BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) is a required training course for any adult leader who plans to lead Cub Scouts on overnight outdoor activities. Offered by the Lincoln Heritage Council, BALOO equips leaders with the skills and confidence to deliver safe, fun, and meaningful outdoor experiences for Cub Scouts. Whether you’re organizing a pack campout or a Webelos Den overnight, BALOO ensures that leaders are prepared to uphold Scouting America’s safety standards and outdoor program goals.
What BALOO Covers
BALOO training consists of two parts:
Online Training
- Available anytime at https://my.scouting.org
- Covers foundational topics such as outdoor planning, safety, and hazard awareness
- Must be completed before attending the in-person portion
In-Person, Hands-On Training
- Includes overnight camping and hands-on instruction in cooking, first aid, campfires, hiking, aquatics, knife safety, knots, and more
- Offered seasonally to align with recruiting and camping schedules
Upcoming BALOO Training Opportunities – Fall 2025
The Lincoln Heritage Council offers BALOO training at three locations this fall:
September 12–13, 2025
📍 Tunnel Mill Scout Reservation
📝 Register HereOctober 10–11, 2025
📍 Camp Crooked Creek – Brotherhood Lodge
📝 Register HereOctober 24–26, 2025
📍 Camp Rotary, Glasgow, KY
📝 Event Details & Registration
📅 Starts: October 24 @ 6:00 PM
📅 Ends: October 26 @ 10:00 AM
💰 Cost: $30
📧 Organizer: Josh Hutcheson – Josh.Hutcheson@scouting.org
📞 Phone: (502) 400-5559
Why BALOO Matters
- Safety First: BALOO ensures that at least one trained adult is present at every Cub Scout overnight event, reducing risks and promoting responsible leadership.
- Confidence Building: Leaders gain practical skills and confidence to lead outdoor activities effectively.
- Program Quality: Well-trained leaders deliver better experiences, which helps retain Scouts and engage families.
- Compliance: BALOO is a requirement for pack camping authorization under Scouting America guidelines.
