BALOO and IOLS

BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) and IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills) registration is available at both the Council and District levels, providing flexibility and convenient opportunities for Scouting America leaders. These training courses give leaders the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to provide safe, engaging, and successful outdoor experiences for Scouts. Check with your local District or Council for upcoming dates and registration opportunities.

IOLS

This training is for Scouts BSA and Venture Leaders. Working as patrols, this hands-on course provides adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors. Upon completion, leaders should feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank.

Along with Scoutmaster Specifics, this course is required of all direct contact leaders registered in Scout Troops in order to be considered “trained”.

Upcoming Training Opportunities: 

Northern Ridge District IOLS Training (Tentaroo Registration)
When: October 16-17, 2026
Where: Birmingham United Methodist, 15770 Birmingham Hwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004
Cost: $40 per person
Contact: Craig Ficik - rosenberg.tom@gmail.com

https://www.nrtraining.org/scouts-bsa/iols

BALOO

Cub Scout leaders who are interested in adding a camping component to their Pack activities are required to have at least one BALOO trained adult on every Cub Scout den or pack overnight outdoor event – including Pack Camping and Webelos Den overnighters. Check out the times below for your next training opportunity: 

Upcoming Training Opportunities: 

Phoenix District BALOO Training (Tentaroo Registration)
When: September 18-20, 2026
Where: Bert Adams Scout Camp, 218 Scout Rd, Covington, GA 30016
Cost: $35 per person
Contact: Tom Rosenberg - rosenberg.tom@gmail.com

Indian Springs District BALOO Training (Blackpug Registration)
When: October 24-25, 2026
Where:  Bethany Christian Church, 2868 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy, Carrollton, GA  30116
Cost: $35 per person
Contact: Jon Lansing 770-713-0365, scoutmaster4t39@gmail.com