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- Conservation & Environment
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- Cub Scouting
- Fishing
- National Jamboree
- National Outdoor Conference
- NCAP
- Outdoor Ethics/Leave No Trace
- Properties
- Range & Target Activities
- Safety
- Shooting Sports
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National Jamboree
The next National Jamboree will be held July 22-31, 2026, at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, WV. In case you have not heard, the theme is ELEVATE and this event will ELEVATE your Scouting and will be a life changing experience not just for your Scouts but for you as well.
So what is a Jamboree? It is Scouting’s premiere event where we gather with over 10,000 Scouts and Scouters who come together to celebrate the spirit of Scouting. The Jamboree is a life-changing experience for both youth and adults who attend. The memories and experiences they have last a lifetime. Friends that are made become lifelong companions and the shared experiences are talked about around campfires for years to come.
So you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity as it only comes around every few years. If you miss this one the next one won’t be until 2029.
Here are a few keys to ELEVATE your Jamboree knowledge.
- ELEVATE your community and learn that Scouting is bigger than just my unit. We plan to have an arena show (or two) to gather the entire Jamboree together to celebrate Scouting and have a great time. it is a sight to see everyone together and to help youth to understand that Scouting is bigger than just my unit, district or council. Scouting is all of us and we will showcase this when we bring everyone together.
- ELEVATE your Scouts by helping them come to the Jamboree! The Jamboree, like most things in Scouting, is only successful when we all work together. We need you to help promote the Jamboree to your unit, your district, your council and to your friends. We need you to help fill contingents of youth, so they do not miss this once in a lifetime event. Most Scouts will only have one opportunity to experience a Jamboree as a youth, so make sure that they don’t miss out.
- ELEVATE your Scouting Journey! The Jamboree relies on great volunteers to help us in all aspects of the event. We need people to run programs, help in administration, operations and logistics to name a few. There is a job for you! Like other parts of Scouting if there is something you like to do, you can do it at the Jamboree. So look to be a part of the largest “staff” in Scouting.
- ELEVATE your reach. If you are looking for some resources to help you get the word out, make sure to check out the Brand Center. Here you will find some social media ready photos and videos that you can share. You will also find the Jamboree “ELEVATE” theme logo and brand guidance. Click on this link to take you straight to the Jamboree resources. https://scouting.webdamdb.com/bp/#/folder/13228711/. Go take a look now at the great images, and videos and share a couple on your social channels… I’ll wait…
- ELEVATE your awareness. Now that you have seen (and shared) the videos, you are asking “How do I sign up?” Registration will open this fall, but until then keep up to date by signing up to receive notifications from us by visiting www.jamboree.scouting.org. Here you will find all the information you need about the Jamboree. Bookmark the site as this will be your main source of information for all things Jamboree. If you did not get a chance to see it, you should also check out the “Trek on Tuesday” where despite some technical difficulties, we shared some great information about the Jamboree. You can find that discussion here. – https://www.youtube.com/live/WOOKLGAp2Cg
The National Jamboree is Scouting premiere event so you definitely do not want to miss it. Make your plans now to participate as a contingent member or on the Jamboree Service Team (Staff). This will be our first Jamboree as Scouting America and you can’t say you have been to every Scouting America Jamboree if you miss the first one! Keep watching for more information and to get signed up.
NCAP
It’s that time of year again to change the calendar and share that the 2026 National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) Standards are here! Each year, the NCAP Committee collaborates with subject matter experts to carefully review and update these standards, ensuring they remain current, practical, and aligned with the values of Scouting America.
Every participant who attends a camp program expects an experience that is both safe and high-quality. Scouting America takes great pride in offering these programs, but maintaining our reputation for excellence takes all of us. Through NCAP, councils and camps can confirm they are meeting or exceeding the standards that uphold Scouting’s brand and mission.
It’s important to remember that the standards aren’t a list of new rules. Instead, they serve as a framework for support and are a resource designed to help staff locate guidance quickly and connect with the right documentation or experts when needed.
So, who should review the new standards? In short, everyone who is involved in camp operations. Whether you support day camps, short-term camps, or long-term camps, take time to read through the sections that apply to your area. The more familiar your team becomes with these expectations, the stronger and more confident your program will be.
You can access the full set of standards and related resources at www.scouting.org/ncap. Download a copy, learn more about the assessment process, and explore how you can contribute to continuous improvement. On this page you will also find the latest “NCAP circular” which will discuss the changes for 2026 and the reasoning behind the changes.
