Campfire Programs

Overview

First-Time Campers

Rules & Etiquette

Hiking

Summer Camp

Scouts and campfires are a timeless combination. Campfire programs are a signature part of Cub Scout camping. Done well, they build spirit and skills, and close the day with reflection on Scouting’s ideals—citizenship, duty to God, and cheerful service.

Age-appropriate & inclusive: For Cub Scouts, content is G-rated, respectful, and led by adults. Follow council property rules, current fire restrictions, and Scouting America safety guidance. Adults handle ignition and fire management; Cubs help in supervised roles.

Positive Values: Skits/songs stay G-rated—no put-downs or off-color bits; be respectful with patriotic and spiritual songs.

Campfire Safety reminder: Use authorized fire rings only; keep a clear perimeter and no horseplay near the fire; adults ensure fires are “cold out”—douse, stir, douse until cool to the touch.

What makes a great campfire?

• Follow the flames: Plan for ~45–60 minutes. Start lively while the fire is bright; slow the pace as the coals glow; end with a quiet, inspirational closing.

• See the performers: Position leaders/performers where the firelight is on their faces; avoid shining flashlights into the audience.

• Keep it clean & kind: G-rated humor; no put-downs, stereotypes, or cultural misappropriation; respect patriotic & spiritual songs; no references to alcohol/tobacco. Everyone participates—nobody is the punchline.

• Everybody gets a role: Song leaders, skit teams, cheer leaders, audience helpers, and a Cubmaster/Campfire Chief to guide the flow.

Showmanship

Clear voice, big gestures, simple props, and eye contact keep Cubs engaged.

Songs

Start with fast/action songs, move to medium, close with quiet reflective songs.

Stories

Humorous, historic, or inspirational. Keep to 3–4 minutes; project your voice; avoid scary tales for Cubs.

Stunts & Skits

Mix quick run-ons with longer skits. Choose Cub-appropriate, inclusive material.

Ideas: boyscouttrail.com skits

The Campfire & Fire Safety

• Adult-managed fire: Adults handle ignition, adding wood, and extinguishing. Cubs assist with prep under direct supervision.
• Use established rings only and follow posted council/site rules and any burn bans.
• Build smart: Small, well-prepared “log-cabin” style fires give steady light and are easier to control. No accelerants/aerosols; never burn trash/plastic.
• Safety gear ready: Water and a shovel/bucket are at the ring before lighting.
• Perimeter & footing: Maintain a safe audience distance; no running near the fire; tie back long hair; mind loose clothing.
• Cold-out: Drown, stir, and repeat until ash is cold to the touch before leaving.

Tip: Don’t add wood late in the program—let the fire’s mood guide your transition to the quiet closing.

Song Selection & Pacing

Fast/action songs at the beginning while flames are high.
Medium-tempo songs in the middle as the fire settles.
Slow/reflective songs for closing as the fire burns low.
Rounds & repeats: Great with older Cubs; keep instructions simple and model the motions.

Stories: quick tips

Keep it short: 3–4 minutes is ideal.
Be heard: Face the audience; project to the back row.
Choose wisely: Favor humorous, historic, or inspirational tales over scary stories for Cubs.
Keep it clean: Positive, age-appropriate language and themes.

Sample 45–60 minute campfire plan

Opening: Welcome, simple cheer, first fast song.
Middle: Alternating skits/run-ons, medium-tempo songs, a short story.
Recognition (optional): Quick thank-yous or simple awards.
Cubmaster’s Minute: Quiet reflection on a point of the Scout Law or duty to God.
Closing: Slow song, moment of silence, retire the colors.

Uniform note: Many packs use the Field Uniform (sometimes called “Class A”) for the evening flags and closing; activity T-shirts are great for the earlier program blocks.

Extra tips

• No booing; use positive cheers and quiet signs to settle the group.

• Accessibility: Offer seated roles and visual cues; keep paths clear near the ring.

• Practice changes everything: A 10-minute rehearsal for song leaders and skit teams makes the biggest difference.

• “Shaggy-dog” endings: Use sparingly and keep them short. What’s a shaggy-dog story? See dictionary.com.

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