Why Scouting America – Baden-Powell Council is the Perfect Adventure for Your Family
If you’re looking for a way to get your kids off their screens, into the great outdoors, and learning real-life skills, Scouting America – Baden-Powell Council is the perfect place to start. More than just camping and hiking, Scouting builds confidence, leadership, and friendships that last a lifetime.
What is Scouting America – Baden-Powell Council?
Scouting America is the nation’s leading youth leadership and character development organization, and Baden-Powell Council is our local council serving families across Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Tioga, and Tompkins counties in New York, plus Susquehanna County in Pennsylvania. With fun, hands-on programs for boys and girls from Kindergarten through high school, Scouting helps kids develop independence, responsibility, and teamwork—all while having the time of their lives.
Scouting is for Everyone!
No matter your child’s interests, Scouting has a program for them:
✔️ Cub Scouts (Grades K-5) – Hands-on activities, community service, and outdoor fun for younger kids.
✔️ Scouts BSA (Ages 11-17) – Camping, leadership, and real-world skills for older youth.
✔️ Venturing (Ages 14-20) – High-adventure challenges and leadership training.
✔️ Exploring (Ages 10-20) – Career-based programs in fields like law enforcement, healthcare, and aviation.
Outdoor Adventures at Camp Tuscarora Baden-Powell Council operates Camp Tuscarora (lovingly called “Tusky”), a 625-acre outdoor paradise with:
🌲 A 35-acre lake for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding
🏹 Shooting sports and archery
⛰️ A 40-ft climbing wall
🚲 16 miles of hiking trails and 7 miles of mountain biking
🔥 Traditional summer camp experiences—where kids make lifelong friends
And guess what? Parents are welcome to get involved too! Scouting is a family adventure, and many moms and dads find themselves camping, crafting, and learning right alongside their kids.
Why Scouting?
The Skills & Values Kids Gain Parents love Scouting because it teaches essential life skills—things like cooking, money management, first aid, and problem-solving. But even more importantly, it builds character. Scouts learn the Scout Oath and Law, which emphasizes:
✔️ Being helpful, kind, and trustworthy
✔️ Respecting others and the environment
✔️ Taking responsibility and leading by example Whether your child dreams of being an astronaut, a firefighter, or an entrepreneur, the confidence and leadership skills they gain in Scouting will set them up for success in whatever path they choose.
Get Your Family Involved!
The best way to learn more is to attend a local Scouting event—many Cub Scout packs and Scout troops host fun, free events throughout the year where families can try out Scouting firsthand.
Want to find a Scouting group near you? Visit bpcouncil.org to get started. Join us in raising confident, adventurous, and resilient kids—because the best childhood memories are made outdoors! 🌿✨
