07/17/2026
Help Cub Scouts feel confident before their first campout!
For many Cub Scouts, their first night outdoors is an exciting adventure. For others, sleeping in a tent, hearing unfamiliar sounds, or being away from home can feel a little overwhelming. A little preparation can turn those worries into confidence.
Here are a few ways families and leaders can help:
⛺ Practice camping skills before the big adventure. Set up a tent in the backyard or living room, practice using sleeping bags, and learn how gear works. These small steps help Scouts feel prepared and comfortable.
🌙 Get familiar with the outdoors. A backyard campout is a great way to experience the sounds of nature, from rustling leaves to nighttime wildlife, while still feeling safe and supported.
☀️ Build healthy outdoor habits. Encourage Scouts to practice carrying a water bottle, using sunscreen, and fueling up with healthy snacks. Outdoor adventures take energy!
🥾 Start small and build up. A backyard campout can lead to a pack overnighter, council family camp, and eventually even resident camp and future Scouting adventures.
A first camping experience can become the beginning of a lifetime of outdoor memories. First impressions matter, and a Scout outdoor program can make a big difference when it comes to retention. With encouragement, practice, and support, Cub Scouts can discover that the outdoors is a place where they belong.
Learn more 👇
https://onscouting.org/2026/07/14/how-to-prepare-cubs-for-their-first-campout/
