Upcoming Events: November 2025
Popcorn Fundraiser
Popcorn orders due: November 2, 2025.
Unit pickup: November 14, 2025.
Selling popcorn is a great way to fund your unit for a whole year! Are you looking for an avenue for your Scouts to earn their own way?
Arrow of Light Advancement Day
November 7-9, 2025
Arrow of Light Advancement Day is an opportunity for Arrow of Light Scouts in 5th grade to earn advancements and prepare for the next Scouting journey, Scouts BSA.
Campsgiving
November 23-25, 2025
Campsgiving is held over Thanksgiving break and consists of a traditional camp, STEM camp, and high adventure. This fantastic opportunity is for troops and individual Scouts as part of Super Troop. Scouts can earn merit badges, participate in fun evening programs, and engage in various activities. A Super Troop option is available for individual Scouts.
Fall Fellowship
October 31-November 2, 2025
Fall Fellowship is Colonneh Lodge’s premier event with a weekend full of gripping competition, exciting games, thrilling shows, and so much more for Order of the Arrow members. There will be three days of non-stop fun and fellowship at Camp Strake, including Colonneh Lodge officer elections and the Vigil Honor callout. All youth Arrowmen attending will be eligible to vote for the upcoming team of lodge officers. Arrowmen will not want to miss out on this fantastic weekend!
Full Throttle
December 5-7, 2025
Full Throttle is a weekend event for troops, crews and ships. Scouts spend a half-day participating in program areas such as shooting sports, climbing, swimming, ziplining, and boating. Scouts will spend a half-day working on a merit badge. Acquire valuable trade skills from our industry experts.
Winter Camp
December 26-31, 2025
Winter camp is a fantastic opportunity for troops to camp and Scouts to earn merit badges, participate in fun evening programs, and engage in various activities. There are over 80 merit badge classes taught by Scouters with real-life experiences in the field. Similar to summer camp, a Super Troop is offered for individual Scouts.
University of Scouting
January 17, 2026
University of Scouting is a semi-annual supplemental training program. Sessions are led by experienced volunteers who will help leaders and parents enhance their ability to deliver a fun and exciting program to the Scouts.
Summer Camp
June/July 2026
Memories created during summer camp last a lifetime, whether Scouts are engaging in the popular first-year camper program, earning merit badges, or embarking on high adventure experiences. If your unit has not been to Camp Strake in the past few years, come check out the amazing things happening! Come home to Camp Strake this year!
Adventure Camp
Adventure Camp is a weekend campout at Bovay Scout Ranch for Cub Scouts and their families. Scouts can participate in an exciting variety of activities at several program areas and STEM-based activities.
Range and Target Activities Training
Scouting America, in consultation with other organizations, has developed specific guidelines, training, and instructor certification for Scouts and Scouters who will serve in leadership or supervisory roles in various range and target activities. Register for upcoming range master, archery, and firearms training.
First Aid Training
The Scout Oath instills in youth that, “On my honor I will do my best … to help other people at all times.” Emergency care is no exception. CPR/AED, first aid, and wilderness first aid trainings are offered to help Scouting America volunteers and staff members teach Scouts how to provide life-saving care in the event of an emergency. Register
COPE & Climbing Training
During climbing training, participants learn to teach Scouts how to climb and rappel. COPE utilizes mental and physical challenges, both above and below ground, to teach confidence, self-esteem, trust, leadership, team building, and problem-solving.
Wood Badge
Wood Badge is the ultimate leadership training designed to meet the advanced leadership needs of Scouters. Held over two weekends, participants can expect to develop skills in many areas, including leadership theory, team building, problem-solving, communication, and project planning. Courses are held twice a year.
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is designed to provide Scouts in troops, crews, and ships with leadership skills and experiences they can use in their unit and other situations demanding leadership of self and others.
Make an Impact
Troops are needed to support Adventure Camps. Sign up your troop to volunteer and enjoy free camping and meals while contributing to the future of Scouting!