Together, we can make the Scouting experience even more impactful, because safety, quality, and growth start with all of us.
Fishing
Scouting America’s Complete Angler Award honors Scouts who earn all three fishing-related merit badges: Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish & Wildlife Management.
Fishing Merit Badge was one of the original merit badges and over two million have earned it. In a recent Boys’ Life survey, fishing placed 4th overall as the preferred outdoor activity, surpassed only by camping, swimming and bicycling. What better way to keep older Scouts involved than by expanding on this trend.
After completing the Complete Angler Recognition, these older Scouts can become mentors for younger Scouts, sharing their knowledge and helping others to enjoy a positive fishing experience.
To become eligible for the award, earn these three merit badges: Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management.
Then complete one or more of the following projects:
- Teach a Fishing or Fly-Fishing merit badge skill to your troop, crew or team as part of a unit program activity.
- Help instruct Cub Scouts on fishing skills or fishery management as part of a Cub Scout meeting or outing.
- Participate in a local fishing derby or tournament, either a Scouting or Community event.
- Complete a conservation project that will benefit a local fishery.
Upon completion, this recognition is available for order at your local Scout shop.
Resources:
Complete Angler Recognition Form
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Outdoor%20Program/pdf/Complete_Angler_Recognition.pdf
National Outdoor Conference
Thank You for Joining Us at the Scouting America National Outdoor Conference
We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated in the Scouting America National Outdoor Conference. With an incredible turnout of 407 participants representing 113 different councils, your enthusiasm and commitment made this event truly special.
We began the week talking about our connectedness and support for one another like the Coastal Redwoods by locking our arms together in a show of support. We then took a trip through your council camp and your staff to the tour of high adventure bases and the top of Kilimanjaro and then a long journey along the Appalachian trail. Through it all we worked to meet our conference theme of “Rooted in the Outdoors, Scouting’s Path Forward”.
This year’s conference featured 114 different electives, providing a wide range of hands-on learning opportunities that empowered all the camp leaders in attendance. The three outstanding general sessions were highlights of the event, especially the unforgettable Friday night presentation by Jennifer Pharr Davis. Jennifer captivated us with her inspiring stories about hiking and running the Appalachian Trail, including her remarkable record-setting run, completing the trail in just 46 days.
We also want to extend our sincere thanks to the 29 vendors and sponsors who supported the event, with special gratitude to our title sponsor, Black Pug Software, whose partnership helped make this gathering a great success.
From workshops to keynote sessions, each experience was enriched by your energy and passion. Thank you for making the time to be with us, for engaging fully in every moment, and for supporting the mission of Scouting America. Your dedication strengthens our community and inspires us to remain “Rooted in the Outdoors” as we move Scouting forward.
We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and continuing this journey together. Plan now for joining us in September of 2027 for the next National Outdoor Conference. Until then, keep exploring and stay connected!
NCAP
In 2013, Scouting America implemented the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP). NCAP was established to help councils elevate camps to new levels of excellence in delivering Scouting’s promise to youth. Since then, Councils have engaged in rigorous reviews of their camps and properties, challenged to have continuous improvement plans, while also reviewing their facilities and programs to eliminate any substandard practices.
The Outdoor Programs & Properties Team sat down with Steve Phillips, the National NCAP Committee Authorization Chair to talk about NCAP, explain the authorization process and why this first step may be the hardest but how it helps the council.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: So, what does “authorization” really mean to a local council?
Steve: Well, first let’s try to clear up a confusing word – and that word is camp. In Scouting America, camp can refer to a property, or to the program that is being conducted. So, because of this, Scouting America states that for a Scouting America Council to operate a camp, meaning the property or the program, they must be authorized to do this. When a council completes the NCAP Authorization, they are given authority to use Scouting America’s brand, operate Scouting America programs, and use Scouting America insurance for official Scouting America programs.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: So, are you saying the NCAP authorization gives a council the ability to operate all camps and programs?
Steve: Each council’s NCAP authorization will list the camp properties that they operate, and what types of camp programs they offer at that property. The property will then specifically be authorized to operate unit camping, day camps, short-term camps, and long-term camps on each camp property.
Through the national NCPA authorization, a council will also be authorized to locally “authorize” their council’s day camps and short-term camps throughout the council.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: What is all involved in the authorization and what are you looking for?
