Ages 11 – 17

Scouts BSA Troop 4018

Real adventure, led by the Scouts themselves. Troop 4018 plans its own outings, elects its own youth leaders, and travels everywhere from local state forests to summer camp on a council reservation.

What we're about

A youth-led troop, supported by adult mentors.

Scouts BSA is built on a simple idea: youth grow fastest when they're the ones doing the leading. In Troop 4018, the senior patrol leader and patrol leaders plan the calendar, run the meetings, and make the call on the trail. Adults stand behind them — coaching, supervising, and keeping things safe.

The result is a program where 11-year-olds learn to cook over a fire, 13-year-olds teach knots to younger Scouts, and 16-year-olds run weekend campouts. Along the way, Scouts work through ranks toward the most recognized achievement in American youth: Eagle Scout.

A teepee-style log fire crackles in front of platform tents at summer camp.
The Trail

Six ranks. One Eagle.

Every Scout moves through the same ranks at their own pace. Each one stacks new outdoor skills, leadership, and service onto the last.

Scout

The joining rank. Learn the Scout Oath, Law, and basic skills.

Tenderfoot

First nights under canvas, knots, first aid, and fitness.

Second Class

Map & compass, swimming, and deeper outdoor skills.

First Class

Self-reliant in the outdoors. Cook, navigate, lead a patrol.

Star & Life

Service hours, merit badges, and positions of responsibility.

Eagle Scout

21 merit badges, a service project of your own design, and a lifelong distinction.

What a year looks like

Twelve months. Many adventures.

Monthly Campouts

Weekend trips to state forests, council camps, and historic sites across upstate New York.

Summer Camp

A full week at a Twin Rivers Council reservation — merit badges, lake activities, and patrol cooking.

Camporees

Spring and fall events that bring dozens of troops together for skill competitions and games.

Service Projects

Volunteer work that strengthens our community — from trail maintenance to flag retirements.

Merit Badges

Over 130 subjects, from Backpacking and Wilderness Survival to Robotics and Citizenship.

High Adventure

Older Scouts can pursue trips like backpacking, canoeing, and Scouting America's national high-adventure bases.

Register the easy way

Join Scouts BSA Troop 4018.

Whether you're crossing over from Cub Scouts or joining for the first time at 11 or older, the path begins on Scouting America's BeAScout portal. A leader from the troop will be in touch shortly after you reach out.