Full Throttle
December 5-7, 2025
Full Throttle is a weekend event for troops, crews and ships. Scouts spend a half-day participating in program areas such as shooting sports, climbing, swimming, ziplining, and boating. Scouts will spend a half-day working on a merit badge. Acquire valuable trade skills from our industry experts.
Winter Camp
December 26-31, 2025
Winter camp is a fantastic opportunity for troops to camp and Scouts to earn merit badges, participate in fun evening programs, and engage in various activities. There are over 80 merit badge classes taught by Scouters with real-life experiences in the field. Similar to summer camp, a Super Troop is offered for individual Scouts.
Council Recognition Reception
January 10, 2026
The Council Recognition Reception is held annually at the council office to honor the recipients of the Silver Beaver Award and heroism awards. The Silver Beaver Award is the highest form of recognition that a local council can bestow on a volunteer.
University of Scouting
January 17, 2026
University of Scouting is a semi-annual supplemental training program. Sessions are led by experienced volunteers who will help leaders and parents enhance their ability to deliver a fun and exciting program to the Scouts.
Camp Staff Interviews
January 24, 2026
Sam Houston Area Council has a great challenge each year to provide Scouts and Scouters who attend our camps with a great camping experience. The council is looking for a few dedicated individuals (ages 16+) to serve Scouting by being a staff member at one of the council's camps. The requirements are stiff; the jobs are demanding; the experience is exhilarating. Sign up for an interview.
Scouting for Food
January 31, 2026 - Door Hangers Distribution
February 7, 2026 - Food Pickup
Scouting for Food, a council-wide service project to care for people in our local communities who are hungry, begins January 31, 2026, as Scouts distribute door hangers. Scouts return on February 7, 2026, to pick up and deliver donations. Sign up your unit to participate.
Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award
Nominations due January 31, 2026
The Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award recognizes the Scout for their Eagle Scout leadership service project, which is part of the requirements for earning the Eagle Scout award.
Trail to Eagle Scout Camp
March 8-12, 2026
Trail to Eagle Scout Camp is being held over spring break. Troops and individual Scouts who have been in a troop for at least one year can attend. The program provides opportunities for Scouts to earn Eagle-required merit badges along their advancement trail.
Summer Camp
June/July 2026
Memories created during summer camp last a lifetime, whether Scouts are engaging in the popular first-year camper program, earning merit badges, or embarking on high-adventure experiences. If your unit has not been to Camp Strake in the past few years, come check out the amazing things happening! Come home to Camp Strake this year!
Adventure Camp
Adventure Camp is a weekend campout at Bovay Scout Ranch for Cub Scouts and their families. Scouts can participate in an exciting variety of activities in several program areas and STEM-based activities.
Range and Target Activities Training
Scouting America, in consultation with other organizations, has developed specific guidelines, training, and instructor certification for Scouts and Scouters who will serve in leadership or supervisory roles in various range and target activities. Register for upcoming range master, archery, and firearms training.
First Aid Training
The Scout Oath instills in youth that, “On my honor I will do my best … to help other people at all times.” Emergency care is no exception. CPR/AED, first aid, and wilderness first aid trainings are offered to help Scouting America volunteers and staff teach Scouts how to provide life-saving care in the event of an emergency. Register
COPE & Climbing Training
During climbing training, participants learn to teach Scouts how to climb and rappel. COPE uses mental and physical challenges, both above and below ground, to build confidence, self-esteem, trust, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Wood Badge
Wood Badge is the ultimate leadership training designed to meet the advanced leadership needs of Scouters. Held over two weekends, participants can expect to develop skills in leadership theory, team building, problem-solving, communication, and project planning. Courses are held twice a year.
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is designed to provide Scouts in troops, crews, and ships with leadership skills and experiences they can use in their units and in other situations that demand leadership of self and others.
