Pack 657 campfire planning guide

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Cub Pack 657 O’Fallon, MO
CAMPFIRE PLANNING GUIDE
VERSION 1.0
Published/Last Modified By
Doug Less

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Contents
Campfire Planning Guide...................................................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................................... 1
The Planning Process........................................................................................................................................................ 2
The Campfire Program Planner Worksheet ............................................................................................................ 2
The Campfire Program Planner......................................................................................................................................... 3
General Campfire Guidelines ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Campfire Etiquette............................................................................................................................................................. 4
After the Main Event.......................................................................................................................................................... 5
“Magic” Campfire Starts........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Fire Lay Construction........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Mechanical Fire Starts ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Electrical Fire Starts .......................................................................................................................................................... 8
Chemical Fire Starts........................................................................................................................................................... 9
“Magic” Campfire Start Stories....................................................................................................................................11
Campfire Opening Ideas......................................................................................................................................................13
Campfire Skit Ideas...............................................................................................................................................................18
Campfire Song Ideas.............................................................................................................................................................28
Campfire Story Ideas............................................................................................................................................................38
Campfire Closing Ideas........................................................................................................................................................48
Example Campfire Program – Family Campout October 12, 2013...................................................................54

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Campfire Planning Guide
Introduction
The Cub Pack 657 Campfire Planning Guide is a tool for planning a successful campfire program at
Family Camps, Summer Camps, and more. It provides ideas for campfire openings, skits, riddles,
songs, stories, and closings that can be used in planning. In addition, a complete example plan has
been included that was actually used to conduct a successful campfire at the Fall 2013 Family Camp.
A successful campfire program should have a definite, planned structure. It should happen similarly
to how a fire burns - starting small, building to a bright excitement, and then tapering off to glowing
embers. The best campfires are well planned, yet look spontaneous.
There are typically three parts to a typical campfire. They are:
 Part 1: Opening - The opening includes forming the audience for viewing, important
introductions, the fire lighting, and a short, upbeat opening act that sets the mood and
guidelines for the fire and welcomes people to the magic of the experience
 Part 2: Campfire Program -The Campfire Program is the main portion containing skits songs,
stories, stunts, games, run-ons, etc.
 Part 3: Closing - The closing of the camp fire is even more important than the opening. A
solemn, quiet, impressive closing is an excellent preparation for a quiet, orderly end of the
program.

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The Planning Process
Ideally, the Den and Adult Leader(s) responsible for an upcoming Campfire Program are assigned
(or volunteer) at the monthly Pack Committee Meeting preceding the event date of the campout.
The Committee helps brainstorm ideas in alignment with any themes that may be being explored at
the upcoming campout. A Master of Ceremonies is appointed/volunteers and all Adult Leaders that
will be in attendance agree to help in ensuring a successful campfire.
1. The Campfire Program Planner responsible for a specific campfire fills out the Campfire
Program Planner worksheet.
2. In collaboration with the Adult Leaders and assigned Den Leaders, the Planning Worksheet
is reviewed (in advance) so that all are aware what skit, song, riddle, or act each
Den/Rank/Family will perform. Adult Leaders are responsible for practicing their act prior
to the actual campfire program.
3. It is important to get collective approval of all acts prior to the campout. Any Leader has the
right to edit or veto acts, within reason of course. No inappropriate language, ethnic or
vulgar humor, bullying or hazing, or anything that would constitute exploitation of a scout.
The Campfire Program Planner Worksheet
How to use the campfire program planner sheet on the next page: Be sure that every feature of this
campfire program upholds Cub Scouting's highest traditions.
1. At a Cub Scout Committee meeting (or separate campfire planning meeting), fill in the top of
the "Campfire Program Planner" sheet.
2. On the "Campfire Program Planner" list all Dens and individuals who will participate in the
program.
3. From each Leader get and write down the name, description, and type of song, skit or story
they have planned.
4. The designated Campfire Planner (leader) organizes songs, stunts, and stories in a good
sequence, considering timing, variety, smoothness, and showmanship.
5. The Campfire Planner (Leader) makes out the campfire program sheet.
6. Copies of the program are given to all participants, especially the Master of Ceremonies.

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The Campfire Program Planner
Place ___________________________ Leaders notified ________________ Fire to be built by ________________
Date/Time _______________________ Master of Ceremonies___________ Fire to be put out by _____________
Cub Pack Committee approval: Y/N
______________________________ Cleanup by _____________________
Area to be set up by ____________ _______________________________
Spot Title of Skit, Song, or Story By _____________________ Time
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General Campfire Guidelines
The Master of Ceremonies should follow several common-sense rules:
 Ensure they have a completed version of the Campfire Program Planner worksheet.
 Preview new or unfamiliar skits
 Be respectful and affirming of everyone.
 Remind participants to bring whatever props they need.
 Remind everyone to speak loudly, so all can hear.
Some general guidelines for planning the campfire program are:
 Keep the program short 45 minutes being about right for Cub Scouts
 Skits are never longer than 3 minutes and are ideally somewhere around 90 seconds.
 Get skits in place quickly; otherwise all the momentum gained in the evening is disrupted.
 Avoid ad-hoc or unplanned skits because they usually aren't funny, are too long, don't make
any sense, not to mention the Cub Scouts often forget what they're supposed to say and do.
 Rehearse the skit beforehand. It will increase the Cub Scouts confidence and can help to
avoid whispering, fumbling, amnesia, and all sorts of problems.
 Campfire Program Material must pass Appropriateness Test
o Consistent with the Scout Law being friendly, courteous, and kind.
o Songs, Stunts, and Skits should not embarrass or demean any person or group.
o Gray areas to stay away from:
 Underwear
 Inside jokes
 Cross-gender impersonation
 Suggestions of alcohol, tobacco, drugs
 Water or anything that would get the audience wet or messy
 Watch out for using or modifying skits that touch on sensitive topics
 Skits that are based on ethnic or handicapped targets are not acceptable
Campfire Etiquette
The Campfire Master of Ceremonies makes sure Cub Scouts, siblings, and family members in
attendance follow proper campfire etiquette including the following:
 Crowd control is easier if you insist on silence as the group enters the campfire ring.
 Make sure there is sufficient light so they can find their seats.
 Prohibit use of flashlights during the campfire.
 No Booing.
 No Talking - unless you're involved in an activity, talking spoils the mood and detracts from
whatever is going on.
 The campfire ring is sacred and always quiet before and after the fire.

