Youth Grades K – 5

Cub Scouting: Where Fun Meets Growth

Youth Grades K-5

Cub Scouting is family adventure at its best. It’s where kids bring their current best selves—curious, energetic, and ready to explore—and build toward their future best selves through hands-on experiences, achievement, and fun that never feels like “just learning.”

Across every den and pack, Cub Scouts are trying new things, discovering what they’re capable of, and building confidence one adventure at a time. It’s active, engaging, and designed to put youth right in the middle of the action while preparing them for life ahead.
Group of Cub Scouts gathered outdoors in a wooded area with the Cub Scouts logo displayed above them.

The Heart of Scouting

The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives by instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

Scouting is guided by four key aims:

Citizenship

Character

Personal Fitness

Leadership

Find Your Next Adventure

Explore upcoming Cub Scout events and discover opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.
Search events in your area—or explore opportunities across other councils to keep the adventure going.

How Cub Scouting Comes to Life

Cub Scouting uses proven methods to create meaningful experiences:

Living the ideals of the Scout Oath and Law

Belonging to a den

Advancement through fun, achievement-based goals

Family involvement at every stage

Activities that spark excitement and discovery

Serving the community

Wearing the uniform with pride

Leader Resources and Support

Great programs start with great support. Cub Scouts offers a dedicated hub of tools, ideas, and training for Cub Scout leaders—packed with videos, program tips, and practical guidance to help every leader deliver an outstanding experience.

Camping and Adventure Opportunities

From family campouts to pack “camp-ins,” Cub Scouting brings adventure outdoors and indoors alike. These shared experiences build memories, strengthen families, and create lasting excitement for Scouting.

Approved Cub Scout overnight locations are available for download below.

Cold Weather Camping Guidance: SAFE Checklist

Cub Scout camping should always be safe, fun, and age-appropriate, especially in colder months.
When planning cold-weather activities, leaders should use the SAFE Checklist
S

afety and Comfort First

  • Layering and proper sleeping gear are essential.
  • Warm, dry shelter should be available when needed.
  • Monitor youth continuously for comfort and safety.
A

ssessment

  • Ensure the experience is safe and enjoyable for all participants.
  • Confirm leaders are trained and conditions are appropriate.
  • Adjust plans if weather makes overnight camping unsafe.
F

lexible Programming Options

If conditions shift:

  • Shorten outdoor activities.
  • Increase indoor programming.
  • Convert to day-only events or reschedule.
E

quipment and Environment

  • Verify campsite facilities are operational and suitable.
  • Ensure proper cold-weather gear is available and understood.
  • Be prepared to modify plans if conditions change.

Support Our Scouting Troops

Support can take many forms: Donate through Friends of Scouting, purchase popcorn or camp cards from a local Scout, attend our Women of Achievement dinner or regional Citizenship Awards dinners, and so much more. Your support of Scouting enables Garden State Council to support the experiences of nearly 5,000 youth throughout South Jersey!