BALOO & IOLS Leader Training Weekend

Join us for a weekend of hands-on outdoor leadership training designed to equip Scout leaders with the skills and confidence needed to deliver safe, engaging, and exciting outdoor programs. Participants will register through this common registration page and select either the Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) or Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) training during registration.

This is an overnight, outdoor training experience where participants will be tent camping and actively engaged in practical, hands-on learning. Participants should provide their own camping gear, tent, mess kit, and personal items. A packing list and additional course information are attached in the registration. Meals are included.

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS)

The Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills course provides Scouts BSA leaders with the practical outdoor skills needed to lead a successful troop program. Building upon Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training, IOLS gives adult leaders hands-on experience with the skills Scouts learn as they progress through the Scouts BSA program.

Participants will experience the patrol method firsthand while learning camping, cooking, knots and lashings, map and compass, fire building, outdoor ethics, and other essential Scouting skills. Training is conducted in a patrol setting, allowing participants to work together, share leadership responsibilities, and experience the methods that make troop programs successful. Completion of IOLS is required for Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters to be considered fully trained in their position.

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

BALOO is the required outdoor training for Cub Scout packs planning pack overnighters. This course introduces Cub Scout leaders to the skills, planning, and resources necessary to conduct safe and successful outdoor activities.

**BALOO has an online component that must be completed before the in-person course. Please review the BALOO guide for information on how to access the online module. **

Participants will learn the essentials of Cub Scout camping, including campsite selection, program planning, meal preparation, health and safety standards, outdoor cooking, equipment selection, and age-appropriate outdoor activities. The course combines classroom discussion with practical outdoor experiences and provides leaders with the confidence to organize and lead memorable camping experiences for Cub Scouts and their families.