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 If wood needs to be added to the fire during the campfire, only the Keeper of the Flame may
do it.
 Discipline is important.
o Squelch any horseplay immediately.
o Encourage enthusiasm, but maintain control.
o Get everyone involved in songs or stunts.
 Recognition should be a part of every Cub Scout campfire program. Let the audience
clap/cheer each group of performers.
 Quiet as the embers die. Ask everyone to leave the campfire ring quietly.
The Master of Ceremonies is the leader of the campfire program and needs to maintain control.
Below are some guidelines:
 Be tough but tactful when someone may be interrupting the campfire.
 Address problems immediately – Cub Scouts can get out of hand easily & quickly.
 When friendly requests fail:
o Ask the Adults/Parents for assistance, if that fails
o Ask Adult Leaders for assistance, if that fails
o Ask the Cub Master for assistance
After the Main Event
Cleaning up a campfire's debris so that the area may retain a natural appearance requires just as
much effort as building a fire.
 Make sure the fire is "out cold" before disposing of it.
o A good test is if the coals feel cool when you place your hand on them.
 Scatter the cold ashes, replace the soil, and return the site to its natural condition.
 You may bury the coals from your fire, sometimes it is easier to remove them from the area.
 The coals may be placed in a natural depression in the ground, and covered with dirt, or
they may be spread where no one will see them.
 Finally, remember to replace the soil over the original campfire site.
 If there is an opportunity get the leaders together immediately after and perform a
reflection on what went well during the event.

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“Magic” Campfire Starts
A Word of Caution – Unless you are very comfortable with the ideas presented here, the results
may not always conform to your expectations – remember Murphy’s Law! However, with a little
forethought, care, and caution you can maximize the opportunity for success and minimize the
chance for failure.
Don’t interpret the following as rules, they are merely clarifying the common sense approach that
most of us would use around fire and Cub Scouts anyways…
1. These “magic” fire lighting ideas are not games and should not be approached as if they are.
2. I know this is contradictory, but only people in full control of their mental faculties should
try these. The contradiction being that you have to be slightly off balance to be an Adult
Scouter anyways 
3. Exercise extreme caution when dealing with inflammatory material. Do not experiment. No
open flames. Avoid large quantities – MORE is NOT better!
4. Practice the “magic” fire start several times before you actually use it in front of an audience.
And make sure to have the materials to conduct several practice runs.
5. Check reaction times between activation and ignition as this will help you plan the story
that you will use in conjunction with the “magic” fire start. Become familiar with the actions
and noises that typically accompany each type of fire start.
6. Always have a “Plan B” ready if “Plan A” fails – and it will sooner or later.
Fire Lay Construction
There are a number of different ways to build your fire in preparation for the “magic” fire start.
Where pre-positioning of the fire-start mechanism is involved, a Pyramid fire lay
is the preferred style. By building the various layers with dry kindling between
the wood pieces, you can easily conceal your fire start material. The natural
structure of this style of fire also leaves a “chamber” in the center that is just what
you need to place your fire start mechanism in, so that any material that has to be
added to cause ignition can drop on to the mechanism.
Should your fire start involve material being flown in (such as for the 'Flaming
Arrow' fire) - then the Tepee style fire lay might be the choice. Where the 'arrow'
enters the fire lay, an opening can be left in the fire material which can be well
packed with dry kindling and other quick combustibles.
If your personal favorite is the Log Cabin style, this can also be used quite nicely
with some of these magic fire start ideas. This particular style is well suited to
electrical based fire starts where the ignition mechanism can be placed in the
middle of the fire lay and yet still be hidden by kindling.
One item that is strongly discourage from being included in any fire lay - regardless of the weather
conditions - is liquid fuel (white gas; naphtha; charcoal starter fuel, etc.) as the results can be

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somewhat unpredictable if used with some of the ideas presented here. Any scouter who needs this
to get a fire going is probably not suited to trying Magic Fire Start Ideas (see the Word of Caution
items above).
Mechanical Fire Starts
These magic campfire starts may help you add that touch of mystique to a potentially memorable
occasion.
1. Take a 2 x 4 piece of wood, about 3 - 4 inches long. In the middle of this drill one 3/8" hole
all the way through. This should be large enough to put a large nail or spike through and
secure the wood to the ground. Still with this same piece of wood, drill as many 1/8"
diameter holes in it that you can, but not all the way through the wood. A drill guide will
help you to get all these holes the same depth. The depth will be determined by the length of
the blue tip wood matches that you should then place in these holes, leaving only the match
heads slightly above the wood surface.
a. Take a second piece of 2 x 4 wood and glue some sandpaper to one side. Also secure
a small "eye" screw to one end. Hold the two blocks of wood together with rubber
bands (after staking the first piece of wood in the middle of your fire lay), and
surround with plenty of dry kindling.
b. Attach a wire to the "eye" screw and, at the appropriate moment, pull. The friction of
the sandpaper against the match heads will cause them to ignite, thereby setting the
kindling on fire.
2. The "Flaming Arrow" is a traditional favorite. Drive a stake a little beyond the heart of the
fire lay, as it is being laid. From this stake run a length of nylon fishing line up to a nearby
high point and tie securely so that the line is very taut. The angle should be sufficient to
ensure a smooth and fairly rapid decent of the 'arrow' otherwise you run the risk of the
flame burning through the fishing line before the arrow reaches the fire.
a. The arrow is attached to the line through two spools (so make sure you thread the
spools onto the line before you tie it off!)
b. To the head of the arrow secure a bundle of dry flammable material.
c. At the appropriate time during the introductory story, an assistant lights the arrow
and releases it to slide down to set the fire alight.
d. One of the benefits of using fishing line for the line to the fire, is that once the fire is
alight the fishing line will burn through and the assistant can then retrieve the line
without those attending the campfire being aware of it. If you find that the fishing
line does not work for you, use wire instead, but tie the wire to fishing line where it
passes through the fire lay. This piece will burn away when he fire is lit, allowing
you to retrieve the length of wire.

