With the return of the 2025 camping season, Cub Scout leaders and parents are eager to get their Scouts back into the outdoors. A well-planned campout at Oso Lake or any other Scouting property can be a rewarding experience, but ensuring safety should always be the top priority. The Guide to Safe Scouting outlines essential policies to help leaders create a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.
Following the Guide to Safe Scouting
The BSA Guide to Safe Scouting serves as the primary resource for leaders organizing any Scouting activity. The Camping section of the guide (available here) details critical guidelines for unit campouts, ensuring they align with BSA’s safety protocols.
Key Safety Considerations for a Pack Campout
Cub Scouts have different outdoor experience levels compared to older Scouts, and activities must be designed accordingly. The Guide to Safe Scouting provides clear guidelines on what is appropriate for Cub Scouts, such as:
- Overnight camping: Only Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts may camp as a den. Tigers, Wolves, and Bears must camp as part of a pack with parental supervision.
- Aquatic activities: Any water-based activities require Safe Swim Defense or Safety Afloat training for supervising adults.
All Cub Scout camping trips must follow two-deep leadership requirements, meaning at least two registered adult leaders (one of whom must be 21 or older) are required at all times. One leader must be Youth Protection Training (YPT) certified.
Additionally, at least one adult on the campout must be BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) trained to ensure leaders understand camping safety procedures, meal planning, and age-appropriate outdoor skills.
Safe Campsites and Fire Safety
Choosing a safe campsite is essential. The Guide to Safe Scouting outlines considerations for proper campsite setup, including:
- Checking for hazards such as dead trees, steep slopes, or wildlife concerns.
- Maintaining a designated fire area with clear boundaries.
- Ensuring fire safety with water buckets or extinguishers nearby.
- Following Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact.
First Aid and Emergency Preparedness
A well-stocked first aid kit should be on hand, and all leaders should be familiar with basic first aid procedures. Each group should have a clear emergency action plan, including:
- Communication procedures in case of injury or severe weather.
- The location of the nearest medical facility.
- A roster with emergency contact information for all participants.
Food Safety and Hydration
Leaders must ensure that all food is stored and prepared safely. The Guide to Safe Scouting recommends:
- Keeping raw and cooked foods separate to prevent cross-contamination.
- Storing food securely to prevent wildlife encounters.
- Ensuring Scouts stay properly hydrated, especially in warm weather.
Final Steps Before the Campout
Before heading out, leaders should review the BSA’s SAFE Checklist—Supervision, Assessment, Fitness & Skill, and Equipment & Environment. This framework helps ensure every aspect of the campout has been planned with safety in mind.
For full details on BSA’s camping guidelines, visit the Guide to Safe Scouting.
By following these safety protocols, leaders can create a fun and secure outdoor experience where Cub Scouts can explore, learn new skills, and develop a lifelong love for the outdoors.
