Outdoor Adventurer Den Meeting Plan

Getting ready for a campout is an exciting part of Scouting. For Arrow of Light Scouts, it’s also an important step in learning how to be confident and prepared in the outdoors. This den meeting plan focuses on helping Scouts get ready for their big adventure. It covers key skills like packing gear, planning for safety, and reading a map. These are all things Scouts will need for a successful and fun campout.

The goal of this Outdoor Adventurer den meeting is to build skills and confidence. Scouts will work together to learn, practice, and prepare for their trip. They’ll talk about what to bring, how to stay safe, and what to expect at the campsite. By the end of the den meeting, they’ll have a better idea of how to “Be Prepared” for the outdoors, just like the Scout motto says.

This Outdoor Adventurer den meeting is also about having fun and working as a team. It includes hands-on activities, opportunities for Scouts to share ideas, and even a tasty snack. The activities are designed to keep Scouts engaged while teaching them valuable lessons. They’ll leave the den meeting excited and ready to take on their campout with new knowledge and skills.

Whether you’re a new or experienced den leader, this plan makes it easy to lead your Scouts through the first part of the Outdoor Adventurer adventure. It’s a great way to help them prepare for their next big challenge.

Total Duration: 90 minutes

• Gathering Activity: Outdoor Essentials Relay
  • Time: 10 minutes
  • Purpose: Engage Scouts as they arrive and introduce outdoor gear essentials.
• Opening
  • Time: 5 minutes
  • Activities: Recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Briefly discuss the den meeting’s purpose and relate it to the Scout Law.
• Activity 1: Scout Basic Essentials Discussion
  • Time: 15 minutes
  • Activities: Review and discuss the Scout Basic Essentials, focusing on their importance during a campout.
• Activity 2: Packing for Campout
  • Time: 20 minutes
  • Activities: Demonstrate how to pack a backpack efficiently, discuss camping gear, and create personal packing lists. Provide worksheets for at-home use.
• Activity 3: BSA SAFE Checklist Review
  • Time: 15 minutes
  • Activities: Review the BSA SAFE Checklist, discuss its application for the campout, and engage Scouts in a safety conversation.
• Activity 4: Map Reading Exercise
  • Time: 15 minutes
  • Activities: Teach basic map-reading skills and locate the campsite on a map. Discuss navigation and trip planning.
• Snack Break: Trail Mix Creation
  • Time: 10 minutes
  • Activities: Scouts create their own trail mix while discussing camping-friendly snacks.
• Closing
  • Time: 10 minutes
  • Activities: Reflect on the meeting’s activities and how they tie into the Scout Law. Encourage Scouts to share key takeaways. End with a Scoutmaster’s Minute.

Materials for the Den Meeting:

• Items for the Scout Basic Essentials (e.g., pocketknife, rain gear, trail food, flashlight, extra clothing, first aid kit, sun protection, map and compass, matches/fire starters, water bottle)
• Backpack for packing demonstration
• Copies of the SAFE Checklist for each Scout
• Map of the campsite area
• Ingredients for trail mix (e.g., pretzels, dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, granola, seeds)
• Small bags or cups for trail mix
• Worksheets for packing lists
• Pens or pencils
• Table for the Outdoor Essentials Relay
• Printable or real images of gear (if physical items are not available)
• Hand sanitizer or wipes for snack preparation
• Trash bag for cleanup

Things the Den Leader Should Do Beforehand:

• Review the requirements for the Arrow of Light Outdoor Adventurer adventure.
• Gather all materials listed above.
• Prepare the Outdoor Essentials Relay items and set up the station.
• Print enough worksheets and BSA SAFE Checklists for each Scout.
• Ensure all Scouts’ dietary restrictions or allergies are noted and accommodated for the trail mix ingredients.
• Familiarize yourself with the campsite map and mark the location of the campsite.
• Review the Scoutmaster’s Minute to deliver it confidently.
• Confirm the meeting location and ensure it has enough space for the planned activities.

Things to Ask Parents to Provide or Help With:

• Donate or bring specific trail mix ingredients (coordinate to avoid duplicates).
• Provide some of the Scout Basic Essentials items if the den leader doesn’t have all of them.
• Volunteer to assist with setting up or supervising activities, especially the relay or snack station.
• Ensure their Scouts come with enthusiasm and a readiness to learn. If needed, remind them to send a backpack or any personal camping items for hands-on demonstrations.

Being well-prepared ensures the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting runs smoothly and helps Scouts stay engaged and excited!

When Scouts arrive, I like to start with something fun that gets them thinking about the outdoors. For this meeting, we’ll play the Outdoor Essentials Relay. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it gets everyone talking about the gear they’ll need for camping. This activity takes about 10 minutes and helps set the tone for the meeting. It also helps Scouts review the Scout Basic Essentials in a fun way.