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3. Variations on the above method include tying the flammable material directly around a
weighted spool and sending that down the line to create a 'fire-ball' effect. Firework
sparklers being attached to the arrow can also give quite a spectacular impression.
4. One idea included in several scouter resource books is to have a candle pre-lit in the fire lay,
but covered by a #10 Can. The candle is secured to a wooden base with a line attached to it.
At the appropriate moment, pull the candle out from the can and the kindling will catch fire.
Electrical Fire Starts
When setting up electrical fire starts, the weight of the wire used to generate heat will depend on
the size of the battery you intend to use and the distance between the battery and the ignition
device. Practice beforehand will enable you to properly rig your fire start, but, as a guide, use fine
wire for a 6 or 9 volt battery source. If your power source is a 12 volt car battery a heavier wire will
be required.
1. Steel Wool and "D" cell batteries are frequently used in survival techniques as an emergency
method of starting a fire. Based on this principal, one camp fire start idea is to use steel wool
in the fire lay (surrounded by small dry kindling) remotely attached to a car battery. The
battery could be disguised by hiding in a box that would double as a seat for the Master of
Ceremonies, with a switch on the side of the box to complete the electrical circuit and start
off your fire.
2. A variation on the above involves a little more creativity with the electrical connections.
From the disguised car battery/campfire seat, you'll need 3 electrical circuits and switches.
Switch #1 connects to a yellow taillight secured in the fire and hidden under kindling.
Switch #2 is hooked up to a two more light bulbs. Switch #3 hooks up to steel wool, as
detailed in the previous method.
a. As part of your campfire opening, get everyone to assist by blowing towards the fire.
As they do so, throw switch #1 and everyone should see a yellow glow coming
through the fire. Turn off the switch after a second or two.
b. “Obviously not everyone was helping or blowing hard enough”, so get them to blow
again. Throw switch #2 and a stronger light will be seen in the fire. Turn the switch
off after maybe five seconds.
c. One last time! Obviously the Cub Scouts aren’t trying hard enough. As everyone
blows hard for the last time, trigger the third switch to set the fire alight.
d. Remember to pull the lights attached to Switches #1 & #2 out of the fire lay before
you set the fire going, unless you want to compete with exploding light bulbs!

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3. Take a block of scrap 2" x 4" with a saw cut through the center line. Two nails are driven in
at either end of the block on opposite sides of the saw cut. These nails will provide
'terminals' to hook up to the power source. Insert an uncovered paper match book into the
saw cut, and thread a very fine piece of wire through the match heads, connect the wire to
the 'terminals'. Attach the wires from your power source also to the 'terminals' after
connecting them through some switching mechanism. When a current is passed through the
wire, heat will be generated which will ignite the matches and then set off your campfire
kindling.
4. Take a bunch of friction type matches and secure with a rubber band. The bigger the bunch,
the more spectacular will be the fire start. Then take a metal spring from a spring-loaded
pen and stretch this spring to be slightly larger than the diameter of your bundle of matches.
Lay the spring through the matches, so that it is touching the match heads. Place this bundle
on kindling in your fire lay.
a. Remotely attach a battery to the ends of the spring wire, through a switching
mechanism. At the correct time, throw the switch and the spring will generate
electrical heat which will ignite the matches.
5. This next idea builds on the previous one, but requires a little more creative electrical and
carpentry skills. Once you've set it up, however, it could be either your primary fire start
method or a back-up method if "Plan A" fails.
a. Take a piece of deadwood about 5-6 feet in length and at least 1 1/2 inches in
diameter at the base. Carefully drill a hole vertically into the base, of a sufficient
depth/breadth to hold your battery power source.
b. Run wires (covered where exposure is not necessary) from the battery up the
outside of the staff, with one of the wires going through a simple switch set at about
the 4 foot mark. The ends of the wires should be stripped and terminate about 8-10
inches below the top end of the staff.
c. Wrap several layers of dry flammable material around the first 8-10 inches from the
top of the staff, secure with wire.
d. Just below the flammable material, tape an open book of matches and run a fine
wire, from the wires attached to the battery/switch, through the match heads.
e. Hold the staff away from your body - yeah, really this is a good idea! - And trigger
the switch to light the match heads which will then catch the flammable material.
Your flaming torch can then light the campfire.
f. Since you always keep a bucket of water near your fire, extinguish the torch after
use and it'll be able to be used again.
Chemical Fire Starts
Chemical fire starts are particularly clever, however they require a great deal of practice!

