Planning a trip for your scout group is a great way to explore the world while earning merit badges. There are so many options, depending on what you want to accomplish. Consider these 4 best scout trips for merit badges!
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. is a great trip for scout troops. The first National Boy Scout Jamboree was held near the Washington Monument in 1937 and every president since the 27th has been an honorary president of Boy Scouts of America.
NATIONAL SCOUT JAMBOREE THROUGH THE YEARS
As you plan a trip to Washington D.C., include stops at Capitol Hill, the Supreme Court, White House and National Archives. Visit the monuments (especially impressive at night) and the National Smithsonian Museums. Scouts will earn Citizenship Badges for branches of the federal government and national monuments.
Include a stop at Arlington Cemetery to witness the Changing of the Guard, visit John F. Kennedy’s gravesite and pay respects at the Tomb of the Unknown. Participate in a wreath-laying ceremony -a somber and incredibly moving experience for visitors. Once complete, scouts are eligible for the American Heritage Badge.
TAKE A SCOUT HISTORY TOUR OF WASHINGTON D.C.
As you wrap up your D.C. adventures, don’t forget to stop at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s historic home. Spend the day exploring the mansion, lush grounds, grist mill, distillery, and museum. Education programs for scouts are available as well.
U.S. Space and Rocket Center
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama offers a world of scientific wonder and space exploration for all ages.
Space Camp is designed for campers aged 9-11 and highlights real-world applications for science, technology, engineering and math. Scouts can earn a Space Exploration Badge for their work.
Aviation Challenge is a weeklong immersion in military life and flight. Campers will learn shelter building and other survival tactics as they earn an Aviation Badge.
Take part in Robotics Camp or Academy (depending on age). Work as a team to design robots for land, air and underwater. Winning teams will build their creations. All participants can work toward the Robotics Badge.
National Parks
The Scout Ranger Program is designed for scouts to participate in educational or service projects in our national parks. They learn about protecting our natural and cultural resources while exploring spectacular surroundings. The Ranger program is available at most national parks, monuments or sites protected by the National Park Service. Scouts can earn a certificate for 5 hours of volunteer time or a patch for 10 volunteer hours.
Disney Youth Education Series
The Disney Youth Education Series (YES) at Walt Disney World is a hands-on adventure for scouts! YES classes are guided, in-park educational field studies by Disney Cast Members. Girl and Boy Scouts explore applied sciences, environmental studies, leadership and more.
YES classes meet several badge requirements, including American Culture, Chemistry, Movie Making, Nature, Oceanography, Photography and Reptile/Amphibian Studies.
FIRST LOOK AT THIS YEAR’S WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT GIRL SCOUT PATCH
Scouting is a wonderful way to encourage responsibility, learning and adventure. Planning a trip is a creative way to accomplish the goals set forth by scout organizations. These are 4 of the best scout trips for merit badges that your scouts will love!
