Why Scouts?

More than an activity — a foundation for life, leadership, and adventure.

Join the Adventure

2.3M
Youth Members
130M
Members Since 1910
100+
Years of Service
65%
Of Astronauts Were Scouts

Why Scouting Matters More Than Ever

A UK study commissioned by the National Trust found that children are spending 50% less time outside than their parents did. Time outside helps kids with:

  • Physical exercise
  • Building confidence
  • Promoting creativity
  • Increasing focus
  • Reducing stress
  • Improving mood

Our units meet outside for meetings, campouts, and additional outings that will get you exploring the outdoors.

What Scouts Gain

Leadership Development

Lead by example, make decisions, and take responsibility through patrol-based leadership and progressive advancement.

Outdoor Adventure

From camping and hiking to swimming and climbing, scouts develop practical outdoor skills while building confidence.

Lifelong Friendships

Through shared adventures, scouts build lasting friendships based on trust, respect, and common values.

Character Building

The Scout Oath and Law provide a moral compass for integrity, courage, and compassion.

Goal Achievement

Merit badges and rank advancement teach scouts to set goals and experience the satisfaction of achievement.

Service to Others

Community service projects instill a sense of civic duty and the importance of giving back.

Life Skills

From first aid to financial planning, scouts gain practical skills that prepare them for life.

Future Success

Studies show scouts are more likely to graduate college, earn higher incomes, and become engaged citizens.

Your Questions Answered

Can I go to summer camp?

From silly songs to belly flop contests, summer camp is a highlight of the year! For Cub Scouts, there are day camp and overnight camp options depending on age. Cubs enjoy archery, BB Gun shooting, swimming, games, sports, nature, and crafts. Scouts at the troop level are encouraged to attend a week long overnight camp. Scouts can choose activities including small boat sailing, rockwall climbing, or hunting for geocaches. There’s plenty of time to bond with the troop and make some new friends, too.

Do you take high adventure trips?

Our troop plans a rotation including Go Ape ropes course, white water rafting, and backpacking. Scouting America National High Adventure Bases allow you to take your scouting journey to new heights. One of our scouts recently sailed in the Caribbean from Sea Base with an all-girls crew.

Can I still play sports?

Yes! Many of our scouts play sports every season. The leadership skills you’ll practice at Scouts will help you on the field.

Can Scouting help me achieve my goals?

You’ll gain life skill experience with support from fellow scouts and adult leaders. Earn merit badges in everything from welding to nuclear science, earn service hours for National Honor Society and college apps, and boost your resume by earning Eagle Scout.

The Scout Oath, Law, & Outdoor Code

Scout Oath

On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Law

A Scout is:
Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.

Outdoor Code

As an American, I will do my best to:
Be clean in my outdoor manners.
Be careful with fire.
Be considerate in the outdoors.
Be conservation minded.

Ready to Start the Adventure?

Find the right program for your age and interests.

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