Seventy-five boys ages 10-13 are attending Caddo Sheriff's Camp at the Garland Scout Ranch this week with hopes that they'll return home to become Boy Scouts.

The annual camp sponsored by Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator combines fun, outdoor activities like camping, swimming, and target shooting, with programs that build character and develop citizenship.

Sheriff's Camp is held annually in cooperation with the Boy Scouts of America, Norwela Council. There is no charge for the camp since Sheriff Prator seeks citizen contributions to pay for transportation, meals, lodging and other camp fees.

"The boys who have been selected to attend have done well in school and deserve to be rewarded, but some may not have the means to attend camp on their own," Sheriff Prator said. "Many aren’t currently involved in the scouting program but will go on to become scouts after completing camp.”

Caddo deputies wearing plain-clothes will serve as mentors and motivators during the campers’ stay. “Our deputies look forward to this every year,” Prator said. "One of the benefits of camp is that it’s a great opportunity to do something good for kids and to see them develop into citizens who will have a respect for law and their community.”

Campers arrived at Garland on Sunday and will return home by noon on Wednesday.