Cub Scout Camping Guide for New Families

Welcome to Cub Scouting! We understand your first campout can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—your Pack Family is here to help! Below is a simple guide to make your experience easier and more enjoyable.

Tents

• Bring Your Own Tent: Each family brings their own tent. When choosing a size, halve the manufacturer’s suggested capacity (e.g., a 4-person tent fits 2 people and their gear comfortably).

• Buying a Tent: If you're purchasing used, check for damage and make sure all poles are included. For new tents, affordable options include Ozark Trail (Walmart), Coleman, and Core Equipment (Amazon).

• Waterproofing: Ensure your tent is waterproofed and the seams are sealed or taped. Otherwise, your tent may leak in the rain!

• Warmth: Tents offer minimal warmth—your comfort comes mainly from your sleeping pad and bag.

Camping Pad or Cot

• Choose Based on Comfort: Whether you choose a sleeping pad, cot, or air mattress, make sure it fits inside your tent.

• Air Mattress Caution: Air mattresses can be cold without insulation, especially in cooler weather.

Sleeping Bags

• Temperature Rating: For fall and spring camping, choose a bag rated for 10-15° colder than the expected overnight temperature. If a bag is rated for 40°F, it’s likely comfortable around 50-55°F.

• Stay Warm: Combine your sleeping bag with a good pad or cot for warmth. Bring extra blankets and wear warm clothes, including a hat, for cooler nights. A lightweight sheet is ideal for warmer weather. Don’t forget your pillow!

Clothing

• Pack for the Weather: Check the forecast and pack accordingly. Scouts love to get dirty and wet, especially during activities like playing at Pebble Beach, so pack extra clothes and shoes.

Camping Chair

• Bring a Chair: Chairs for each family member are recommended, though campsites typically have picnic tables for meals.

Cookware

• Pack Provides Food: The Pack will provide food, cookware, plates, cups, and utensils. You may want to bring your own mug for hot drinks and a refillable water bottle**.

Flashlights

• One Per Person: Each camper should have a flashlight**. Headlamps are often preferred by kids, but remind them to avoid shining lights in people’s faces.

First Aid Kit

• Pack the Essentials: Bring a small first aid kit** with items like bite/sting ointment, pain relievers, and any family-specific medications.

Shower Items

• One-Night Camping: Most campers do not shower during one-night campouts, but pack toiletries and a laundry bag for dirty clothes.

Rain Gear

• Don't Forget It: Rain gear is often left behind! Keep a cheap poncho in your camp gear for unexpected showers.

Bug Spray, Sunscreen, and Hat

• Essentials: Each person should have their own bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat.

Pocketknives

• For Eligible Scouts Only: Only Bear Scouts, Webelos, or Arrow of Light Scouts who have earned their Whittling Chip can carry pocketknives. They must have their Whittling Chip card with them.

Campfires

• Provided by the Pack: The Pack provides firewood and supplies. You can help by collecting dryer lint in a Ziploc bag for fire starters. Note: Cub Scouts are not allowed to start or tend fires.

Day Pack

• For Activities: Bring a daypack or sling bag to carry snacks, a water bottle, and the Cub Scout Six Essentials while hiking or during activities.

Gear Box or Duffle

• Stay Organized: Invest in a weather-proof storage box or large duffle to keep your camping gear organized and ready for each outing.

Alcohol and Tobacco

• Alcohol: Alcohol is prohibited at all Scouting events, including camping.

• Tobacco: Tobacco and vaping products must be used out of sight of Scouts and away from program areas. There may not be a designated smoking area at all campsites, so plan accordingly.

**Items marked with ** are part of the Cub Scout Six Essentials.

This guide is designed to help make your camping experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. If you ever need advice or assistance, your Pack Family is always ready to help! Happy camping!