Scouts BSA is the traditional Scouting experience for boys and girls ages 11 through 17. Service, community engagement and leadership development become increasingly important parts of the program as youth lead their own activities and work their way toward earning Scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout.
Leadership: Scouting builds leaders. Former Scouts serve on the boards of global corporations, walk the halls of the White House, and have been known to go hiking on the moon occasionally. Life lessons learned in Scouting will help all of its members make good decisions throughout life.
Service: The Scout slogan is Do a Good Turn Daily. That means doing something to help others each day without expecting anything in return. It implies that Scouts do their part in caring for the community and the environment.
Personal Growth: As Scouts plan activities and progress toward goals, they experience personal growth. Young men and women grow by participating in community service projects and by doing a Good Turn daily.
Love the wilderness? Scouts BSA offers youth countless adventures in the great outdoors! Ranging from troop campouts to council-wide Camporees, Scouts have countless opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge and experience while having fun!
Scouts BSA learn about sports, crafts, science, trades, business, and even future careers as you earn merit badges. The more merit badges you earn, the further you advance on your way to earning the Eagle Scout Award!
Several troops may be invited to attend other special events such as a large community service project or Scout Show. These events are coordinated by a local council or district.
Through Scouting’s advancement program, Scouts set goals, build new skills, and progress at their own pace. Each achievement is recognized along the way, helping Scouts gain confidence, develop self-reliance, and grow into capable leaders who are prepared to help others.
Each fall, Scouts take part in popcorn season, where they learn communication skills, set goals, and raise funds to support their adventures. It’s a fun, confidence-building experience that helps Scouts take pride in their efforts while giving back to their troop.
The Eagle Scout Award is the highest achievement in Scouts BSA and represents a Scout’s dedication, leadership, and service. To earn this prestigious rank, Scouts complete a series of advancements, earn merit badges, and lead a meaningful service project that benefits their community.
During youth-led troop meetings, Scouts engage in Scout skill challenges, team building opportunities, patrol games, and troop games. You can read more about those activities here.
At Scouts BSA, we aim to build an inclusive, youth-led community where youth of all backgrounds feel welcome and in control of their Scouting experience. If a parent or guardian wishes to observe a troop meeting or lend a helping hand with youth-led activities, they should consult with the Scoutmaster in advance.
The annual fee is $85. Additional fees might be charged by local councils and units.
*Price subject to change / **Effective May 1, 2024
Programs are designed to follow a strict set of rules and policies that can be found in the Guide to Safe Scouting. All adult leaders and council members are also required to save Safeguarding Youth Training.
Program resources are in place by both the Cub Scouts pack and the Scouts BSA troop. Learn more about how we ensure a smooth transition.
Yes! Scouting America aims to empower Scouts with disabilities to fully participate in the Scouting program, fostering personal growth, leadership development, and a sense of belonging through accessible activities and adapted challenges, ensuring that every individual can achieve their full potential regardless of ability.
Absolutely! Youth can join Scouts BSA with no prior Scouting experience (i.e., Cub Scouts) as long as they meet the age requirements.
Youth can join Scouts BSA if they are at least 10 years old, currently in the fifth grade and register on or after March 1st; OR have earned the Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10 years old, OR are age 11 but have not reached age 18.
