The Outdoor Program Committee
The Outdoor Programs Committee Guide, No. 430-935, is designed to help councils and districts offer a balanced outdoor program that delivers the promise of Scouting—from Cub Scouting to Venturing and Sea Scouting. The publication emphasizes integration of partner committees (Conservation, COPE/Climbing, Aquatics, Fishing, Shooting, Properties, Maintenance, Risk Management, and Health and Safety) to achieve the program goals of the council. The appendix includes a self-assessment tool to help councils identify areas for improvement.
The Cub Scout Outdoor Program
Cub Scout Day Camp introduces Cub Scouts to camping and helps them develop outdoor skills at an age-appropriate level that will later be applied more thoroughly as a Scout. For information and resources on Cub Scout Day Camp Click HERE.
Cub Scouting offers overnight camping opportunities for Cub Scouts through resident camps, Webelos den overnight campouts, council-organized family camps, and pack overnighters. For more information on Cub Scout camping guidelines click here.
Pack Overnight Site Appraisal Form This site appraisal form is to be used by the local BSA council to evaluate pack overnight family camping locations. It should be kept on file in the council office for local unit reference and is periodically reviewed for accuracy.
The Scouts BSA Outdoor Program
Outdoor adventure is the promise made to boys and girls when they join Scouting. Young people yearn for outdoor programs that stir their imagination and interest. Learn More about the Scouts BSA Outdoor Program.
Inspired Outdoor Adventures
During the 2019 National Annual Meeting, the Camping Subcommittee presented a program called “Inspired Outdoor Adventure”. The discussion introduced concepts for Unit level creation of exciting and inspiring outdoor activities that entice Scouts to experience new and stretching opportunities in the outdoors. The Subcommittee also introduced The Adventure Plan (TAP) now available on tap.scouting.org which provides Unit leaders a digital tool kit of all resources useful in planning and conducting outdoor adventures. Also introduced were Google Maps of 55 Council operated High Adventure bases and 192 Historic Trails. These are great tools for outdoor adventure serving the new Scouting market place of boys and girls (49.8 MM total youth in America).
Scout Outdoor Awards
There are several awards related to the Outdoor Programs of the BSA that can supplement your Scout BSA experience. Click here to learn about these awards and recognition.
Outdoor Literature
For a full list of outdoor literature click here