside your Scout.
Getting Started
Our Gear Lending Library makes it easy for families to get outdoors without the upfront cost of buying equipment. Here's how to borrow gear from Troop 87:
Check out what's available below. We have tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear, fishing equipment, backpacks, and more.
?Reach out via email or phone to reserve your gear ahead of the campout. We'll confirm availability and arrange pickup.
?Complete our simple lending agreement — you agree to take care of the equipment and return it in good working condition.
?Pick up your gear, head out on the adventure, and return everything with the completed checklist after your trip.
What We Have
All gear is available at no charge. Many items have been generously donated by troop families and the community. Availability varies — contact us to confirm before your trip.
Spacious family tent perfect for a full family campout. Nearly vertical walls maximize interior space. Sets up in about 5 minutes.
Classic dome tent ideal for couples or small families. Awning-style door for extra shade and ventilation. Easy setup for first-timers.
Compact and lightweight — great for a parent and child or smaller family outing. Freestanding design sets up without stakes.
Donated
Complete camp kitchen setup. Includes pots, pans, utensils, cutting board, and camp stove. Everything you need to cook a full meal outdoors.
Available
Comfortable sleeping bags rated to 40°F — perfect for Texas camping year-round. Available in adult and youth sizes.
Sturdy, fold-flat camp chairs with cup holders. Great for sitting around the campfire after a long day of hiking and adventure.
Limited
Assorted hiking backpacks ranging from daypacks to 40L overnight packs. Multiple sizes available for adults and youth scouts.
Freshwater fishing poles with pre-spooled reels and a complete tackle box. Great for Merit Badge work or a relaxing afternoon at the lake.
Nesting cookware set including a large pot, saucepan, and non-stick skillet. Compact, easy to pack, and perfect for campout meals.
Borrowing Policy
All of our equipment has been donated or purchased through troop fundraising. We ask all borrowers to treat it as their own and return it in good working condition so the next family can enjoy it too.
After Your Trip
When returning gear, please take 5 minutes to check each item and note its condition. This helps us maintain our inventory and ensures every family gets great equipment on their adventure.
? Print / Download ChecklistKeep the Library Growing
Our gear library runs entirely on the generosity of our community. Donations of equipment or funds help us replace worn items, add new gear, and ensure every family has access to quality outdoor equipment.
Whether it's a gently used tent, a set of cooking gear, or a financial donation to purchase new equipment — every contribution directly benefits the scouts and families of Troop 87.
Contact Us to DonateCommon Questions
No! The Gear Lending Library is open to prospective families who want to try camping before committing to Scouting. We encourage you to join a campout and see if it is a good fit for your family.
Completely free. Our gear has been donated or purchased through troop fundraising and is made available as a community service. Donations are always appreciated but never required.
We recommend contacting us at least one week before your campout to ensure availability, especially for tents and cooking equipment. Reach out earlier for peak camping weekends.
Accidents happen outdoors — we understand. Please note any damage on the return checklist and let us know. We will work with you to find a fair resolution. Honest reporting helps us keep the library in great shape for everyone.
Yes! Families are welcome to use the gear for any outdoor adventure — not just Troop 87 events. We just ask that it is returned in good condition and on time.
Pickup and return is coordinated through our weekly Tuesday meetings at Community of Faith Church, 6606 Weber Rd. Special arrangements can be made by contacting us directly.
Yes! We have youth-size sleeping bags and smaller backpacks suitable for younger scouts. Let us know your children's ages when you request gear so we can make sure everything fits.
Absolutely — donations are one of the best ways to support the library! Bring gently used gear in good working condition to any Tuesday meeting or contact us to arrange a drop-off. Every donation goes directly to a scout or family.
Get Outside
Contact us today to check availability and reserve your equipment. Our troop leadership is happy to walk you through everything you need for a great first campout.
Submit a Gear Request