GET READY FOR ADVENTURE

JOIN TROOP 188

Join Scouts BSA Troop 188 in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles for unforgettable outdoor adventures, high-adventure treks, real leadership roles, and bonds that last forever.

From summiting peaks to earning merit badges and the prestigious Eagle Scout rank, every outing builds confidence, skills, and fun with great friends.

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What We Do

Experience epic outdoor adventures and unforgettable camping trips that take you deep into nature.

EPIC OUTDOOR ADVENTURES & CAMPING

Progress at your own pace to earn ranks, merit badges, and the Eagle Scout rank that opens doors for life.

EARN RANKS, MERIT BADGES & EAGLE SCOUT

Develop strong leadership skills while forging lifelong friendships with a supportive patrol and troop mates.

BUILD LEADERSHIP & LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS

Give back to your community while tackling high-adventure challenges that create incredible memories.

COMMUNITY SERVICE & HIGH-ADVENTURE TRIPS
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From the Trail to the Summit: Recent Highlights

Desert Mountain Hike
Sedona, AZ

Archery Competition
Verdugo Hills Council Camporee

Five Mile Hike
Griffith Park

Service Project: Invasive Plant Removal
Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve

“A favorite memory is going through the really thin canyon in the desert with the troop on a hike. Anza Borrego Slot Canyon.”

— Isaac N.P., Second Class Scout

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"Scouts has been a great mix of structure and freedom. My son gets to practice real independence with support close by. It’s helped him learn to set goals, break them down, and keep working until he reaches them. The troop feels like a real community and the friendships make it something he actually wants to show up for."

Scott G., Parent

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Let’s Get In Touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.

Contact Troop 188

  • Youth can join Scouts BSA if they are at least 11 years old (or 10 and have earned Arrow of Light), and not yet 18. We welcome new Scouts year-round—perfect for those transitioning from Cub Scouts or just starting out! If your child is too young, contact us through the form and we will connect you with a Cub Scout Pack.

  • We meet weekly in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles Monday’s 7:00–8:30 PM. Check our calendar for any changes or special events.

  • We aim for at least one outing per month, including campouts, hikes, service projects, and high-adventure trips. Our active calendar keeps things exciting and helps Scouts advance quickly.

  • We're a welcoming, youth-led troop in Eagle Rock with a focus on epic adventures, strong advancement (many Eagles!), leadership growth, and community service—all in a safe, fun environment close to home.

  • Parents are welcome to support as registered volunteers (background check and training required), but troop meetings and activities are youth-focused. We value parent help with transportation, events, or committee roles—it's flexible!

  • Advancement happens at the Scout's pace through troop activities, merit badge counselors, and outings. We provide guidance, but youth lead planning to build real skills and confidence.

  • Scouts BSA is open to both boys and girls, but we currently do not have a girls troop in our unit. If a girl (or family) is interested in joining Scouts BSA, founding a new girls Troop 188, or getting a referral to a nearby girls troop, please contact us through the form below—we’d be happy to help guide you!

  • Just wear comfortable clothes and bring enthusiasm! We'll provide a uniform info sheet, buddy system overview, and a warm welcome—no prior experience needed.

  • Fill out our quick interest form here.

  • Initial registration is through Scouting America and costs $85 annually. Troop dues are $60 per year, which help cover outings, badges, and activities.

    Summer camp and certain special activities are paid for separately when they occur, but we never want cost to be a hindrance. We actively help families find sponsors, and summer camps offer camperships (financial aid) that Scouts can apply for—contact us to discuss options!

  • Scouts BSA is the current official name for the program (formerly known as Boy Scouts of America), updated in 2019 to reflect that it's now open to both boys and girls. It's the same great Scouting experience—ranks like Eagle Scout, merit badges, outdoor adventures, and leadership development—with the same values and traditions your parents or grandparents might remember. We’re still “Boy Scouts” in spirit for our boys’ troop, just with the modern, inclusive name!

  • No, not at all! Troop 188 welcomes Scouts and families from anywhere in the Los Angeles area and beyond. We’re based in the Eagle Rock neighborhood for our meetings, but many of our Scouts come from nearby communities. If you’re excited about our program, you’re welcome tocome check us out!