Steve: The actual authorization process starts with the “Analysis” step. During this step, the council will complete numerous documents looking at their properties and camp(s) through various lenses. They will gather the attendance and financial information on both the council, and the specific camp properties. They will also look at the facilities and the programs, which will assist them in creating plans for improvement. This planning stage is a key component to the overall authorization process by assisting the council in creating a year-by-year plan of improvement.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: Once the council gathers this information, what is the next step?
Steve: The next step is to share the data with their council’s leadership. By this I mean that the information that is gathered is only as good as what it is used for. The gathering of this data helps “paint a picture” of the property, its camps and how they effect the council. The board members may not always be able to get to the camp, this is an important way to bring camp to the board! Share the pictures of the camps, let them see what they have so that when the camp needs support or improvements, they have a better picture of why.
Also show how the camp(s) are doing financially. A lot of councils have found that they were subsidizing some of their camps, or all of them by a lot more than they realized. Once the board knows the true picture, then they can help solve the challenges. The final step of an authorization process is to have the board approve the authorization application. The application is then submitted to the National NCAP Committee.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: After the application is turned in, then what happens?
Steve: The National NCAP Authorization team has a team of trained volunteers, called authorization reviewers, that review the applications, evaluate the information provided and then write up the official “Authorization to Operate”. This authorization will include what types of camp programs are approved, while also identifying if there are any items that are needing to be looked at or done by the council. Then the documents are reviewed by a national staff member a final time to make certain that the reviewer did not miss anything and to make certain that it is a fair evaluation. The council is then sent the documents for them to sign and agree too.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: How many councils go through this process yearly?
Steve: Scouting America has about 250 councils and there are about 50 councils a year that complete this process. The authorizations are for 5 years so we try to level out the numbers to keep the process running smoothly.
Outdoor Programs & Properties: Is there anything else you would like everyone to know?
Steve: The NCAP Team realizes that there is a lot of time and energy that is put into the authorization, but we hope that everyone understands that the process is designed to benefit the council and their strategic planning. There are a lot of councils that have looked at their data and realized that they were not doing as well as they thought they were doing. There were expenses that they never took into consideration when looking at the bottom line. Through seeing these “challenges”, some councils have changed the way that they were doing things to make camp at least balance financially if not creating a revenue. They also started looked at the facilities with a different set of eyes. The authorization process is a crucial tool in the NCAP toolbox!
Camping / NCAP
As camp begins to wind down for most of us and we begin to think about closing procedures and closing inventories, one thing we need to focus on is our camp staff.
Camp staff can be some of the best and most vocal advocates for our camps and can be the best promoters of our camping programs. So how do we keep them engaged and involved year-round? And how can we leverage the feelings and energy they possess now to springboard us into the next season? Let’s explore some “secrets” to keeping camp staff involved and engaged.
- Do an inventory of staff before they leave camp. Have you asked them if they plan to return next season? It is not too soon to begin collecting applications and commitments now. Especially for those staff whom you know you are going to build upon for the next season. If you didn’t ask before they left, send them an email now! Tell them THANKS and encourage them to apply.
- What is your plan for next season? Have you developed your needs list today? Do you know of a staff member who you will need to replace? Have you looked toward your “bench” to see who is the next staff member that you want to develop and move into a leadership role? Get them committed today and offer them opportunities to get some additional training that will benefit you and your camp.
- Invite them to help you on a year-round basis. Most of our camps offer some programs on a weekend during the rest of the year and not just summer camp season. While some of our staff are away at school, but do they have your calendar of events for when they are home on a break or just want to get away from campus for a weekend? Share your program calendar and weekend needs. Several of our staff live close to camp and would love a way to connect with camp during the “off season” (and of course would not turn down a little cash to come out for a weekend and help run some of your activities). While you may not be able to pay, maybe you can work out some other option for them to come and help. Free food or some gas money go a long way to getting some help. BONUS: This is a part of NCAP standard RP-851.
- Have you invited them to visit or work for another camp? WAIT WHAT? You want me to send my staff to someone else? YES! One great way to show your staff you care about them and want the best for them is to help them earn some extra dollars during the summer. If you can’t offer a full summer season, connect them with another camp that starts when yours ends so that they can use those skills to help someone else. While this sounds counterintuitive, it will help them build loyalty to you and your camp as someone who cares about them and wants the best for them.
