Summer Cadet Connections: 12 Fun & Meaningful Ideas

Summer is here – a season filled with sunshine, adventure, and a break from the usual routine. It’s also the perfect opportunity for Cadet clubs to connect, grow, and have fun in ways that reinforce Christian character and leadership.

If you’re a counselor wondering how to engage your Cadets during the summer months, here are 12 creative, Christ-centered ideas that can turn a regular day into a memory-making experience.

1. Host a Backyard Campout

Not ready for a full-blown campout in the wilderness? Pitch tents, build a campfire (if permitted), cook over the flames, and share devotions under the stars in your backyard. It’s a great way to introduce outdoor skills and strengthen bonds. Want to get serious about camping? See item #8, below.

2. Plan a Hike with a Purpose

Find a local trail and go for a hike, but add a twist: bring along Scripture cards to reflect on during breaks, or organize a trail cleanup as a service project.

3. Serve Together

Volunteer at a local food pantry, clean up a park, or help an elderly church member with yard work. Serving others builds humility and gives boys a chance to put their faith into action.

4. Merit Badge Days

Choose one or two merit badges and host a focused activity day – woodworking, fishing, knot-tying, or first aid are great summer options.

5. Water Carnival

Think water balloon toss, sponge relays, or a mini boat-building challenge. Add in a devotional about “living water” from John 4 to tie in the gospel message. For more ideas, see our “Water Carnival” Counselor Aid Booklet. (United States | Canada)

6. Visit a National Park or Nature Center

If there’s a national park or nature preserve nearby, plan a day trip. Many offer guided tours or group activities that tie in well with Cadet landmarks.

7. Bike and Bible Ride

Organize a group bike ride with scheduled stops for snacks and Scripture readings. End with a picnic and a group prayer.

8. Camporee Certification Campout

If your Cadets are heading to the 2026 International Camporee at Kamp Longview, it’s time to start getting them prepped. See if/when your council is hosting a Camporee Certification campout.

9. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Create a checklist of natural items to find in a local park – leaves, bugs, feathers, etc. – and challenge your Cadets to discover God’s creation in detail.

10. Backyard Movie Night

Set up a projector and show a wholesome movie with a redemptive message. Encourage discussion afterward – What did they learn? How did it reflect (or contradict) a Biblical worldview?

11. Build a Service Project

Construct birdhouses, build a bench, or make blessing bags for the homeless. Use your hands to serve – and teach boys that work is worship.

12. Invite the Dads

Plan a father-son BBQ or outdoor game night. Building relationships between fathers and sons strengthens the entire Cadet experience. For more ideas, see our “Father Involvement in Cadeting” Counselor Aid Booklet. (United States | Canada)

Final Thought

Summer isn’t a break from growth – it’s a new season of opportunity. As a counselor, you have the chance to make a real impact outside the traditional club setting. So gather your Cadets, head outside, and keep pointing them to Christ through fun, hands-on adventures.