Make an Impact
Troops are needed to support Adventure Camps. Sign up your troop to volunteer and enjoy free camping and meals while contributing to the future of Scouting!
COUNCIL ARTICLES
DISTRICT ARTICLES
District Roundtable
Date | Time | Location
Roundtable is a district monthly meeting typically held on the second Thursday of the month to help unit leaders plan and carry out their own program. Roundtable is a form of supplemental training for volunteers. The objective of roundtable is to give leaders program ideas, information on events and training opportunities, and an opportunity to share experiences and enjoy fun and fellowship with other Scouting leaders. As a result of the roundtable experience, unit leaders will be inspired, motivated, informed, and able to provide a stronger program for their Scouts.
Communications
Keep up with everything happening in the district at <insert>. Like, follow, and share our page. Send us photos of Scouts in action through Facebook Messenger — we love showcasing our Scouts’ adventures!
Share our newsletter link with Scouting families so they can receive the latest updates, events, and highlights delivered straight to their inbox.
Follow the Sam Houston Area Council at facebook.com/SHAC.BSA for news and updates across the council.
Rocket Day
Date | Time | Location
Youth who join Cub Scouts this year will receive a rocket that they can design, build, and launch at Rocket Day. Youth in kindergarten through fifth grade who are interested in joining Scouting may also attend. We will help you find a pack near you and get signed up for Scouting. The event is free; please RSVP so we can make sure we have an engine available for your Scout. Learn more and register. <insert link>
District Award Nominations
Date | Time | Location
Nominate Scouters who have served <insert district> District youth above and beyond the call of duty. Awards are presented at the District Recognition Event. Nomination form. <insert link>
District Recognition Event
Date | Time | Location
The District Recognition Event is an opportunity for a night of fellowship and great food as we acknowledge and thank our adult volunteers for the hard work and dedication that made this year incredibly successful. <insert district> District’s outstanding leaders at the unit and district levels will be recognized. All volunteers in <insert district> District are invited. Learn more and purchase tickets. <insert link>
Pushmobile
Date | Time | Location
A pushmobile is a youth-powered go-cart. Cub Scout dens make their own pushmobile. Six Cub Scouts work together as a team to push their pushmobile through the course to the finish line at this annual district event. The purpose of this event is to have fun, promote participation in a team effort, and to provide an activity where "doing your best" is most important. Awards are presented to the top three teams per rank and to the top three packs. Learn more and register. <insert link>
Pinewood Derby
Date | Time | Location
The pinewood derby is one of the most popular and successful family activities in Cub Scouting. Pinewood derby cars are small wooden models that Cub Scouts make with help from their families. Then they race the cars in competition. The cars are powered by gravity and run down a track. Every Cub Scout can design and build their own grand prix car to enter in the race. Win or lose, Scouts will take pride in having done their best. Scouts learn craft skills, the rules of fair play, and good sportsmanship—things they will remember for life. Learn more and register. <insert link>
District First Aid Meet
Date | Time | Location
The First Aid Meet is an event that challenges Scouts in troops to perform first aid in simulated real-life situations. Scouts in patrols compete in practical first aid problems, displaying hands-on skills from the Scout Handbook, First Aid Merit Badge pamphlet and current American Red Cross guidelines. Patrols can also compete at the council First Aid Meet. Learn more and register. <insert link>
Trail to Troop
Date | Time | Location
Trail to Troop is a campout designed to introduce Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts to the many outdoor adventures of Scouting. This awesome weekend event includes patrol-method camping and Scout activities. On Saturday, dens compete in Scout skills. The dens are judged on den flag and yell, resources, leadership, teamwork, skill demonstration and Scout spirit. Learn more and register. <insert link>
Merit Badge Fair
Date | Time | Location
The Merit Badge Fair is an opportunity for Scouts in troops, crews, or ships of any rank to work on one or two merit badges. These are not giveaway merit badges, and this is not a merit badge factory. Each Scout is expected to prepare ahead of time (by reading the merit badge book and completing prerequisites), and to participate fully during the course to receive credit for the requirements completed. Learn more and register.
