Fun and Challenge
Scouts BSA
Scouts BSA is for youth ages 11–17 who crave excitement, growth, and purpose. Through outdoor adventures, skill-building, and service, Scouts discover who they are—and who they can become.
Why join Scouts BSA?
Experience camping, hiking, archery, and survival skills
Earn from over 135 unique merit badges
Advance through ranks toward the prestigious Eagle Scout
Build leadership and character through hands-on learning
Serve your community and make lasting friendships
Gain recognition that lasts a lifetime
Scouting builds more than skills—it builds future leaders.
Scouting America offers youth various opportunities to develop new skills and expertise in a wide array of activities, including archery, camping, hiking, wilderness survival, and fishing. They also get to volunteer and contribute to their communities and nature while enjoying camaraderie with their fellow scouts. All this hard work and learning pays off in multiple ways as they continue in the scouting program.
Scouts have about hundred awards available to them in Scouting America, including rank advancements and individual awards. There are plenty of opportunities for scouts to focus on as they advance through the ranks all the way up to Eagle Scout. These advancements and awards are earned through a scout’s achievements and developments through hands-on learning and growth and leadership opportunities.
There are more than 135 merit badges for BSA Scouts to earn, covering a wide array of skills and personal growth. You can earn any of these badges at any time. Talk to your unit leader about your interests and work with a Merit Badge counselor to earn badges in subjects you like. Subjects include lifesaving, first aid, swimming, photography, theater, motorboating, rowing, and an extensive collection of other activities.
Eagle Scout is the highest rank a scout can earn. It is recognized across the country as a milestone of accomplishment. By advancing through the ranks and completing all the requirements, such as ranks, merit badges, and service projects, you can earn the top rank in scouting and hold that honor for the rest of your life. Those who achieve the Eagle Scout rank know it’s more than an award. You earn it every day of your adult life.
Golden Gate Area Council-Scouting America encourages youth to get involved with their local troop today to explore the many activities and opportunities they have available. Excitement, growth, and camaraderie are just a few benefits you will gain when you join.
* Effective April 18, 2022
The Scouts BSA program joining requirements will be changed to the following:
Youth can be Scouts if they are at least 10 years old, currently in the fifth grade, and register on or after March 1st; OR have earned the Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10 years old, OR are age 11 but have not reached age 18.
This language will be updated on the Scouting America Youth Application as well as in the Registration Guidebook.
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Order of the Arrow
