Scouting Costs

When compared to the cost of sports and many other activities, there is no doubt that Scouting delivers great value to its members!  Costs include BSA membership fees, uniform costs, and nominal activity fees that may be charged locally. Of course, these costs may be offset by unit fundraising and other available scholarship funds. Please contact your local unit leadership for details. 

MEMBERSHIP

The national annual youth fee and the Great Rivers Council fee combined is $145** .  For only $15 for the year,  Scouts may subscribe to Scout Life magazine. There may be additional local Unit and activity fees and/or dues.*

The national annual adult fee and the Great Rivers Council fee combined is $101** .

*Price subject to change / **Effective May 1, 2024

UNIFORM

The uniform is a method of delivering the Scouting program.  It shows that you are a member of a team.  Each grade has a specific uniform for their program.
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HANDBOOK

In the Scouting program handbooks are about $24. Handbooks have all the requirements for each rank. Handbooks also serve as a Scout’s record of completing the requirements.

DUES

To cover the costs of awards and recognition, crafts, and activities and program events most local units have dues. Scout Units may offer opportunities to conduct fundraisers to offset these costs such as the council Popcorn Sale.  Dues are established by the families in the Unit through the committee.
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ACTIVITIES

Additional activities such as overnight camp outs, field trips, day camps and summer camps have additional costs associated with them.  These costs differ based on several factors.  Detailed information can be provided by the local Unit leadership.