Merit Badge University
Date | Time | Location
The Merit Badge University is an opportunity for Scouts in troops, crews, or ships of any rank to work on one or two merit badges. These are not giveaway merit badges, and this is not a merit badge factory. Each Scout is expected to prepare ahead of time (by reading the merit badge book and completing prerequisites), and to participate fully during the course to receive credit for the requirements completed. Learn more and register.
Camporee
Date | Time | Location
The camporee is a weekend campout for troops. Patrols from different troops will compete in various competitions. Scouts from different troops will come together for friendly competition! Patrols are judged on leadership, teamwork, Scouting skills and Scout spirit. In addition, Scouts will have an opportunity to learn from and about each other through team building and skill-based activities. Learn more and register. <insert link>
Day Camp
Date | Time | Location
Day camp is a council camp hosted by districts for Cub Scouts entering 1st through 5th grade next school year. No matter which camp is chosen, the camp will be loaded with an excellent program such as BB guns, archery, sports, games, crafts, rank advancements, Scout skills, fun, and more. Learn more and register. <insert link>
IOLS Training
Date | Location
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) is an overnight training with 16 hours of instructional time that gives adult leaders the practical knowledge they need to help Scouts learn outdoor skills. The skills presented closely follow the Scout Handbook and rank advancement requirements. This is a required training course for all Scoutmasters and assistant Scoutmasters. See the council training schedule for a list of additional training opportunities. Register.
BALOO Training
Date | Location
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is the Cub Scout leader training required for any Cub Scout den or pack outdoor event, including pack camping and overnighters. BALOO training is comprised of two components – an online component and a practical, hands-on component, which includes an overnight with 16 hours of instruction time. One BALOO-trained leader is required to be present at pack campouts. Register <insert link>
Outdoor Leader Training
Date | Location
Training is a crucial component of developing into an effective leader. Trained leaders impact the quality of programs, leader tenure, youth tenure, and a whole lot more. A trained leader is better prepared to make the Scouting program all it can be! Every Scout deserves a trained leader. Refer to the council training schedule for a list of additional trainings offered by the council.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) is an overnight training program with 16 hours of instructional time, providing adult leaders with the practical knowledge they need to help Scouts develop outdoor skills. The skills presented closely follow the Scout Handbook and rank advancement requirements. This is a required training course for all Scoutmasters and assistant Scoutmasters. Register
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is the Cub Scout leader training required for any Cub Scout den or pack outdoor event, including pack camping, overnighters, Webelos, and Arrow of Light den overnighters. BALOO training consists of two components – an online component and a practical, hands-on component, which includes an overnight experience with 16 hours of instruction time. One BALOO-trained leader is required to be present for any pack family, Webelos, or Arrow of Light den overnight camping. Register
Scouting for Food
January 31, 2026 - Door Hangers Distribution
February 7, 2026 - Food Pickup
Scouting for Food, a council-wide service project to care for people in our local communities who are hungry, begins January 31, 2026, as Scouts distribute door hangers. Scouts return on February 7, 2026, to pick up and deliver donations. Sign up your unit to participate.
OA Chapter Meetings
Date | Time | Location
Order of the Arrow is the national honor society of Scouting America and recognizes Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. OA chapter <insert links to district chapter meetings> provide youth Arrowmen an opportunity to develop a plan to support units in the district, promote upcoming events, participate in ceremony team preparation and regalia building, learn leadership skills and have fun.
District Commissioner Meetings
Date | Time | Location
During commissioner meetings, the commissioners review specific unit needs, discuss ways to support units, examine methods to promote events and provide resources to units, support on-time charter renewal, and evaluate ways to help units and the district maintain the standards of Scouting America.
