BALOO Training
(Explained for New Cub Scout Leaders)

Cartoon lion in camping vest holding a map and clipboard, representing guidance for BALOO training.
Cartoon lion in camping vest holding a map and clipboard, representing guidance for BALOO training.

If you’re a newer Cub Scout leader — or a parent who volunteered and is still figuring things out — BALOO training can sound intimidating at first. You are not alone.

The good news is that BALOO is designed for regular parents and leaders, not expert campers. Its goal is to help packs run safe, simple, and fun overnight activities — and to help leaders feel confident doing so.

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to help, but I’m not sure I know enough,” this page is for you.

Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.

What Is BALOO Training?

BALOO stands for Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation.

It is the primary training for Cub Scout leaders who want to help lead pack camping or Webelos den overnight activities. In most councils, a BALOO-trained leader is required to be present for these overnights.

Think of BALOO as:

  • A guide to Cub-Scout-appropriate camping

  • A safety and planning overview

  • A confidence booster for leaders who didn’t grow up in Scouting

Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.

Why Take BALOO?

BALOO helps take the guesswork out of camping and replaces it with shared understanding.

It helps leaders:

  • Understand what Cub Scouts can and cannot do on campouts

  • Feel more comfortable helping with outdoor activities

  • Reduce stress by knowing the expectations ahead of time

  • Give the pack more flexibility when planning overnighters

You don’t need to be “the camping expert.” BALOO helps everyone feel more confident together.

Cartoon wolf talking with other animals around a campfire, showing teamwork among Cub Scout leaders.
Cartoon wolf talking with other animals around a campfire, showing teamwork among Cub Scout leaders.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.

What Should I Expect at BALOO?

BALOO training is usually split into two parts:

  1. An online training completed ahead of time

  2. An in-person, hands-on session, often including an overnight stay

The in-person portion is practical and focused on Cub Scouts. Topics often include:

  • Campsite setup and layout

  • Simple outdoor cooking ideas

  • Safety, weather awareness, and planning

  • Campfire programs and age-appropriate activities

Most courses are relaxed and supportive. Many attendees are learning right alongside you.

Cartoon bear calmly cooking at a picnic table, showing practical outdoor skills taught at BALOO.
Cartoon bear calmly cooking at a picnic table, showing practical outdoor skills taught at BALOO.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.

What Should I Bring?

Exact requirements vary by course, but most BALOO weekends recommend bringing basic camping items.

Common essentials:

  • Proof of completed online BALOO training

  • Tent (or coordinate with another leader)

  • Sleeping bag and sleeping pad

  • Weather-appropriate clothing and rain jacket

  • Flashlight or headlamp

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Personal toiletries and medications

Nice to have:

  • Camp chair

  • Notebook and pen

  • Extra socks

If you don’t have camping gear, ask — many packs can help. BALOO is not a test of equipment ownership.

Cartoon tiger kneeling with a clipboard beside an open backpack, checking gear for BALOO training.
Cartoon tiger kneeling with a clipboard beside an open backpack, checking gear for BALOO training.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.

Still Have Questions?

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about BALOO — especially if you didn’t grow up in Scouting.

You don’t need to know everything before you sign up. BALOO is about learning together, asking questions, and feeling more comfortable helping our kids have safe, memorable outdoor experiences.

If you’re unsure which training works best for our pack, talk with a pack leader or training coordinator. Many of us started in the same place.

Monkey and lemur sitting on a log and talking, representing friendly reassurance for new leaders.
Monkey and lemur sitting on a log and talking, representing friendly reassurance for new leaders.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.
Decorative vine divider separating sections of the page.

Upcoming & Past BALOO Trainings

BALOO trainings are offered throughout the year by local councils and districts. Dates and locations change, so this section can be updated as new opportunities become available.

Below are examples of BALOO trainings offered in or near Maryland.

Cartoon animals celebrating together behind a sign that reads “Pack 628, we’re great!”
Cartoon animals celebrating together behind a sign that reads “Pack 628, we’re great!”

Upcoming:

  • Prince William District Baloo Training March 2025 - Camp Snyder, Virginia
    March 14-15, 2026
    Info and Registration can be found here

  • Carroll District BALOO — Walkersville Watershed
    April 17–18, 2026 (Baltimore Area Council)
    Info and Registration can be found here

  • National Pike District BALOO (Spring) — Mt. Airy area
    May 8–9, 2026 (Baltimore Area Council)

Where to find additional trainings:


These sites are updated regularly and may list additional BALOO opportunities.

Past trainings:

(Links to past events can still be helpful when watching for future sessions.)

If you’re unsure which training is the best fit for our pack, talk with a pack leader or training coordinator. We’re happy to help.

Cub Scouts
Pack 628

New Market, MD

(c) Cub Scout Pack 628, 2015

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