- Help them with a resume. Have you spoken to your staff about the marketable skills that they learn on camp staff? Set a time to meet with your staff and help them develop a resume stating the leadership opportunity they had or the budget management as a part of their role. Maybe they were in charge or inventory controls or cash handling. These skills translate to jobs outside of camp. Make sure they have you listed as a reference as well! For some great resources on this visit the American Camp Association (ACA) Project Real Job website. Here you will find some resources to help you and them in the process.
- Consider attending the ACA virtual staffing summit in October. This virtual event will help you get some practical solutions around addressing staffing shortages, and ways to recruit staff and best practices for staff retention. For information and to register visit the 2024 ACA staffing summit website.
- Host some events. There is no better way to keep the enthusiasm and camaraderie of camp going than to get the staff back together. Can you host a holiday party or a Labor Day reunion? Can you do something in the spring to help get camp ready or a work day at camp. The key is to have several opportunities to engage and keep them talking about camp year-round. This needs to be more than just when you send them the application for 2025. Send them a calendar of events so they can work it into their busy schedules now.
- Engage your alumni committee to host a networking event. Many of your camp staff alumni may be business leaders in your community. Reach out to them to host a networking event for your camp staff members. This is a great way for camp staff to connect with one another, but also to learn more about the industry they may want to be a part of. (BONUS – it keeps your past staff members involved as well).
- Begin promotion now. Once you take inventory of your camp needs, begin working now to promote these jobs and get on the recruiting trail. Connect with your staff who are in clubs at school and seek opportunities to meet those clubs and members. Share your job postings on the Scoutlife Jobs posting page.
- Be creative. You know your staff best. What can you do to keep in contact with them? Send a birthday card or special occasion card or simply a note to say you are thinking about them during exam time or the big game. Relationships are the key to keeping them and keeping them engaged.
Our camp staff are our greatest resource, and like all resources, they require care and maintenance to achieve the best results. Hope you can find some of these useful and that you can keep your staff engaged year-round, fostering a committed and enthusiastic team ready for the next camp season. Let’s keep our camp staff connected, to help them and camp be successful. Have an idea to share? Email it to outdoorprograms@scouting.org and we will share it in future articles on this subject!
Safety
The Council Health Supervisor (CHS) is a pivotal figure within Scouting America, dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of Scouts, leaders, and volunteers. While the position is often confused with the Camp Health Officer, this article shares the responsibilities, qualifications, and contributions of this essential role, shedding light on how the CHS ensures a safe and supportive environment for local councils.
Who is a Council Health Supervisor?
The CHS is a licensed physician who serves as the local council’s primary medical advisor, providing expertise and guidance on all health-related matters. This individual is also a registered Scouter trained in Youth Protection, ensuring a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by the Scouting community.
Qualifications of a Council Health Supervisor
To fulfill their responsibilities effectively, the CHS must:
- Be licensed to practice medicine in the state(s) where the council operates.
- Hold expertise relevant to camp and youth health and safety.
- Collaborate with other medical professionals when council programs span multiple states.
Core Responsibilities
The Council Health Supervisor plays a multifaceted role, encompassing oversight, education, and strategic input. Some key responsibilities include:
- Health Oversight and Risk Management
- Serves on the council’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) or Health and Safety Committee.
- Oversees camp health lodge operations and ensures compliance with national camp standards.
- Assists with reviewing the Council Medical Care Policies Manual each year (NCAP HS-505).
- Writes and approves the camp’s on-site treatment procedures or standing orders (NCAP HS-506).
- Reviews camp First Aid Logs and provides actionable feedback to improve care practices.
- Incident Reporting and Policy Approval
- Works with the council’s ERM committee to ensure health and safety incidents are properly reported.
- Reviews and approves medication processes and standing orders required by camp standards.
- Education and Training
- Assists in training and orienting health lodge staff.
- Provides health education on topics such as first aid, CPR/AED, and wilderness first aid to Scouts and leaders.
- Medical Guidance and Criteria Development
- Advise on medical guidelines for high-adventure activities and other programs where participant health may pose risks.
- Reviews medical records for participants attending national events to ensure compliance with health standards.
- Local Council Support
- Convenes and leads meetings on communicable disease management.
- Assists in interpreting and implementing national health guidelines as they relate to the local council.
- Develops medical communications for leaders, parents, and media as needed.
