The Badge Archive

Teen Overnight Activities

Not every overnight needs a rigid schedule or a badge checklist. In fact, for many middle and high school scouts, the best campouts are the ones that feel a little more relaxed, a little less like school, and still a whole lot of fun.

We’ve gathered a list of favorite activities from troop leaders around the country that are perfect for Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors who love crafts, light adventure, low-pressure bonding, and a little creativity.

Whether you’re looking to fill in gaps around meal prep and fire building, or just want a menu of simple, low-prep options to suit your scouts’ personalities, there’s something here for every troop.

🎨 Creative Craft Options

  • Friendship Bracelets & Lanyards – Tried and true. Set them loose with embroidery thread, paracord, or gimp.
  • Beads & Jewelry – Animal beads, alphabet bracelets, or tiny charm crafts eat up hours in the best way.
  • Henna Tattoos or Temporary Tattoos – Give it a spa day vibe.
  • Soap Carving or Spoon Whittling – Great intro to knife skills (with supervision, of course).
  • Air Dry Clay or Painted Coasters – Easy to manage, with options for take-home gifts or troop swaps.
  • Rock Painting with Paint Markers – Quiet, creative, and camp-friendly.
  • Acorn Necklaces or Painted Flower Pots – Nature meets art.
  • Crafting for a Cause – Make bookmarks for a library or fleece pet toys to donate to a shelter (check local needs first!).

🔥 Outdoor & Survival Fun

  • Make Fire Starters – Egg cartons, dryer lint, melted wax—use them on-site or prep for home!
  • Survival Bracelets – Create paracord bracelets and learn what they’re used for.
  • Decorate or Whittle Walking Sticks – Especially great for beginning hikers.
  • Knot-Tying Challenges – Teach knots, then test them with games or timed races.
  • Build First Aid Kits – Include personal touches or teach how to use each item.

🍴 Cooking Contests & Camp Challenges

  • Dutch Oven or Box Oven Bake-Offs – Divide the troop and challenge them to make a dessert or meal with a specific method.
  • DIY Applesauce or Trail Treats – Perfect for badge crossover like New Cuisines or Simple Meals.
  • Sushi Making or Mocktail Mix-Off – Simple, prep-ahead options that feel fancy and fun.
  • T-Shirt Upcycle – Turn old shirts into bags or headbands, bonus if it doubles as a service project.

🌙 Evening Adventures & Games

  • Night Hikes or Stargazing – Add trail sign discovery or light conservation discussions.
  • Trail Maintenance or Leave No Trace Bingo – Combine service and outdoor ethics.
  • Scavenger Hunts – Make it themed: wild plants, animal prints, or camp trivia.
  • Mad Lib Skits – Fill out then act them out—guaranteed laughter.
  • Group Games – Bring cards for “Spoons,” set up board game corners, or let girls teach their favorite social games.

🌀 Just for Fun Extras

  • Spa Hour – Think face masks, lotion-making, or nail polish swaps.
  • Yoga or Stretch Sessions – Great for morning wake-ups or wind-downs.
  • Special Agent or Clue Game Night – Secret ink, fingerprinting, or homemade escape room puzzles.
  • Night Owl, Babysitting, or Outdoor Art Badge Activities – Mix fun with progress—especially helpful if your troop meets less often.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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Tia Kennard