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1. In the fire lay, place a pre-prepared piece of 2 x 4 wood, with four 6 inch nails driven
partially into it. Between the nails, on the wood, place a small aluminum tart cup with at
least two tablespoons of Potassium Permanganate (available from most pharmacies) in it.
a. Supported on the heads of the 4 nails place a second aluminum cup that has had
three or four small holes punched in the base. Tilt this cup to one side by placing a
twig across two of the nails and then balance the cup so it is supported. In this cup
place a quantity of Glycerin (also available from Pharmacies) - but not enough so
that it trickles through the holes.
b. The twig should have a length of fishing line tied to it, with the line stretching away
from the fire lay.
c. By pulling on the fishing line and removing the supporting twig, the cup containing
Glycerin will drop to rest horizontally and the glycerin will spread out over the cup's
base. A couple of drops will then fall through the pre-punched holes and onto the
Potassium Permanganate.
d. After a short pause the glycerin will react with the Potassium Permanganate and
create a flame which will need to catch your kindling thereby setting the fire lay
ablaze.
2. Take a model rocket igniter (available at most hobby shops) and pass the igniter through
the inside of a paper baggy leaving two little wires sticking out. Then carefully remove the
contents of a "Colored Flower Bloom" or "Giant Fountain" firework (use only one) and place
into the paper baggy.
a. Attach the clips from a model rocket firing device to the two wires coming out of the
baggy.
b. Prepare the mechanism by pulling the safety pin. Then, when you're ready, press the
firing button and POOF!, another magic fire start.
3. Crush 1 teaspoon of iodine crystals to a very fine powder, then mix with 2 teaspoons of
powdered aluminum. IT IS CRITICAL THAT THIS MIXTURE REMAINS ABSOLUTELY DRY.
a. Place this mixture in the fire lay on a piece of plywood, forming a volcano shaped
mound. When the participants are gathered around the campfire, ask if anyone has a
canteen of water in case the fire gets 'out of hand' (you may want to set this up
beforehand).
b. Pat your pockets as if looking for a match, but finding none, ask to borrow some
water. Sprinkle it on the fire lay (ensure a few drops hit the iodine/aluminum
mixture) and you will be greeted by billowing purple smoke, followed by deep red
flames.
c. Someone is bound to ask, "OK. So how do you put it out?" Simply tell them you'll
throw matches on it!
d. Note: The powdered iodine "evaporates" very quickly. As a result this mixture must
be used within about 10 minutes of preparation.

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4. A teaspoon of Pine Sol or Pine Oil is placed in a shallow container within the fire lay. There
is a story that goes along with this magic fire start based on the ashes from a previous
campfire.
a. The "Ashes" are a half a cup of HTH Granulated chlorine. When the Pine solvent and
chlorine are combined, they produce a large quantity of white smoke, followed by
flames. This is a relatively slow reaction, so open the campfire with the following
story:
i. "As we gather here tonight, for our formal campfire, I think back to the
closing campfire from last year. It was such a great fire, and the feelings of
love and friendship so strong.”
ii. “In order to try and rekindle those feeling for our fire tonight, I would like to
add some of the ashes from last year’s fire.”
iii. “Now, before I light the fire tonight, I would like you all to look at this pile of
wood, and think about your own feelings about last year's fire, and what
made it special for you."
“Magic” Campfire Start Stories
Imagine the scene at your next campfire. Everyone has walked into the campfire ring, your opening
is inspirational but everyone is wondering why the fire isn't lit yet. You then lead off with a short
story to fit the circumstances and then ask for everyone's help in calling on the appropriate spirits
to light the ceremonial fire. A short pause, then.....FLASH!.....the campfire is roaring away and yet no-
one was anywhere near the fire to light it!
In any event, magic fire starts deserve to be supported with a story. In determining the story to use
remember that it should in some way 'explain' the magic involved; it could get participants active in
the fire start itself; and it will enable you to set up particular timing prompts if the fire start needs
assistance from others.
These ideas should give you a bit of a start in developing your own story's, and don't be afraid to
tailor the fire start to the camp theme. The theme could be hiking, family circus, UFO's; whatever. A
little creativity will enable you to come up with a really great story to introduce the fire.
Peter the Elf
"While getting the wood ready for the fore tonight, I came across a small wood- elf trapped in the
underbrush. Since a Cub Scout is always kind, considerate and helpful, I helped free him. In return
he promised to help me if I ever needed it. All I have to do is call."
"Since this is the first time I've ever met a wood-elf, I've no idea if he will keep his promise to me.
Maybe we should see if he will help us to light this fire?"

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Shout out - "Peter the Elf, will you light this fire for me?" - No response. Call a second time, still
nothing happens.
"Maybe he can't hear my voice. Let's all shout - Peter the Elf, will you light this fire for me?”
Time the fire start so that the fire lay ignites after the last shout.
The Indian Pow-Wow
"Some of you may know that, not very far from here is land considered sacred by the Indians who
used to live in this area. No one can remember what this land was used for, but the scholars think it
was where the tribe used to get together for special councils and pow-wows. It's funny, but there's
no historical evidence to support this and it’s all based on local legend."
"Some of you may have noticed the old farm near the camp site entrance. Old Charlie lives there and
he's become quite an authority on local Indian legends."
"One of the story's he tells is of how the Indians used to signal that there was a pow-wow about to
start. Once all the council members were around the fire ring, they would signal that they were all
present by stamping their feet on the ground. Like this...."
Get everyone to join in.
"At that signal the Council Chief would send a fire arrow into the air to signal the start of the pow-
wow."
This is where the Flaming Arrow fire start would come into play.

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Campfire Opening Ideas
The following section contains some possible Campfire Openings that can be used in the program.
Brother Scouts
Brother Scouts, in the light of the campfire,
Let us come together with thankful hearts;
And let our ideals be ever before us like a blazing torch
Lighting a warm and steady path,
The light not dimming
And the peace not slackening.
The campfire is open.
The Wilderness is Home
The fire is lit, come lift your voice;
Let song and skit fill the hours;
The fire is lit, so let's rejoice,
Our hearts are full, the night is ours.
Cold nights weighs down the forest bough,
Strange shapes go flitting through the gloom;
But see... a spark, a flame and now
The Wilderness is home.
Peace be to all
Behold the fire my fellow scouts,
May its flames purify your hearts,
Let no unfriendly thoughts be harbored,
Let no harsh words be spoken
Keep the spirit of the campfire in your hearts forever,
Peace be to all.

