Ready to elevate the experience for the Scouts in your unit beyond the weekly meeting? Your adventure starts with the Council’s Outdoor Prepardness program.

By completing the Outdoor Prepardness program you will earn your Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) and Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) certifications.

BALOO and IOLS aren't just training courses, they are your all-access pass to unforgettable outdoor adventures. These hands-on programs are designed to build your skills and confidence, ensuring you can lead your unit safely in the outdoors.

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

For Cub Scout leaders ready to take their pack on an overnight camping trip, BALOO is an essential, hands-on training that includes an overnight campout.

What you’ll get out of it:

• Gain confidence: If you're a new leader or have limited outdoor experience, BALOO will equip you with the knowledge to make your pack's first campout a safe and comfortable experience.
• Create core memories: Learn how to plan and lead successful, age-appropriate overnight adventures that Cub Scouts and their families will remember for a lifetime.
• Master the essentials: Go beyond the basics to master campsite selection, safe cooking techniques, and campfire programs that will spark every Scout's imagination.
• Get connected: Collaborate and share ideas with other leaders, building a network that will support your journey long after the course is over.

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS)

For Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting leaders, IOLS is a critical training course that unlocks the secrets of delivering a top-tier outdoor program.

What you’ll get out of it:

• Unlock advancement: Gain the practical outdoor skills needed to teach Scouts everything they need for their First Class rank, including:
• Map and compass navigation
• Fire-building and cooking
• Using woods tools safely
• First aid
• Rope work, knots, and lashings
• Level up your teaching: Discover new and engaging ways to teach outdoor skills that will keep your Scouts excited and engaged.
• Connect and learn: Learn alongside other leaders in a dynamic, overnight camping environment, sharing best practices and forming lasting connections.

Lead your Scouts on an adventure they'll never forget. BALOO and IOLS are your foundation for delivering the promise of Scouting and creating a world of exploration for your unit.

Ready for the next step? After taking Outdoor Prepardness stay with us for one more day and take Outdoor Adventures. For more information and to sign up for Outdoor Adventures find the separate event on the Council Calendar.

** If you have special dietary restrictions, please reach out to us ahead of time to discuss cooking and meal options.

***All participants must take the BALOO Prerequisite Training online through my.scouting in order to get credit for both BALOO and IOLS, there is not a separate online prerequisite course for IOLS.

**** The courses require overnight camping, tents are required. Please see the attachment section for items you will need. 

If there are any questions, please let us know!