Ben "Bob" Rogers Dutch Oven Cook Off

Sunday, August 23, 2026 * Camp Loud Thunder

Fire up the coals and bring your favorite recipe to Camp Loud Thunder for the 3rd Annual Ben "Bob" Rogers Dutch Oven Cook Off! This annual tradition honors the memory of a longtime Illowa Council Scouter whose love of outdoor cooking, fellowship, and service left a lasting impact on generations of Scouts. Whether you're competing or simply coming to taste, you'll enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, friendly competition, and Scouting camaraderie while supporting future improvements at camp.

Whether you're a seasoned camp chef or trying Dutch oven cooking for the first time, this event is a great opportunity to share your favorite dish, sample a variety of delicious recipes, and cast your vote for the People's Choice winner. Best of all, proceeds from the event help support capital projects at Camp Loud Thunder.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026
• Cooking Begins: 11:30 AM
• Public Tasting: 1:30 PM
• Event Concludes: 3:00 PM
• Location: Camp Loud Thunder, 9906 175th St W, Illinois City, IL
• Cost: $5.00 per person (includes a commemorative engraved sampling spoon!)

Everyone is welcome! This event is open to:

• Scouters
• Scout families
• Friends of Scouting
• Anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking and great food

Whether you're entering a dish or simply coming to taste and vote, you'll have a great afternoon at camp.

If you're cooking, bring along:

• Your Dutch oven and outdoor cooking equipment
• Ingredients for your favorite Dutch oven recipe
• Your best camp cooking skills!

All attendees should bring:

• Personal table service (plate, bowl, utensils, etc.)
• Drinks for themselves

People's Choice Voting

Every attendee has the opportunity to sample the entries and vote for their favorite Dutch oven creation. Bring your appetite and help crown the winner of the 2026 Ben "Bob" Rogers Dutch Oven Cook Off!

Online registration closes Thursday, August 20, 2026, at midnight. Advance registration is encouraged.

Questions?

Event Questions:

• Harold Cover
• hcoverjr@aol.com
• 563-320-5372

Registration Questions:

• Illowa Council Service Center
• reservations@loudthunder.org
• 563-388-7233