Join us for the Outdoor Academy on the weekend of April 10–12, 2026, at Hidden Valley Scout Reservation in Loysville, PA, for a training experience unlike any other. Hosted by the New Birth of Freedom Council, this hands-on weekend is open to all Scouters, Venturers, and older Scouts who want to build skills, connect with fellow leaders, and strengthen the outdoor programs they deliver to youth.
The Outdoor Academy is a weekend packed with outdoor-focused training, practical learning, networking, and fun. Nearly a dozen courses will be offered, many of which can help you check off important items on your training “to-do” list. Participants will have the opportunity to complete courses such as CPR/AED/Basic First Aid, Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills, Wilderness and Remote First Aid, Angling Educator, Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO), Certified Angling Instructor, Rangemaster, and Paddle Craft Safety. Whether you are working toward required training or simply looking to expand your skills, there is something for everyone.
We encourage participants to come for a class they need and stay for another that will help them deliver an even stronger, safer, and more engaging program to the Scouts they serve. The Outdoor Academy is also a great opportunity to share ideas, learn from experienced instructors, and build connections with other Scouters from across the council.
The base cost for the weekend is just $18, which includes meals and a place to pitch your tent. Each course has a small additional fee to cover materials and certification costs. Class sizes are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is strongly encouraged to secure your preferred courses.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this outstanding training event. Register now for the 2026 Outdoor Academy and invest in skills that will benefit both you and the youth in your program. For more information or questions, please contact Outdoor Academy Headmaster Andrew Clark at (443) 465-0446 or Staff Advisor Roger Chatell at 717-620-4515.