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North, South, East, and West
Logs burn, flames rise,
Hearts glow, troubles die,
Each for all and all for each,
Happiness within our reach,
Joined together by the good,
Of world-wide Scouting brotherhood.
Flames leaping - fire bright,
We are all brothers here tonight.
Scent of smoke in the evening,
Smell of rain in the night,
The trees, the grass, the flowers,
The campfires are our delight.
Brother Scouts, the campfire is open.
From the North,
From the South,
From the East,
From the West,
May good Scouting come to you always.
Come, come, light up the fire
The fire is lit, come lift your voice;
Let song and skit beguile the hours;
The fire is lit, so let's rejoice,
Our hearts are full, the night is ours.
Come, come, light up the fire,
Come, come, join in the ring,

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Here find dreams to inspire,
Stories to tell, songs to sing.
May the smoke of this fire carry your thoughts towards heaven,
And make your hearts strong for Scouting.
Smoke
As our campfire smoke curls upward,
May all that is evil go along with it,
And may some kind evening breeze blow it away,
Never to be seen again,
And may peace be in our hearts.
As our campfire grows and grows,
Let the smoke from its flames rise to
Carry our troubles and bad thoughts away,
Never to be seen again.
Thank you Great Spirit in heaven,
For this fire and the friendship we will share tonight.
Stronger
Behold the campfire, my young Tigers, Bears, Wolves, and Webelos,
May its flames clean our hearts.
Let no unfriendly thoughts remain,
Let no hurting words be spoken.
Keep the spirit of this campfire in your heart,
For, together, its flame makes us stronger.

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So Be
As the flames point upwards
So be our aims
As the red logs glow
So be our sympathies
As the grey ash fades
So be our errors
As the good fire warms the circle
So may our ideas warm the world
A Little Bit
A little bit of kindness to each other now and then
A little bit of blindness to the faults of other men
A little bit of happiness - A lively Wolf Cub's smile
And then as on through life we go - We'll find it's all worth while
The Beauty of Fire
CUB #1: The early caveman used fire to protect himself from wild beasts and to warm his body.
CUB #2: In ancient times the Phoenicians used fire on mountaintops of high pillars as beacons for
their ships.
CUB #3: The American Indian used fire to hollow out logs for boats to, fire pottery, and for
ceremonial purposes.
CUB #4: The pioneer used fire to forge rims for his wheels and bolts to build wagons. The silhouette
of the village smithy against his fire was a common sight in early America.
CUB #5: The cowboy in the Old West sat around the campfire with a pot of coffee and beans. Their
entertainment was the singing of ballads of the trail accompanied by guitars and harmonicas.
CUB #6: Fire today makes the wheels of industry turn. In essence, fire is putting men on the moon.
Master of Ceremonies: Fire is the universal symbol of Scout camping. The fellowship around the
campfire is one of the most lasting memories in the life of the Scout. In just a few months some of
you Cubs will become Boy Scouts. If every Scout group in the world had a campfire tonight like this
one, the glow would light the world with a new hope for mankind.

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Cub Scout Campfire
Master of Ceremonies: Welcome to the Cub Scout campfire. Akela is among us. Let us draw from
this campfire with all its vibrancy and warmth, the secrets of Cub Scouting and the spirit of
brotherhood.
CUB 1: In its light we see new chances to be helpful and to do our best.
CUB 2: From its warmth we strengthen the bonds of fellowship and learn how to get along with
others.
CUB 3: From the stones that ring the fire and keep its power in check, we learn how we can curb our
tempers and become good citizens.
CUB 4: From the smoke that rises out of the fire, we learn to lift our eyes upward and worship God.
CUB 5: The spark that started this fire reminds us that little Good Turns can lead to greater deeds.
CUB 6: Just as the fire needs wood to burn bright, so do we need the care and love of our parents to
burn brightly.
CUB 7: In it leaping flames, we see the fun of Cub Scouting and the job of life.
Campfire Lighting with the Cub Scout Spirit
Enter the Cubmaster with lit candle or torch. The audience is gathered around unlit campfire.
WEBELOS: Who are you?
CUBMASTER: I am the Spirit of Scouting.
WEBELOS: Why do you come?
CUBMASTER: To give light to those who need it.
WEBELOS: Will you give light to us?
CUBMASTER: If you are prepared to serve God and Country, to help people, to live by the Cub Scout
Promise and the Law of the Pack.
WEBELOS: We will do our best!
CUBMASTER: Then take your light from my light. (Cub kneels and lights fire.)

18
Campfire Skit Ideas
The following section contains some possible Campfire Skits that can be used in the program.
These are all appropriate and fairly easy for Cub Scouts to learn quickly.
Fortune Teller
Setup: A small tent is set up, with an old lady sitting in front of it. This can be a Cub Scout wrapped
up in a blanket, who speaks with an old lady's voice.
Master of Ceremonies: Introduces Fortune Teller as a very accurate teller of fortunes who can
predict a person's future by touching anything belonging to the person.
Master of Ceremonies: Calls up a series of Cub Scouts
Master of Ceremonies: Asks the first Scout what he has brought for the Fortune Teller?
Cub Scout 1: Scout produces a pencil.
Master of Ceremonies: Hands the pencil to the Fortune Teller and asks her to tell the future of the
owner.
Fortune Teller: Waves her hands and mumbles some words and then predicts that the owner will
become a writer.
The scene is repeated.
Cub Scout 2: A Scout produces a comb from his pocket.
Fortune Teller: Predicts that he will become a hairdresser.
Cub Scout 3: A third Scout has a dollar.
Fortune Teller: predicts that he will become a successful banker.
Master of Ceremonies: [A Scapegoat is summoned from the audience.] The Master of Ceremonies
asks what he has to show the Fortune Teller.
No matter what the Scapegoat suggests, the Master of Ceremonies says it is not good enough.
Either it has been done before, or it is too easy, or "That's no fun!", or any other reason.
Master of Ceremonies: Finally, suggest that the Scapegoat try his shoe, and makes him take it off.
The shoe is handed to the Fortune Teller
Fortune Teller: Repeats her mumbo jumbo. Announces, "You will take a long walk in the woods!"
[She throws the shoe far into the woods.]

