BALOO Training

September 18-19, 2026

Friday 5:00 pm Check-In

Saturday 4:00 pm Graduation and Check-Out

Where: Montgomery Farms, 668 Sugar Ave, Ontario, OR 97914

Cost: $25 per person

 

Course Description

BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) is a required training course for ?Scouting America leaders who plan to take their Cub Scout pack camping. It provides the essential skills and confidence to run safe, engaging overnight outdoor events. At least one BALOO-trained leader must be present on all pack overnighters. The BALOO curriculum is split into two distinct, mandatory parts designed to be accessible even to leaders with zero prior camping experience:

1. Online Prerequisite Component

  • Completed online through the Scouting America training portal.
  • Covers the fundamental classroom concepts, administrative paperwork, and basic preparation needed for a pack outing.

2A. In-Person Practical Component

  • An energetic, hands-on, one-and-a-half to two-day outdoor camping experience.
  • Usually runs from a Friday evening to Saturday or Sunday afternoon, often hosted at local council camps.

2B. Key Skills and Topics Covered

The course ensures leaders are prepared for anything by focusing on hands-on learning:

  • Outdoor Program Planning: Age-appropriate activities, hikes, ceremonies, and nature exploration.
  • Campsite Selection & Setup: Tent placement, site layout, and equipment basics.
  • Health, Safety, and First Aid: BSA risk management, emergency procedures, and weather awareness.
  • Outdoor Cooking: Hands-on food prep, sanitation, and stove/Dutch oven demonstrations.
  • Campfires & Skits: How to plan, organize, and perform engaging campfire programs.
  • Outdoor Ethics: Leave No Trace principles and environmental stewardship.

Note: You must have completed Safeguarding Youth Training before participating.