The CHS’s Impact on Scouting
By providing expert medical guidance, the Council Health Supervisor enhances the safety and preparedness of local councils. Their work helps to mitigate risks, ensure compliance with national standards, and foster a culture of health awareness within Scouting.
Through their collaboration with council leaders, the CHS plays a crucial role in shaping policies that protect Scouts, leaders, and volunteers, ensuring that every participant can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
The Council Health Supervisor is more than a medical advisor; they are a cornerstone of the Scouting community’s commitment to health and safety. Their expertise and dedication ensure that local councils can deliver transformative experiences to youth while upholding the highest standards of care.
Range & Target Activities
Effective January 1, 2026, Scouting America implemented the updated Range and Target Activities Manual. This revision reflects our ongoing commitment to safety, clarity, and providing engaging, age-appropriate program opportunities that meet the needs of today’s Scouts and leaders. You can find the new manual at https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/range-activities/
The update includes several important changes with the most notable being the addition of Atlatl as an approved program offering and the removal of the multigun airsoft program. Alongside these updates, the manual also incorporates a few other clarifications based on questions and feedback received from councils and volunteers across the country.
Thanks to the work of the National Range and Target Activities Committee, one of the most exciting updates in the 2026 manual is the addition of Atlatl to camp programs for Scouts BSA and older youth. Councils and camps looking to diversify their range and target offerings will find Atlatl to be an accessible and engaging addition to the camp program.
Guidance within the updated manual provides clear direction on equipment standards, range setup, supervision, and instruction that must be followed to add Atlatl to the camp program.
As part of this update, the multigun airsoft program has been removed from the Range and Target Activities Manual. This change reflects a careful evaluation of program consistency, operational complexity, and feedback from the field.
It is important to note that this decision does not diminish the value of airsoft experiences overall outside of Scouting. Rather, it removes a program that cannot be delivered through our current program standards. Councils are encouraged to focus on the many remaining range and target offerings that continue to provide exciting and meaningful experiences for Scouts.
Councils and camps are encouraged to review the updated Range and Target Activities Manual as you plan camping opportunities in 2026. As always, our goal is to support safe, engaging, and memorable experiences for every Scout. This updated manual reflects that commitment while offering new opportunities like Atlatl that help our programs remain relevant.
We look forward to seeing how councils and camps bring these updates to life in 2026 and beyond.
Properties
Maintaining a Scout camp property involves various challenges that can affect the bottom line of the camp and your local council. Here are three common myths about maintenance that can hurt your camp and council’s financial health:
Myth 1: Maintenance Is Only Necessary When Something Breaks
Reality: Waiting for things to break can lead to costly repairs and downtime. Preventive maintenance, such as regular inspections and servicing, can help identify and address issues before they become major problems. This approach can save your camp money in the long run by reducing the need for extensive repairs and ensuring that facilities are safe and functional. This is one of the reasons the NCAP standards include a pre and post camp inspection – so you can proactively prepare for camp.
Myth 2: Outsourcing Maintenance Is Always More Expensive
Reality: While outsourcing maintenance may seem more costly upfront, it can save money in the long term. Professional maintenance providers often have specialized knowledge and equipment that can lead to more efficient and effective repairs. Additionally, outsourcing allows your camp staff to focus on their core responsibilities, leading to increased productivity and potentially reducing overall costs. It is important to budget for additional maintenance support to supplement the knowledge and skillset of your on-site camp ranger. Your camp ranger(s) has many responsibilities and may need additional help to prepare camp to open.
Myth 3: Cutting Maintenance Costs Is a Good Way to Save Money
Reality: While cutting maintenance costs may seem like a quick way to save money, it can end up costing your camp more in the long run. Neglecting maintenance can lead to equipment failures, safety hazards, and a decrease in property value. Investing in regular maintenance can help your camp avoid costly repairs and ensure that facilities remain in good condition for years to come. Owning a camp (or multiple camps!) is not easy and funding maintenance is critical to managing these assets. Ensure that your maintenance budget reflects the needs of your specific camp(s). Start by estimating the annual costs for routine maintenance tasks such as groundskeeping, building repairs, and equipment servicing. Consider factors such as the age and condition of your facilities, as well as any upcoming maintenance projects. It’s also wise to budget for unexpected repairs or emergencies. Leverage the NCAP tools (such as the CFET and CCIP) to help you predict and plan for maintenance costs. Finally, utilizing the FIIX software can help you plan for your annual maintenance costs accurately. For details on FIIX, email andrea.watson@scouting.org.