Instructions for the Outdoor Essentials Relay:

1. Set up a table with items representing the Scout Basic Essentials. Include things like a flashlight, first aid kit, water bottle, sun protection, and a map. You can use real items or pictures.
2. Divide Scouts into two or three teams. If you have a smaller group, you can play individually instead of in teams.
3. Explain the rules. Each Scout will take turns running to the table, picking an item, and bringing it back to their team. When they get back, they should name the item and explain why it’s important for camping.
4. Start the relay. Cheer them on as they take turns running and picking items. If someone is unsure about an item, encourage their teammates to help them out.
5. Wrap it up. Once all items are collected, gather everyone around the table. Go over each item as a group and talk about how it helps Scouts be prepared for the outdoors.

This activity is a great way to start the meeting. It’s active, fun, and helps Scouts think about the gear they’ll need. By the end, everyone will have a better idea of what to pack for a campout and why. Plus, it sets the stage for the rest of the meeting’s activities.

After the relay, I like to bring the group together for an opening. This takes about 5 minutes and helps Scouts focus on the meeting. We recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law to remind everyone of what Scouting is all about. Then, I talk briefly about why we’re here and how it ties into the Scout Law.

I explain that being prepared for camping is part of being Trustworthy (we can depend on each other), Helpful (we’re ready to assist), and Thrifty (we pack only what we need). This helps connect the meeting to the values we’re teaching. It’s a simple way to set the tone and make sure everyone is ready to learn.

What’s in Your Pack

Learning about the Scout Basic Essentials is one of the most important parts of being prepared for the outdoors. During this activity, we’ll take about 15 minutes to talk about these essential items. We’ll go over what they are, why they’re important, and how they help us stay safe and ready during a campout. This activity gives Scouts a chance to see and handle the items they’ll need for their next outdoor adventure.

1. Gather the group in a circle. Make sure everyone can see the items you’ve brought.
2. Introduce the Scout Basic Essentials. Hold up each item one by one. Say its name and explain what it’s used for. For example, “This is a flashlight. It helps us see in the dark so we don’t trip or get lost.”
3. Pass the items around. Let Scouts handle each item so they can see it up close. Encourage them to ask questions.
4. Talk about real-life situations. Ask questions like, “Why do you think we need a first aid kit?” or “How would a map and compass help us on a hike?”
5. Encourage participation. If Scouts have been camping before, ask them to share a story about when they used one of these items. If they’re new, talk about how these items will help them on their upcoming campout.

By the end of this activity, Scouts will understand what the Scout Basic Essentials are and why they matter. They’ll feel more confident about what to pack and how to use these items during a campout. It’s a simple way to build excitement and help them feel ready for the outdoors. Plus, it’s a great way to answer any questions they might have!

Pack It Like a Pro!

Packing for a campout is a skill every Scout needs to learn. During this 20-minute activity, we’ll talk about what gear to bring and how to pack it. I’ll show the Scouts how to pack a backpack in a way that keeps things organized and easy to carry. Then, we’ll work on personal packing lists so they know exactly what they need for their upcoming campout. This will help them feel confident and prepared.

1. Start with a demonstration. Use a backpack and some camping gear to show how to pack efficiently. Talk about placing heavy items close to the back for balance and keeping frequently used items near the top or in side pockets.
2. Discuss essential gear. Go through a list of items Scouts should bring, such as a sleeping bag, extra clothing, a first aid kit, and the Scout Basic Essentials. Explain why each item is important for camping.
3. Show what not to pack. Hold up items that aren’t necessary, like toys or bulky extras. Explain how overpacking can make a backpack too heavy and hard to carry.
4. Hand out worksheets. Give each Scout a worksheet with a packing list template. Encourage them to fill it out with the gear they’ll need for the campout. If they’re not sure about something, they can ask for help or take the worksheet home to finish.
5. Answer questions. Make time for Scouts to ask about specific items or packing tips. Remind them to check with their parents to make sure they have everything they need.

See a printable personal gear list here.

This activity teaches Scouts how to pack smartly for a campout. They’ll learn what to bring, how to pack their gear, and how to avoid overpacking. By the end, they’ll have a packing list they can use to get ready at home. This helps build independence and gets them excited for the campout ahead!

Safety First, Adventure Second

Safety is one of the most important things to talk about before a campout. For this activity, we’ll spend 15 minutes going over the BSA SAFE Checklist. This checklist helps us think about how to stay safe while having fun outdoors. We’ll talk about each part of the checklist and how it applies to our campout. Scouts will also have a chance to share their own ideas about safety.

