BALOO/IOLS Spring 2025

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills

(For Scouts BSA Leaders)

This hands-on program gives adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the outdoors. You will set up a campsite, pitch a tent, hike, and cook outdoors—basically all the skills necessary to see the outdoor program of the Boy Scouts of America come to life. This training will ensure that new leaders are proficient in the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank. Leaders will leave the training experience knowing they can show their Scouts how to accomplish outdoor skills while fulfilling rank requirements.

Leaders will leave the training experience knowing they can show their Scouts how to accomplish outdoor skills while fulfilling rank requirements.

Basic Adult Leadership Outdoor Orientation

(For Cub Scout Leaders)

BALOO is designed as an introduction for Cub Scout leaders who are interested in adding a camping component to their pack activities. Each Pack is required to have at least one BALOO trained adult on every Cub Scout overnight outdoor event—including pack camping and Webelos/AOL Den overnighters. BSA's Cub Scout level camping policies will be taught along with the necessary tools to help units carry out a successful camping experience.

You MUST complete the BALOO on-line training prior to attending the hands-on training.

NOTE:  Camping overnight is now required for BALOO and is also a requirement for IOLS.

REQUIRED:  In addition to the outdoor training, all participants are required to complete all components of the Program Safety prior to the BALOO/IOLS weekend.  These are online at my.scouting.org.

• Hazardous Weather
• Safe Swim Defense
• Safety Afloat
• Climb On Safely
• Drive Safely

NOTE:  Each of the Program Safety training modules will take 15-20 minutes and the BALOO prerequisite training will take 60-90 minutes. So, please plan ahead.

Participants must bring their certificates of completion with them to the first day of training, on Saturday, to be allowed to attend the BALOO/IOLS course.  We cannot accept emailed certificates.

All participants should also purchase a copy of the Scouts BSA Handbook and bring it.

Fee:  $55.00 (includes Course Supplies and Meals)

Early registration ($10 discount) ends on Friday, April 11, 2025.

Registration deadline is Monday, April 28, 2025, 11:59 PM

There is no Late registration.

Course Schedule:   Saturday (5/3) morning – Sunday (5/4) noon  

BALOO:  Arrive Saturday at 7:00 am     IOLS:  Arrive Saturday at 7:30 am

BALOO and IOLS:  Depart Sunday around noon

Course Location:  Louisiana Renaissance Festival, 46468 River Road, Hammond LA 

Please bring the BSA Health and Medical Forms A & B.

Annual Health and Medical Record

One-two days after registering online you will receive an email confirmation, a packing list of “What to Bring” and any special instructions.

If you do not own or have access to a tent, please contact the Course Director a week prior to the course.

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