Brazos Valley – BALOO/IOLS Training

Date: March 21st – 22nd, 2026

Location: Camp Holland, Weatherford, Texas

BALOO – Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation

BALOO is required for Cub Scout overnight (1.5 day) camping trips to ensure a safe and well-planned experience. It is required for any den or pack outdoor event, including camping overnighters and Webelos den overnighters. This training equips leaders with the skills to organize, plan, and execute safe and fun camping activities, rooted in Cub Scouting principles.

BALOO training comprises two components—an online component and a practical, hands-on component. The online component must be completed before the practical outdoor and classroom component. The online training contains introductory and basic information to be built upon during the practical training. For the online component, go to my.scouting.org

Why is BALOO training important?

Safety: BALOO training covers essential safety aspects of camping with Cub Scouts, including health and safety procedures, equipment preparation, and emergency response.

Fun and Engaging Activities: The training provides leaders with ideas for age-appropriate outdoor activities, games, and ceremonies that enhance the camping experience.

Effective Planning: BALOO helps leaders plan and organize overnight events, including site selection, meal planning, and resource management.
Insurance Requirements: Scouting America requires BALOO training for insurance purposes. In the event of an incident at a campout, having a trained leader helps fulfill insurance requirements and protects adults from personal liability.

In essence, BALOO training is not just a requirement, but a valuable tool for creating a positive and safe outdoor experience for Cub Scouts. 

IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills)

IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills) is a required training for Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters in Scouts BSA to ensure they have the practical skills and knowledge to lead outdoor activities and help Scouts advance. It focuses on hands-on training in fundamental outdoor skills, directly related to the Scouts BSA Handbook and rank advancement requirements.

Hands-on participation is the best learning tool, and this course models the techniques used by effective Scoutmasters, advisors, and other leaders in the Scouting program. Attendees will see and experience different aspects of how Scouting works while playing the role of Scouts in a troop.

Participants should leave the training experience with a full understanding of how the patrol method operates, a feeling of comfort in working with and instructing their Scouts, and an increased level of confidence taking Scouts outdoors safely. With that comes great satisfaction.

Here's why IOLS is crucial:

Equipping Leaders: IOLS provides adult leaders with the necessary skills to confidently guide Scouts in outdoor settings, covering topics like camp setup, cooking, tool use, first aid, and more.

Following Advancement: The skills taught in IOLS align with the skills required for Scouts to advance through the ranks, particularly the First Class rank.

Ensuring Safety: IOLS training helps leaders understand and implement safe practices for various outdoor activities, contributing to a safer Scouting experience.

Boosting Confidence: By providing practical experience and knowledge, IOLS helps leaders feel more comfortable and confident in their ability to lead outdoor adventures.

Meeting BSA Standards: IOLS is a core component of the Scouting America leader training program, and completing it, along with position-specific training, is necessary for leaders to be considered "Trained".

In essence, IOLS is not just about learning outdoor skills, but also about learning how to teach and supervise those skills within the context of the Scouting program.