1. Introduce the checklist. Show the Scouts a copy of the BSA SAFE Checklist. Explain that it is a guide to help everyone stay safe during activities like camping.
2. Go over each part of the checklist.
   • S: Supervision – Talk about how adults will supervise and why it’s important to listen to leaders.
   • A: Assessment – Discuss checking the campsite for hazards and making sure everything is safe.
   • F: Fitness and Skills – Ask Scouts why being prepared physically and having the right skills matters for camping.
   • E: Equipment and Environment – Explain how using the right gear and understanding the weather can keep us safe.
3. Use real-life examples. Give examples of how each part of the checklist will be used during the campout. For example, “We’ll use the Assessment step to make sure our tents are set up in a safe spot.”
4. Ask for Scout input. Encourage Scouts to think about other safety tips. Ask questions like, “What should we do if someone gets hurt?” or “Why is it important to pack the right clothes?”
5. Wrap up with a group discussion. Summarize the checklist and ask the Scouts to share one thing they learned about staying safe.

The BSA SAFE Checklist is a great tool to teach Scouts about safety. This activity helps them understand how to be safe during a campout and why safety is everyone’s responsibility. By talking about it as a group, Scouts can see how these ideas will help them have a safe and fun outdoor adventure. It also gives them confidence to handle challenges they might face.

Finding Our Way: Map Reading Made Simple

Understanding how to read a map is a key skill for outdoor adventures. During this 15-minute activity, we’ll talk about the basics of map reading and navigation. Scouts will learn how to read a map and locate the campsite. We’ll also talk about how maps help us plan our trips and stay safe. This activity is hands-on and helps build confidence in using maps.

1. Start with an introduction. Show the Scouts a map of the area where the campout will take place. Explain that maps are tools that help us find our way and understand the land around us.
2. Teach basic map features. Point out important parts of the map, such as the legend, scale, compass rose, and contour lines. Keep it simple and explain what each one is used for.
3. Locate the campsite. Show Scouts where the campsite is on the map. Use landmarks like roads, trails, or water features to help them find it.
4. Practice navigation. Ask Scouts to trace the route from a starting point to the campsite. Talk about how they would use the map to plan the best path. Mention things to look for, like changes in elevation or natural obstacles.
5. Discuss real-life uses. Ask Scouts how they think maps can help during a hike or campout. For example, “What would you do if you got separated from the group and had a map?”

This activity gives Scouts a basic understanding of how to use a map. They’ll learn how to read map features, find locations, and plan routes. By the end, they’ll feel more confident about navigating and using maps during the campout. It’s a fun way to build a skill they’ll use throughout their outdoor adventures.

Snack time is a chance for Scouts to relax and recharge, but it can also be a learning opportunity. For this 10-minute break, Scouts will make their own trail mix. While they mix their snacks, we’ll talk about what makes a good camping snack. This is a fun and tasty way to teach about nutrition and packing food for outdoor adventures.

Instructions for Trail Mix Creation:

1. Set up a snack station. Arrange bowls of ingredients for trail mix. Include things like pretzels, dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, granola, and seeds. Make sure there are options for different tastes and allergies.
2. Give Scouts a small bag or cup. Each Scout will use this to create their personal trail mix.
3. Let Scouts assemble their mix. Encourage them to pick a variety of ingredients. Talk about why each ingredient is good for camping. For example, “Dried fruit gives you energy, and nuts are packed with protein.”
4. Discuss food safety. Remind Scouts to pack snacks in resealable bags or containers. Talk about choosing snacks that don’t spoil easily and are easy to carry.
5. Enjoy the snack. Once everyone has their trail mix, take a few minutes to eat and chat about their favorite ingredients. Use this time to remind them how important it is to stay fueled on outdoor adventures.

This snack break is more than just a tasty treat—it’s a chance to teach Scouts about smart snacking for camping. By making their own trail mix, they learn how to choose foods that are lightweight, nutritious, and easy to pack. It’s a simple and fun way to keep the meeting engaging while building useful skills for the outdoors.

The closing is an important part of the meeting. It gives Scouts a chance to reflect on what they’ve learned and connect it to the Scout Law. During this 10-minute closing, we’ll share key takeaways, talk about how these skills will help on the campout, and end with a short inspirational message. This helps Scouts feel proud of their work and excited for what’s ahead.

1. Gather everyone in a circle. Make sure all Scouts are focused and ready to listen.
2. Ask for reflections. Encourage Scouts to share one thing they learned or enjoyed during the meeting. For example, “What did you find interesting about the map activity?” or “How do you think the gear list will help you on the campout?”
3. Tie it to the Scout Law. Talk about how the activities today connect to being prepared, helpful, and thrifty. Remind them that these are qualities of a good Scout and will help them on their camping adventure.
4. End with a Scoutmaster’s (Den Leader’s) Minute. Share a short story or message to inspire them. Keep it simple and meaningful.