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The Four Seasons
Setup: The Master of Ceremonies narrates, everyone else is volunteers.
Master of Ceremonies: "I need eleven volunteers for this skit."
Master of Ceremonies: "This skit is called the Four Seasons. You three are trees. You three are
leaves in trees, get up in the trees. You're poison ivy, cling to the roots of one of the trees.
Master of Ceremonies: Pick a scapegoat (An Adult Leader is best). Tell the scapegoat that “You're
tree's blood, you run through the trees” and make the scapegoat run around the trees
Master of Ceremonies: You two are birds, flit from tree to tree and sing. And you're the babbling
brook. You have to babble." "Babble babble babble babble ..."
Master of Ceremonies: "In the spring, the leaves come out on the trees. The birds flit from tree to
tree."
Master of Ceremonies: "In the summer, the leaves open up and the sun shines down on the forest.
The birds form flocks"
Master of Ceremonies: "In the fall, the leaves drop from the trees. The birds fly away south."
Master of Ceremonies: "In the winter, the brook freezes and stops babbling.
Master of Ceremonies: All seems still in the forest.
Master of Ceremonies: But beneath it all there is still life. Look! The sap is still running!"
The Highest Tree Climber in the World
Setup: A Cub Scout designated as the “Tree climber” is hidden in the woods and is able to ruffle a
bush or tree.
Master of Ceremonies: “You know, they say there's this really good tree climber trying out for the
Olympics. I wonder if he's practicing around here.”
Master of Ceremonies: Call out and see! “Hey! Tree Climber! Are you around here?”
Climber: Yep!
Master of Ceremonies: You practicing?
Climber: Yep!
Master of Ceremonies: How high are you?
Climber: Oh, not high. About 100 feet.
Master of Ceremonies: Wow! Can you go higher?

20
Climber: Yep! (Ruffles tree.) Now I'm at about 200 feet.
Master of Ceremonies: Fantastic! Can you go higher?
Master of Ceremonies: Neato! Can you go higher?
Master of Ceremonies: Great! Can you go higher?
Master of Ceremonies: Gee! I'm amazed!
Cub Scout (from audience): Excuse me, Sir, but I have a book here that says that the highest tree in
the world is only 360 feet high!
Climber: Ahhhhhh!!!!!! (Thump!)
The Short Runway
Setup: Number of Participants: 2 (If more are desired, they can be passengers, with suitable sound
effects and actions.)
Props: Seating for pilot and co-pilot, and for passengers if required. A compass.
Master of Ceremonies: This scene is on board a very low budget airline.
Pilot: Well, are we anywhere near the airport, co-pilot?
Co-Pilot: (peering out the window) I don't know... I see lights over there to the left. That's likely it.
Bring 'er around and have a look.
Pilot: (lurching plane hard to the left) Boy, I can't tell. I wish the company would buy us some
instruments.
Co-Pilot: (pulling compass from pocket) Oh, I've got my trusty compass and the sun went down
about 20 minutes ago, so we've got to be on course. (Excited) Look, see that spot down there, that
must be it.
Pilot: Okay, here we go. Give me 20 degrees flaps, I'm going in. (Puts plane into a nose dive, sound
effects.)
Pilot: This is going to be tough. Give me more flaps, cut back the engines. (Louder) More flaps, less
throttle!
Co-Pilot: (Appropriate actions and sounds, acting panicky.)

21
Pilot: QUICK, cut the engines, give me brakes. MORE BRAKES!
Both: (Sighs of relief) We’re down, we made it!
Pilot: Boy that was a short runway!
Co-Pilot: (Looking right, then left) Yep, and wide too!
Emergency Broadcast
Setup: 3 scouts and 1 Master of Ceremonies. Have three scouts standing in a side-by-side line.
Master of Ceremonies in front.
Master of Ceremonies: We interrupt this campfire for an emergency broadcast!
Scouts: Beep (keep going beep for a minute)
Master of Ceremonies: Now, that was JUST a test, had this been a real emergency you would have
heard:
Scouts: (Screaming wildly, pile on each other, arms and legs flailing, or running in circles)
Campfire Time Telling
Setup: About 4-8 Cub Scouts circle around the campfire. 1 Cub Scout hides offstage.
Master of Ceremonies: "The ancient Indians will now demonstrate how they tell time.
Indian Dancers: The Indians dance around the fire loudly. After a while they stop and pretend to
listen for a sound. They dance around the fire again and listen for a sound
Offstage Scout: Shut-up, it's 2:30 in the morning!
Pass the Pepper
Setup: Four to five Cub Scouts squatting in a line.
Cub Scout on far Right: Cub Scout on far right says to Cub Scout on his left, “Pass the pepper.”
Cub Scouts go down the line and end Cub Scout passes black pepper down.
Cub Scout on far Right: Cub Scout on right says, “Not the black pepper, I want the pepper.”
Again this goes down the line and the end Cub Scout passes the Cayenne pepper.
Cub Scout on Right: The Cub Scout on the right says, “Not the Cayenne pepper, I said I want the
pepper. “
This can go on using different types of peppers until the Cub Scout on the left end says, "WHAT
KIND OF PEPPER DOES HE WANT"

