Required Training for Cub Scout Pack Camping
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one‑and‑a‑half day course designed as an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their Pack activities.
BALOO training consists of two required components: an online prerequisite completed through My.Scouting and an overnight outdoor camping experience conducted in person.
Completion of BALOO training is mandatory for a minimum of one adult leader on any Cub Scout Pack overnighter. This requirement ensures that Packs conduct outdoor activities in a way that is safe, age‑appropriate, and aligned with Cub Scout camping policies.
- Required for Cub Scout Pack overnighters
- Combination of online and in‑person training
- Designed for new and experienced leaders
What Is BALOO Training?
BALOO provides Cub Scout leaders with the foundational knowledge needed to plan, organize, and lead Pack‑level outdoor activities. The course introduces leaders to the policies, procedures, and best practices that apply specifically to Cub Scout camping.
BALOO is intentionally designed as an introductory course. It emphasizes safety, preparedness, and fun, while helping adult leaders feel confident taking Cub Scouts outdoors—even if they have little or no prior camping experience.
The training uses hands‑on learning and practical examples to demonstrate how well‑planned outdoor activities support the Cub Scout program and create positive experiences for youth and families.
Who Should Take BALOO Training?
BALOO training is intended for Cub Scout adult leaders who plan to participate in or lead Pack camping activities. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Cubmasters and Assistant Cubmasters
- Den Leaders
- Pack Committee Members
- Registered adult leaders or parents attending Pack overnighters
The course is especially valuable for leaders who may not have camped recently—or ever, have limited outdoor experience, or were not Scouts themselves. BALOO is intentionally designed as an introduction and focuses on providing clear guidance and build confidence, while emphasizing safety and fun.
BALOO Training Requirements
Two Required Components
To be considered BALOO trained, leaders must complete both of the following components:
Online Prerequisite Training
The online portion of BALOO is completed through My.Scouting. This prerequisite introduces leaders to key concepts and policies so that in‑person training time can focus on hands‑on learning and outdoor application.
In‑Person Overnight Outdoor Training
The in‑person component is an overnight camping experience that reinforces Cub Scout camping guidelines through practical activities, demonstrations, and group participation. Leaders experience the course using a Cub Scout‑appropriate camping model.
What You Will Learn in BALOO
BALOO provides a broad introduction to the skills and considerations involved in Cub Scout Pack camping. Course content focuses on planning and delivering outdoor activities that are safe, organized, and enjoyable for Cub Scouts and their families.
Topics covered during BALOO training include:
- Planning and leading successful Cub Scout Pack campouts
- Campsite selection and proper campsite setup
- Health and safety considerations for Cub Scout camping
- Campfire programs, outdoor ceremonies, and large group games
- Basic outdoor skills, equipment use, and camping preparation
- Cooking and food safety in a Cub Scout camping environment
Participants take part in hands‑on activities and group experiences that model how Cub Scout leaders can deliver engaging outdoor programs while following camping guidelines.
Youth Protection and Leadership Requirements
Youth safety is a fundamental part of every Scouting activity. All registered adult leaders and registered adults serving in leadership or supervisory roles at any Scouting overnight activity must have current Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT). Safeguarding Youth Training is a required component of Scouting’s commitment to providing a safe environment for youth participants.
In addition to Safeguarding Youth Training:
- Two‑deep leadership is required at all times.
- BALOO training is required for Cub Scout Pack overnighters.
- Packs may conduct campouts for two (2) consecutive nights at sites approved by the Scouting America Council in which it is located (NCAC’s certified camping area list).
- Adults supervising or leading activities must be adequately trained, experienced, and qualified.
These requirements apply to official Scouting events and help ensure Cub Scout outdoor activities are delivered safely and responsibly in accordance with national standards.
Upcoming BALOO Training Dates
BALOO training is offered multiple times throughout the year based on council or district scheduling and availability.
Use the calendar below to view upcoming BALOO courses, training locations, and registration details for National Capital Area Council.
BALOO Training FAQ
BALOO training is offered multiple times throughout the year based on council or district scheduling and availability.
Use the calendar below to view upcoming BALOO courses, training locations, and registration details for National Capital Area Council.
Is BALOO required for Cub Scout camping?
Yes. Completion of Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is mandatory for a minimum of one adult leader on any Cub Scout Pack overnighter.
Packs are strongly encouraged to have more than one BALOO‑trained leader attend camping events. If the required BALOO‑trained leadership is no longer present, the Pack may no longer meet the requirements to conduct the overnighter, and the activity may need to be concluded.
How long is BALOO training?
BALOO is a one‑and‑a‑half day course that includes an online prerequisite and an overnight outdoor camping experience.
Do I need prior camping experience to take BALOO?
No. BALOO is designed as an introduction to Cub Scout outdoor activities and is appropriate for leaders with little or no prior camping experience.
Is Safeguarding Youth Training required?
Yes. All adults attending any Scouting overnight activity must have current Safeguarding Youth Training, in addition to those specifically BALOO trained.
Is BALOO required for family camping?
BALOO requirements apply to official Scouting events. Family camping conducted outside of Scouting does not fall under these requirements, but this training is a great resource to have completed to keep your family safe while camping.
What is the Scouts BSA version of BALOO training?
The Scouts BSA equivalent to BALOO is Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS), which prepares adult leaders to support troop‑level outdoor activities.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) is a hands-on course that provides adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts BSA Scouts in the out-of-doors. Upon completion, leaders should feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank. Along with Scoutmaster Specifics this course is required for all direct-contact leaders registered in Scouts BSA Troops in order to be considered “trained”.
Complete Your BALOO Training Today!
BALOO training ensures that Cub Scout camping is safe, organized, and fun for both youth and adults. Whether your Pack camps once a year or multiple times, having trained leaders makes all the difference.
Step 1: Complete Online Prerequisite Training Courses
The online portion of BALOO is completed through My.Scouting. This prerequisite introduces leaders to key concepts and policies so that in‑person training time can focus on hands‑on learning and outdoor application.
Step 2: Register for an In‑Person Overnight Outdoor Training Session
The in‑person component is an overnight camping experience that reinforces Cub Scout camping guidelines through practical activities, demonstrations, and group participation. Leaders experience the course using a Cub Scout‑appropriate camping model.
Step 3: Attend the In‑Person Overnight Outdoor Training Session
Make sure to bring the following:
- Completed Medical Forms A&B
- Any paperwork showing completed prerequisite training, safeguarding youth training, etc.
- Camping equipment
- Meal items needed as directed in specific registration (mess kit, meals, etc.)
- Valid photo ID
NO PAPERWORK = NO TRAINING
Additional items might be required for your specific training. Please make sure to read your registration instructions and any additional attachments within the registration event.
For any further instructions, additional questions, or registration issues: look for the point of contact within the event registration for your specific training session, they will be able to best help you since they will be leading the course.