Scoutmaster’s (Den Leader’s) Minute:

Today, we talked a lot about being prepared for our campout. Being prepared isn’t just about having the right gear or knowing how to pack a bag. It’s also about having the right mindset. It’s about being ready to help others, solve problems, and take on challenges with a positive attitude.

When we go camping, we’re learning more than outdoor skills—we’re also learning how to be trustworthy, helpful, and brave. Those are skills we’ll use for the rest of our lives, no matter where we go. So as you get ready for the campout, remember that being prepared is about more than what’s in your backpack. It’s about who you are as a Scout.

The closing wraps up the meeting on a positive note. Reflecting on the activities helps Scouts see how much they’ve learned. Connecting it to the Scout Law reminds them why these skills matter. Ending with an inspiring message sends them home feeling proud and ready for their upcoming adventure.

Arrow of Light Outdoor Adventurer Adventure

The Arrow of Light Outdoor Adventurer Adventure is a key activity for Cub Scouts aiming to enhance their outdoor skills. Scouts learn about essential camping gear, safety protocols, and campsite selection. They also practice map reading and understand the importance of the BSA SAFE Checklist. These experiences prepare them for a successful campout and foster teamwork and responsibility.

Participating in this adventure helps Scouts build confidence in outdoor settings. They engage in hands-on tasks like setting up tents, maintaining a sanitary kitchen area, and following the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles. Reflecting on their experiences after the campout encourages personal growth and prepares them for future adventures.

See more resources for this adventure here.

How long should the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting take?

The meeting is planned for 90 minutes. This includes time for activities, a snack, and the closing reflection.

What materials do I need to prepare for the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting?

You’ll need items for the Scout Basic Essentials, a backpack for the packing demonstration, a campsite map, trail mix ingredients, worksheets for packing lists, copies of the BSA SAFE Checklist, and any tables or supplies for activities.

Do I need to ask parents for help?

Yes, it’s helpful to ask parents to bring trail mix ingredients or donate items like Scout Basic Essentials for the relay. You can also invite them to assist with activities or setup for the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting.

What should I do if a Scout has a food allergy?

Check with parents ahead of time and adjust the snack options as needed. Include allergy-friendly ingredients for trail mix to ensure everyone can participate.

What if a Scout misses this Outdoor Adventurer den meeting?

Provide worksheets and instructions for the missed activities so Scouts can complete them at home with their parents. Make sure they understand how this ties into the campout preparation.

How should I handle the gathering activity for the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting?

Set up the Outdoor Essentials Relay before the meeting starts. As Scouts arrive, guide them to the activity to get them engaged right away.

What if I don’t have all the gear for the activities?

Use pictures or printable images of the Scout Basic Essentials if you can’t gather all the items. For the packing demonstration, use what you have and explain substitutions as needed.

How can I keep Scouts focused during the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting?

Keep activities hands-on and interactive. Use simple instructions and keep transitions between activities quick to hold their attention.

What should I do to prepare ahead of time for the Outdoor Adventurer den meeting?

Gather all materials, print worksheets and checklists, and review the requirements. Set up stations for activities before the meeting starts, and plan your Scoutmaster’s Minute to end on a strong note.

How does this Outdoor Adventurer den meeting connect to the Outdoor Adventurer campout?

This den meeting builds skills Scouts will use on the campout, like packing gear, staying safe, and navigating. It helps them feel ready and confident for their outdoor adventure.

This den meeting plan is all about preparing Arrow of Light Scouts for their campout. It teaches practical skills like packing, staying safe, and reading a map. At the same time, it ties everything back to the Scout Law, showing Scouts how their actions reflect the values of Scouting. By the end of the meeting, your Scouts will feel more confident and ready to take on their outdoor adventure.

The hands-on activities keep Scouts engaged while building important skills. Whether it’s learning about the Scout Basic Essentials, creating a packing list, or making their own trail mix, the meeting is full of opportunities for Scouts to learn and have fun. These activities also give them a sense of independence as they prepare for the campout.

As a leader, this plan helps you guide Scouts through the first steps of the Outdoor Adventurer adventure. It’s organized, easy to follow, and designed to fit into 90 minutes. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to lead a meeting that’s both fun and meaningful.

After this meeting, your Scouts will be on their way to a successful campout. They’ll understand what it means to “Be Prepared,” and they’ll know how to put that into action. Most importantly, they’ll leave excited about the adventure ahead and ready to embrace the challenges of the outdoors.