As a volunteer-run organization, FSC relies on cultural and social bonds, as well as enthusiasm of participants, for support and staffing rather than monetary incentive.

The end of a main standing camp is usually marked by two major events, Merrymoot and Lodge Common Council.

Merrymoot is an expanded campfire session where the whole camp gathers to entertain one another with sketches improvisations, and traditional songs.

Lodge Common Council is a formal occasion, usually on the final night, where the entire camp gathers around a special fire.

Once the fire is burning, campers review the camp and may suggest changes in activities or emphasis for the following year.

As most camps take place before September, this means it is possible to have campers whose ages do not exactly fit with the groupings listed above (e.g. 15-year-old Pathfinders).

There are several different identifiable types: These are set in regularly used locations, at sites generally used for many years, and where a relationship has been built up with the landowners.

These skills are consolidated by the 'hike', during which each age group walks with its staff away from the site for two, three or four nights, taking just their essential camping gear with them.

These are run and organised by FSC associates, usually parents of child campers, but can also include staff from children's camps.

The historical records of the Forest School Camps are held in the Archives of the community Institute of Education, University of London and a full catalogue can be found on-line.