District Committee Meetings
Date | Time | Location
District committee members work through chartered organizations and community groups to organize and support successful units. Volunteers are invited to attend.
Upcoming Events - October 2025
Let the Adventure Begin
October 4-5, 2025
Let the Adventure Begin is an overnight campout for newly registered Cub Scouts and their adult partner and families at Bovay Scout Ranch. Scouts can participate in archery, slingshots, crafts, rockets, sports, campfire, and more.
Full Throttle
October 3-5, 2025
Full Throttle is a weekend event for troops. Scouts spend a half-day participating in program areas such as range and target activities and climbing. Scouts will spend a half-day working on a merit badge. Learn essential skills that could be useful in a survival scenario.
Campsgiving
November 23-25, 2025
Campsgiving is held over Thanksgiving break and consists of a traditional camp, STEM camp, and high adventure. This fantastic opportunity is for troops and individual Scouts as part of Super Troop. Scouts can earn merit badges, participate in fun evening programs, and engage in various activities. A Super Troop option is available for individual Scouts.
Winter Camp
December 26-31, 2025
Winter camp is a fantastic opportunity for troops to camp and Scouts to earn merit badges, participate in fun evening programs, and engage in various activities. There are over 80 merit badge classes taught by Scouters with real-life experiences in the field. Similar to summer camp, a Super Troop is offered for individual Scouts.
University of Scouting
January 17, 2026
University of Scouting is a semi-annual supplemental training program. Sessions are led by experienced volunteers who will help leaders and parents enhance their ability to deliver a fun and exciting program to the Scouts.
Summer Camp
June/July 2026
Memories created during summer camp last a lifetime, whether Scouts are engaging in the popular first-year camper program, earning merit badges, or embarking on high adventure experiences. If your unit has not been to Camp Strake in the past few years, come check out the amazing things happening! Come home to Camp Strake this year!
Adventure Camp
Adventure Camp is a weekend campout at Bovay Scout Ranch for Cub Scouts and their families. Scouts can participate in an exciting variety of activities at several program areas and STEM-based activities.
Range and Target Activities Training
Scouting America, in consultation with other organizations, has developed specific guidelines, training, and instructor certification for Scouts and Scouters who will serve in leadership or supervisory roles in various range and target activities. Register for upcoming range master, archery, and firearms training.
First Aid Training
The Scout Oath instills in youth that, “On my honor I will do my best … to help other people at all times.” Emergency care is no exception. CPR/AED, first aid, and wilderness first aid trainings are offered to help Scouting America volunteers and staff members teach Scouts how to provide life-saving care in the event of an emergency. Register
COPE & Climbing Training
During climbing training, participants learn to teach Scouts how to climb and rappel. COPE utilizes mental and physical challenges, both above and below ground, to teach confidence, self-esteem, trust, leadership, team building, and problem-solving.
Wood Badge
Wood Badge is the ultimate leadership training designed to meet the advanced leadership needs of Scouters. Held over two weekends, participants can expect to develop skills in many areas, including leadership theory, team building, problem-solving, communication, and project planning. Courses are held twice a year.
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is designed to provide Scouts in troops, crews, and ships with leadership skills and experiences they can use in their unit and other situations demanding leadership of self and others.
Popcorn Fundraiser
Selling popcorn is a great way to fund your unit for a whole year! Are you looking for an avenue for your Scouts to earn their own way? Do you want your Scouts to gain public speaking skills and self-confidence, all while learning about salesmanship? Do you want your Scouts to stay in Scouting? We know that well-funded units can provide their Scouts with amazing outings and adventures. Scouts who participate in those outings and adventures stay in Scouting! The popcorn sale is the perfect opportunity to teach this valuable life lesson and fund the most exciting year of Scouting ever.
Make an Impact
Troops are needed to support Adventure Camps. Sign up your troop to volunteer and enjoy free camping and meals while contributing to the future of Scouting!