Scouting’s flagship event is one-of-a-kind. It’s a gathering of approximately 30,000 Scouts, leaders, and staff that showcases everything that is great about the BSA and its members. Held every four years, the Jamboree is an amazing opportunity for participants, volunteers, and visitors to experience the best of Scouting, all in one place. Features include; one of the longest zip line courses in North America, a world-class skate park, ATV offerings, tree-top canopy tours, rock climbing, patch trading, stadium shows, and much more!

HISTORY

The first Boy Scouts of America National Scout Jamboree was scheduled to be held in Washington, D.C., in 1935 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Scouting in America. Unfortunately, the jamboree was canceled because of a polio outbreak in Washington. When the first National Scout Jamboree was finally held in 1937, Dan Beard lit the opening campfire using flint and steel. Scouts from all 48 states brought the wood that was used in the campfire. There were 27,232 Scouts camped on the National Mall under the Washington Monument. Since that time, an additional 19 national jamborees have been held, the last in 2023.

BE A TRAILBLAZER

The Lake Erie Council will be sending participants to attend the 2026 National Scout Jamboree. Our LEC National Scout Jamboree Contingent will consist of troops made up of Scouts from across the Council. For the 2026 Jamboree, out goal is to fill a 40-person male unit and a 20-person female unit. This means if your troop is interested in bringing part or all of your troop with adult leaders, you will be accommodated. 

FACE THE CHALLENGE

Besides the National Scout Jamboree experience itself, there are many costs that are incurred in preparation for the event. These costs include (but may not be limited to):

• Ground Transportation to and from the Jamboree
• Tent/Room and Board
• Jamboree training, meetings, and other events
• Required Training
• Jamboree gear, including all troop/crew specific gear
• Jamboree event fee
• Dedicated Scouting professional and support staff to facilitate and assist in a successful Jamboree experience

YOUTH PARTICIPANTS

The National Scout Jamboree is open to all who are qualified on a first-come, first-served basis.  Qualifications to attend the National Scout Jamboree include:

Registered member of a Scout troop, who is at least 12 years old (but who has not yet reached their 21st birthday by 7/22/2026) by July 22, 2026. --OR--

• Registered member of a Venturing Crew.
• Must live and abide by the Scout Oath and Law.
• Must abide by the Jamboree Code of Conduct.

Each Scout will be a member of a patrol within their patrol. Every contingent member will be required to participate in and have the following:

• Mandatory troop or crew meetings
• A completed National Jamboree Medical form signed by a licensed physician
• Attend the all-contingent gathering
• Attend an overnight training encampment.
• Have all fees paid no later than March 6, 2026.

ADULT LEADERSHIP

For the 2026 Jamboree, there will be four adult leaders per unit. Each will serve in a unit leadership role as Scoutmaster or one of three Assistant Scoutmasters. 

Contingent Leadership, such as the Scoutmaster for each contingent troop, and the contingent leader will be selected from the pool of adult leaders who have been approved to attend the National Jamboree.