In conclusion, maintaining a Scout camp property is essential for its long-term success. By dispelling these maintenance myths and investing in regular upkeep, your camp can save money, ensure safety, and provide a positive experience for campers and staff alike.
Camp Staff
One of the many things that distinguish Scouting from other youth organizations is the amount of training available to help our volunteers and professionals fill their roles. That is the good news. However, the challenge can often be finding the right training to support your team’s ongoing growth. In addition, training can be expensive, far away, scheduled inconveniently, or lack quality.
As much as you can help your people navigate those challenges and access the training that builds their skills, a minor investment in the right training can reap major benefits to your program’s quality and in your team’s loyalty. Your dedication to helping them get where they want to go gives your team a reason to stay. This is true for camp staff, district/council volunteers, and professionals.
Where can you find this training?
Inside Scouting:
- Monthly Outdoor Programs Webinars: Join us for camping topics and program updates. Also find past recorded presentations on many outdoor program topics.
- National Camping Schools: good for council outdoor committee leaders (think climbing, range and target, aquatics, conservation/ecology), up and coming camp staff leaders, and current camp staff leaders. Builds skills, creates depth, coverage, and succession plan for hard to fill roles. Gives council leadership “inside perspective” to camping operations.
- National Outdoor Conference (every other year): provides sessions on topics impacting outdoor activities in Scouting with top-notch national speakers. Introduces new programs and is a great networking opportunity with Scouting’s national committees and prospective vendors.
- For Camp Staff at least 18 years old: Climbing Level 1, Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (think new camp commissioners)
- For Camp Staff not yet 18 years old: NYLT, Angling Educator and Certified Angling Instructor.
Outside Organizations*:
- American Camping Association (ACA): Regional and National Conferences held annually bring together speakers on topics urgent to the camping industry. These are also solid networking and vendor vetting opportunities.
- American Red Cross: Lifeguard training, First Aid/CPR, Wilderness First Aid/First Responder, and Wilderness EMT
- Leave No Trace: (Under 18) Leave No Trace skills and LNT trainer, (18+) Leave No Trace Instructor (Level 1 and 2)
- Mental Health First Aid training: (18+) Basic preparation to support youth and adults having mental health issues
- National Rifle Association: (Under 18) Basic shooting courses, Apprentice Instructor. (18+) Assistant Instructor
*Note: Many Scout councils offer these trainings utilizing Scouting volunteers and partnerships with these outside organizations.
Other:
Outdoor retailers such as REI Co-op and Bass Pro Shop offer various courses from bike repair, to orienteering, wilderness survival, and more. Check websites for topics/dates.
Private training organizations offer outdoor skills courses helpful to summer camp staff and leaders. Examples include:
Do you have a “go-to” training experience that has helped your team? Let us know at OutdoorPrograms@scouting.org.
NCAP
As the countdown to camp season begins, camp directors shoulder the responsibility of ensuring their staff are well-prepared to deliver exceptional experiences for our Scouts who will attend. Developing and implementing a great training plan is the cornerstone of success, tailored to the unique demands of each camp type. Let’s take a moment to explore the essential components of staff training for long-term camps, and day camps, accompanied by practical checklists to streamline the preparation process.
For All Long-Term Camps and Day Camps: Before delving into camp-specific requirements, it’s vital to establish a foundation of universal training elements applicable to both of these camp types. Here’s a checklist of training that apply to all:
Youth Protection Training:
- All staff complete before or at camp before camp begins online.
- Renew every two years.
- ACTION ITEM: Collect copies of Youth Protection training for all staff. (Could be done in advance of camp!)
Understanding and Preventing Youth-on-Youth Abuse Training:
- Completed during staff training in-person.
- Renew annually.
- ACTION ITEM: Add to written staff training plan
- ACTION ITEM: Collect copies of training certificates for all staff or use a sign in roster on a training record.
Staff First-Aid Training:
- Ensure at least 50% of staff are certified.
- Maintain a ratio of 1:25 trained staff to campers.
- ACTION ITEM: Collect certifications from Staff. (Could be done in advance of camp!)
Hazardous Weather Training:
- All staff complete online.
- Renew every two years.
- ACTION ITEM: Collect copies of training certificates for all staff. (Could be done in advance of camp!)
In addition, for Day Camps: Day camps are a unique camp type, necessitating specific training adaptations. Here’s a checklist to tailor your training plan for day camp staff:
- Minimum of four to eight hours of training before camp.