22
This goes down the line
Cub Scout on Right: "THE TOILET PAPER"
The Blanket Tossing Team
Setup: This takes about six Cub Scouts, who form a circle around an invisible blanket, with a small
invisible guy (Bruce) who sits in the middle of the invisible blanket and gets tossed.
Master of Ceremonies: "We're an Olympic blanket tossing team, and Bruce in the middle here is our
star blanket bouncer. We'll toss Bruce a bit just to warm up. One, two, three! One, two, three! One,
two, three!"
On three each time, the team lets the pretend blanket go slack, then pull it taught. They watch the
invisible Bruce go up in the air, then come down, and the gently catch him again in the blanket.
Each time they toss him higher. The team has to be in sync, and they have to watch about the same
spot -- the easiest way to do this is to have everyone just imitate the leader, who is the speaker.
Master of Ceremonies: "OK, we're all limbered up now?"
Blank Toss Team: The team murmurs in agreement. "Then let's toss Bruce a bit higher. One, two,
three!"
Bruce comes up, and the team adjusts their position a bit to catch him as he comes down.
Blank Toss Team: "One, two, three!" This wait about ten seconds, and move quite a bit to get under
him.
Move this way and that before finally catching him.
Blank Toss Team: "One, two, three!" twenty seconds this time, almost lose track of him, and adjust
the position here, there, and here again.
Master of Ceremonies: "What? What's that you say, Bruce?" pause "Audience, you are in luck! Bruce
wants to go for the world record blanket toss! Ready team?
Blank Toss Team: One! Two! Thu-reee!!!" A mighty toss! The team shifts positions, like trying to
catch a high fly ball.
Master of Ceremonies: "There he goes! He's past the trees! He's really up there!" pause, looking
hard into the sky "Do you see him? I've lost him.
Master of Ceremonies: Where'd he go?" another pause
Blank Toss Team: "Oh well." The team leaves the stage, and the program continues.
After another skit and song, and preferably in the middle of some sort of act…

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Master of Ceremonies: "Bruce! Quick team!" The blanket tossing team runs back on stage, positions
themselves this way and that, and catches Bruce.
Master of Ceremonies: "Let's have a big hand for Bruce! Yay!!!"
Sixty Second Skit
Setup: Two Cub Scouts with foam swords mock fighting. Each Cub Scout enters from either side of
the campfire circle. They begin a series of carefully choreographed movements with the foam
swords (striking each other's swords, poking at each other, etc.) all in slow motion.
Cub Scouts: each one counts "1-2-3-4-5...” etc., taking turns, until they reach 60. When they reach 60,
they both stop face the audience and announce:
Cub Scouts: "We have just wasted one minute of your time"
Energy Saver
Setup: Six Cub Scouts and one Adult den leader conducting a Den Meeting. Den meeting place,
decorated as desired. Den leader sits at a table. As skit opens, all Cub Scouts arrive together and sit
down.
Den Leader: Today, let's take turns and tell how we can help to conserve energy in our homes.
Cub Scout 1: I know a good way. My mom doesn't use her clothes dryer as much as she used to. She
uses a new solar energy device called a clothesline and hangs her laundry outside to dry in the
sunshine.
Cub Scout 2: My dad said that if we filled a plastic bottle with water and put it in the tank in the
bathroom, it would cut down on the amount of water used for flushing.
Cub Scout 3: Did you know that if you take showers you use a lot less water than if you take baths?
Mom even uses a timer, and we have learned to take 3-minute showers at our house.
Cub Scout 6: (Starts to slowly fall asleep.)
Cub Scout 4: We keep the drapes closed on summer days and keep them open for light and warmth
in the winter.
Cub Scout 5: we keep the damper in our fireplace closed whenever we aren't using it. If it's left open
in the winter, the warm air in the house escapes up the chimney and that's a waste.
Scout 6: (Is now completely asleep)
Den Leader: Johnny, do you have anything to add about saving energy? (She turns to see that he is
fast asleep.) I guess Johnny is the best energy saver of us all.

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Secret to Ice Fishing
Setup: Two Cub Scouts ice fishing. Need candy gummy worm(s) as prop.
Cub Scout 1: Enters and pretends to ice fishing.
Cub Scout 2: Enters and greets Scout 1, commenting on the cold weather.
Cub Scout 1: Mumbles a greeting (mouth full) and then Scout 1 catches a fish, then another, then
another.
Cub Scout 2: Watches amazed and asked "What's your secret?"
Cub Scout 1: Answers with a mumble. This can be drawn out with hilarious results. Finally the 1st
scout slowly pulls a gummy (candy) worm from his mouth and exclaims proudly "You gotta keep
the worms warm!"
Run On: Squirrels
Setup: 2 Cub Scouts
Cub Scout 1: Just standing there
Cub Scout 2: Runs On Yelling franticly they are after me they are after me
Cub Scout 1: "what’s wrong?"
Cub Scout 2: "They are after me!"
Cub Scout 1: "Who’s after you?"
Cub Scout 2: "The squirrels are after me they think I’m nuts"
Cub Scout 2 runs off
Repeat as run on…
Cub Scout 1: Just standing there
Cub Scout 2: Runs On Yelling franticly they are after me they are after me
Cub Scout 1: "what’s wrong?"
Cub Scout 2: "They are all over me, they are all over me!”
Cub Scout 1: "What’s all over you?"
Cub Scout 2: "My Clothes"
Cub Scout 2 runs off

