The Scouting Programs
Cub Scouts
Grades K–5
Scouts BSA
Ages 11-17
Venturing
Ages 14-20
Sea Scouts
Ages 14-20
Exploring
Ages 10-20
Want to learn more about the programs?
Find answers about meetings, activities, and more on our programs page!
Scout´s Motto
“Be prepared”
Our Mission
The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
Scout Law
A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.
Scout Oath
“On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.”
WELCOME TO SCOUTING
Scouting invites every youth to a safe, fun place to learn, explore,
and grow.
Scouting America is chartered by Congress to serve our nation’s youth by instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Scouting America aims to prepare young people for lives of impact and purpose. We welcome, at every level of our movement, youth and families who wish to live such a life of impact and purpose, guided by the Scout Oath and Law.
Scouting America is committed to creating a welcoming, safe environment where Scouts can freely express themselves, share their experiences, and become the best version of themselves by learning from and respecting each other.
Scouting America is non-partisan. The National organization, Local Scout communities (councils), and units will ensure that their decisions, public statements, relationships with third parties, activities, and events are consistent with our non-partisan nature and maintain the welcoming and supportive nature of Scouting.
The Value of Scouting
Discovery is at the heart of Scouting. Whether it’s a campout, derby car race, or hike on the trail, we believe every adventure helps us uncover a little more about ourselves. We build the foundations for humility and compassion—strengthening character through actions—to prepare youth for a lifetime of leadership.
Prepared. For Life.
Scouting teaches youth to confront any challenge with whole hearts and clear minds—to live their lives without regret, never back down, and do their very best!
Prepared. For Life.
Scouting teaches youth to confront any challenge with whole hearts and clear minds—to live their lives without regret, never back down, and do their very best!
In Scouting, we will not compromise the safety of our youth, volunteers, and employees. Safety is a value that must be taught and reinforced at every opportunity. We are all responsible and must hold each other accountable to provide a safe environment for all participants.
Become Your Best Self
Through fun yet challenging physical and mental activities, Scouting encourages personal growth by teaching youth how to set goals and achieve them with determination.
Fun for the Whole Family
Scouting is something the whole family can experience together. We designed our program so that anyone—brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers—can have fun and make an impact!
One of the greatest gifts for my family is that Scouting has provided our only son with a fantastic group of siblings who care for and support him!
Scouting is a way of life – a way of having time with family to share good times and memories!
In Scouting, you have a whole family of people to nurture and support children – and they work together to make sure everyone is successful!
Scouting is for everybody – it really is a family-based program.
I want kids, not just my own, but all kids, to feel for what another person might be missing and understand what another might be going through in their life. I want our kids to have fun but also care for one another!
Scouting makes the most of the time we have with our children!
One of the greatest gifts for my family is that Scouting has provided our only son with a fantastic group of siblings who care for and support him!
Scouting is a way of life – a way of having time with family to share good times and memories!
In Scouting, you have a whole family of people to nurture and support children – and they work together to make sure everyone is successful!
Scouting is for everybody – it really is a family-based program.
I want kids, not just my own, but all kids, to feel for what another person might be missing and understand what another might be going through in their life. I want our kids to have fun but also care for one another!
One of the greatest gifts for my family is that Scouting has provided our only son with a fantastic group of siblings who care for and support him!
One of the greatest gifts for my family is that Scouting has provided our only son with a fantastic group of siblings who care for and support him!
Scouting is a way of life – a way of having time with family to share good times and memories!
In Scouting, you have a whole family of people to nurture and support children – and they work together to make sure everyone is successful!
Scouting is for everybody – it really is a family-based program.
I want kids, not just my own, but all kids, to feel for what another person might be missing and understand what another might be going through in their life. I want our kids to have fun but also care for one another!
One of the greatest gifts for my family is that Scouting has provided our only son with a fantastic group of siblings who care for and support him!
Scouting Is the Difference
Our unique programs focused on character development, leadership and outdoor exploration provide a lifetime of benefits!
Compared to non-Scouts, Scouts are more likely to:
Embrace positive
social values
Develop kindness, helpfulness,
and cheerfulness
Have a greater sense
of hope for their future
NATIONAL HIGH ADVENTURE BASES
Experience a rush of adrenaline with your best friends and family!
Further your Scouting experience with outdoor activities and leadership training at a National High Adventure Base.
Go on a legendary backpacking trek in the rugged hills of Northern New Mexico.
From snorkeling and ocean kayaking or paddle boarding with friends and sailing, Sea Base is the ultimate maritime adventure!
Scenic canoe journeys and wilderness camping await you at the premier Scouting experience for water-based exploration in the Great North Woods of northern Minnesota and Canada!
Whether it's paddling inflatable kayaks down whitewater rapids, racing ATVs on backcountry tracks, or sharpening archery skills —there's a super-charged outdoor adventure waiting for everyone at the Summit Bechtel Reserve.
Scout Shop is Your One-Stop Shop for All Things Scouting!
As the exclusive retailer of Scouting America, 35% of every Scout Shop purchase supports the future of Scouting.
All Your Camping Gear in One Place
From tents and hammocks to sleeping bags, backpacks, mess kits and more, Scout Shop is your one-stop shop for camping gear!
Find the Perfect Gift for Any Scout
Take the stress out of holiday shopping and find the perfect gift for everyone on your list with our Holiday Gift Guide!
Get Ready to Race
From Pinewood Derby® Kits to fun Peel-N’-Stick Decals, Scout Shop is your one-stop shop for official Pinewood Derby® gear!
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