- Follow agendas outlined in Day Camp Administration Guide or Cub Scout Day Camp Staff Training Guide.
- Implement Workplace Harassment Prevention Training specifically for paid staff (available online only).
- ACTION ITEM: Retain copies of Workplace Harassment Prevention Training certificates on-site and at the council office (if applicable).
For Long-Term Camps: Long-term camps demand a more comprehensive training approach and encompass extended durations and specialized skill sets. Here’s a checklist to elevate your staff training for long-term camps:
- Provide a minimum of 28 hours of staff training.
- Incorporate program-specific outlines.
- Allocate 10 extra hours of training for each additional type of long-term camp. (i.e. Cub Scout, Scouts BSA or Venturing)
- Supervise training with personnel trained at National Camping School.
- ACTION ITEM: Develop a staff training plan showing 28 hours of training (above and beyond physical set up of camp). The NCAP assessment team will need to see this plan and it can be submitted with your Declaration of Readiness.
Multiple Program offerings. Facilitating seamless integration between staff members transitioning across different camp types is essential for maintaining consistency and quality. Here’s a checklist to promote staff moving from one camp program type to another:
- Brief staff on program guidance and program delivery for each camp type.
- Develop program plans for each program activity in each program type using the age-appropriate guidelines.
- Address differences in program groups, including gender- and age-related issues.
While this list is not all the things you need to do to train your staff it will give you a good starting point in developing your staff training plan. Remember that your plan needs to be in writing and approved by the appropriate council committees.
As camp director, your commitment to staff training sets the stage for a memorable and enriching camp experience for all. By leveraging these checklists and tailoring your training plan to suit the specific needs of each camp type, you empower your staff to excel in their roles, ensuring camper safety, growth, and enjoyment throughout the season. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can embark on the upcoming camp season with confidence and enthusiasm.
Resources: For more information on staff training see NCAP standard SQ-402. Additional information and staff training guidance for long-term camp can also be found in the upcoming revised Camp Staff Training Guide which will be released at the end of April 2024.
Camping / Cub Scouting
Camping is one of the most effective and engaging tools for recruiting new Cub Scouts. It offers a hands-on, immersive experience that highlights the fun, adventure, and core values of Scouting which is something that’s hard to replicate in a church basement or meeting room. Whether it’s a day camp, pack campout, district family weekend, or something else, camp provides a dynamic gateway into the Scouting movement.
Here are key ways to turn camp into a powerful recruitment engine:
- Invite Non-Scouts
Encourage current Cub Scouts to bring friends to camp events. A “bring-a-buddy” approach is a fun and effective way to introduce new families to the program.
- Showcase the Program in Action
Use camp activities to demonstrate Scouting’s values. Let prospective Scouts and their families see the Scout Oath and Law in real-life situations.
- Engage Parents
Camps provide a welcoming environment for leaders to answer questions, share stories, and build trust with new families.
- Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Train staff and volunteers to be inclusive, enthusiastic, and friendly. A warm welcome can make all the difference in helping new families feel at home.
Scouting America’s camps and properties are among its greatest assets. These outdoor spaces offer immersive, high-energy environments that showcase the very best of the Cub Scouting experience. Here are 15 practical, proven, and creative ways councils and units can use these facilities to recruit new families:
- Host “Bring-a-Buddy” Day Camps or short-term camps
- Create Family Camp Weekends for Newcomers
- Use Camps as Open Houses
- Offer Seasonal Camps (Fall Fest, Winter Wonderland, Spring Bash)
- Partner with Local Organizations
- Create “Cub Scout Starter Camps”
- Incorporate Service Projects for Youth
- Host Parent Info Nights at Campfire Rings
- Use Long term Camps as a Sneak Peek
- Promote Camps as “Tech-Free Adventure Zones”
- Showcase Your Camp Year-Round on Social Media
- Offer Scout-for-a-Day Patches
- Include Registration Stations at Events
- Feature Scout Testimonials and Family Stories
- Invite Local Media to Cover Camp Events
Camp is more than just a fun outing, it’s a strategic opportunity to grow Scouting. By offering engaging, family-friendly outdoor experiences, camps can inspire new families to join and stay involved in Cub Scouting for years to come. With intentional planning and creative outreach, Scouting America’s camps can become powerful engines for recruitment and long-term engagement.
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