Gear-planning tips from an ultralight backpacking expert
Eagle Scout Ryan Jordan is a licensed wilderness skills instructor and guide. Get an idea of what Jordan packs in his backpack for a long-distance trek.
Teach your Scouts how to enhance their cooking skills using a Dutch oven
Traditionally, camping Dutch ovens are heavy cast-iron pots that make baking outdoors easy. You can also steam, fry, sauté or boil food in them.
How to help inexperienced Scouts with a fear of camping
Getting some kids out of the house — and out of their comfort zones — can present a challenge to even the savviest Scout leader.
The two questions that must be asked before you start a campfire
There are two questions that must be asked before you build a campfire: Do we really need a campfire? And, are we building it the right way?
The advantages of hammock camping
Here are 10 reasons to consider hammock camping, according to Derek Hansen, a lightweight backpacker, Scoutmaster and “hammock enthusiast.”
Confidently including Scouts with special needs at summer camp
“I like to refer to it like learning a dance with the Scouts and parents and leaders, and in this particular case, the camp staff, too. Everybody has to be in communication with each other.”
Retired BSA professional’s second act: A YouTube channel teaching outdoor skills
The father-son duo — both Eagle Scouts — launched their YouTube channel and website in 2019. They call it OSME.tv — or Outdoor Skills Made Easy.
On your period and headed on a camping trip? Here’s what you need to know
Check out these well-used, well-tested tips for making your period just part of the journey
5 ways to take better pictures outdoors (No. 5: Attend an incredible photo workshop at Philmont!)
“Scouting the New Mexico Landscape with Your Camera” features classroom sessions and exciting backcountry photo safaris at Philmont.
What is a micron and why should you care when filtering water?
On long backcountry treks, you’ll want a hydration plan other than to lug around multiple gallons of water.
How to be a zero-waste Scout troop
Here’s one for troops that are up for a true challenge: Consider taking steps toward becoming a zero-waste Scout troop.
How to pick your perfect tent
The biggest factor on choosing a tent is deciding how you’re going to use it.
Tips for first-time campers who are new to the Cub Scout family
The first time camping with a Cub Scout can be a little scary, especially if you are a little (or a lot) inexperienced.
Camping is not only fun, it’s good for your health
There are plenty of reasons to go camping. It’s fun; you can learn new skills; you can relax — but it also has health benefits.
Let’s mix it up — try these four delicious trail mix recipes
If there is one snack that is just made for the outdoors, it is trail mix.
How the Cooking merit badge can save your family time and heartache
When Avery Moore isn’t volunteering as Scoutmaster of Troop 11 in Rocky Mount, N.C., you can find him helping out
What’s your 11th Essential? Seasoned Scout leader has a suggestion to share
If you only have room in your backpack for 10 items, make it the Ten Essentials. But let’s say you have a little extra space. What’s your 11th Essential?
Tips for planning a successful, diverse Ten Commandments hike
With Scout Sunday, Sabbath and Jumuah slated for this weekend, it might be an ideal time to examine the 12th point of the Scout Law with your Scouts.
Scouts invent handy way to remember first aid steps
These Chicago Scouts came up with a mnemonic device to remember the eight steps of handling an emergency.
Outwit, outplay, outrecruit: Troop holds ‘Survivor’-themed event for Webelos
This troop devised a clever Survivor-themed competition that tested Scout skills while showing the Webelos what kind of high-energy fun awaits.
Here’s a simple way of setting up a dining fly in an open field
A dining fly is one of the first structures you should put up at camp. But what if you’re in an area away from trees, how do you secure one?
Here’s how to complete a square lashing in half the time
Making tight wraps and fraps when tying a square lashing can take some time, but not with this method.
It’s time to gear up to go camping with your family
Check out your local Scout Shop tomorrow through Oct. 12 for “Family Camping 101.” You can save 20% on camping gear when you spend $100 or more either online or in-store.
Here’s a tip to help your Scouts remember how to tie a clove hitch
Did you know a clove hitch is essentially two simple knots? When your Scout is tying lashings, all they need
Always tie a square knot correctly with this tip
Tying a square knot might be confusing for Scouts. “Right-over-left” or was it “left-over-right?” Here’s how to help them.
Remember to protect yourself from mosquitoes
The uptick in a rare disease is a reminder to protect you and your Scouts from mosquitoes, especially during dawn and dusk when the insects are most active.
Try this easy technique next time you need to whip a rope
Whipping a rope can be a little tricky. If your Scout is struggling with the traditional method, you can teach them another way, called “West Country whipping.”
Let’s be blunt about pocket knife safety
A sharp blade can be a useful tool when setting up camp, fishing or cooking. It can also be dangerous when used carelessly.
Keep illness from ruining camp this summer
Are you showing these symptoms? Then, it might be best to stay home from camp.