25
Climb That
Setup: Two Cub Scouts meet, and the first Cub Scout begins to brag he can climb anything.
Cub Scout 1: "Can you climb that tree?"
Cub Scout 2: "Sure I've done it lots of times."
Cub Scout 1: "Can you climb the steep hill over there?"
Cub Scout 2: "No sweat, no problem for me."
Cub Scout 1: "How about the Empire State Building?"
Cub Scout 2: "Done it, did it."
Cub Scout 1: "How about Mount Everest?"
Cub Scout 2: "Boy that was I cold day, I've done that too. I told you I am the world's greatest
climber, I can climb anything!"
Cub Scout 1: "I'll bet you ten bucks I can show you something that you can't climb."
Cub Scout 2: "You’re on!"
Cub Scout 1: pulls out a flashlight and shine the beam up into the sky “all right climb that!"
Cub Scout 2: "Are you crazy? No Way!"
Cub Scout 1: "I knew you would back out, now pay up!"
Cub Scout 2: "I won't pay because it’s not fair. I know you, I'd start climbing and I'd get half way
and you'd turn the flashlight off!"
Bear Chase
Setup: Two Cub Scouts wearing boots, one pair of tennis shoes, and a campfire. The two Cub Scouts
are sitting around the camp fire.
Cub Scout 1: Turns quickly as if he heard something, then bends over to put on his tennis shoes.
Cub Scout 2: What are you doing?
Cub Scout 1: I am putting on my tennis shoes.
Cub Scout 2: I can see that, why are you putting on your tennis shoes?
Cub Scout 1: There’s a bear coming into camp.

26
Cub Scout 2: How will tennis shoes help, you can't outrun a bear!
Cub Scout 1: I know I can't outrun the bear, I just have to outrun you!
Why Are You Late?
Setup: The cast is a Boss and 4 Workers. The skit takes place in an office.
Boss: (to worker #1) Why are you late?
Worker #1: (Rushing into work, breathless.) Sorry I'm late, Boss. My car broke down, so I took the
bus. But the driver hit a tree, so I had to take a cab. And it broke down, too. Fortunately, I was near a
farm so I borrowed the horse. But it ran so fast that it had a heart attack and collapsed. I had to jog
the rest of the way!
Worker #2 & 3: come in late with exactly the same excuse. The boss becomes a little bit more
exasperated each time, until #4 finally comes in, late of course.
Boss: Why are you late? No, wait. Let me guess. Your car broke down, so you took the bus. But the
bus driver hit a tree, so you took a cab. And it broke down too. Fortunately, you were near a farm
and so you borrowed the horse. But it ran so fast that it had a heart attack and collapsed, so you had
to jog the rest of the way, right?
Worker #4: No boss, you got it all wrong! The streets were so crowded with broken down cars,
buses and cabs, trees, dead horses, and worst of all some crazy joggers that I couldn't get through!
A Series of Run Ins…
Cub Scout One: "Excuse me, but is that the sun or the moon?"
Cub Scout Two: "I don't know. I'm new to these parts too."
Cub Scout One: "I heard you had an accident on your hike today."
Cub Scout Two: "No but I did get bitten by a rattlesnake."
Cub Scout One: "You don't call that an accident?"
Cub Scout Two: "Heck no, he did that on purpose."
Cub Scout 1: I went fishing last week.
Cub Scout 2: What did you catch?
Cub Scout 3: Three bass and one smelt.
Cub Scout 4: It did? Which one?

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The Announcement
Cast: Master of Ceremonies and a volunteer in the audience.
Master of Ceremonies: And now it's time to make a spot announcement. (Dog barks from the
audience.) Thank you Spot.
Going to Court
This one is a run on that has been around for years and will be for years more. One of the nice things
about this one is that you can use as little as two appearances or if necessary, and you can expand
upon it to other situations involving the case and court wordplay.
Cast: Master of Ceremonies, Litigant, briefcase
Each time the litigant comes in, the Master of Ceremonies is about to announce or close a skit.
Master of Ceremonies: Hello? I’m trying to introduce the next act? What are you doing here?
Litigant: (coming in with briefcase) Uh, excuse me, I'm taking my (lift up briefcase) case to court.
Next appearance, the litigant is crawling on the ground with a flashlight, without the briefcase:
Master of Ceremonies: Oh, it's you again. What are you doing down on the ground?
Litigant: I lost my case!
Next appearance, the litigant is up on a chair, a tall tree stump, in a tree, whatever, carrying his
briefcase. He makes noise to get attention, and the Master of Ceremonies shines a light on him.
Master of Ceremonies: What are you doing now?
Litigator: I'm taking my case to a higher court!
Last appearance is a little dangerous. Be careful to have plenty of open space where people won't get
hurt, and that the Master of Ceremonies is ready for this.
Suddenly the briefcase is flying through the air and lands near the Master of Ceremonies.
Master of Ceremonies: (Surprised and Flustered) What's this all about?
Litigator: My case got thrown out!
Other appearances: Litigant is opening and closing the case – “It’s an open and shut case”; Litigant
puts the case on a pillow – “I rest my case”; Litigant holding the case upside down – “My case got
overturned”

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Campfire Song Ideas
The following section contains some possible Campfire Songs that can be used in the program.
There are many different song types that make ideal campfire songs:
 Action Songs  Traditional Songs  Scouting Songs
 Cam Specific Songs  Patriotic Songs  National Anthem
 Inspirational Songs  Reverent Songs  Rounds
 Silly Songs  Theme Songs  Repeat After Me Songs
Boom Chicka Boom
I said a Boom Chicka Boom
I said a Boom Chicka Boom
I said a Boom Chicka Rocka Chicka Rocka Chicka Boom
Uh huh
Oh yeah
One more time ______ style.
Janitor Style:
I said a Broom Sweep-a Broom
I said a Broom Sweep-a Broom
I said a Broom Sweep-a Mop-a Sweep-a Mop-a Sweep-a Broom
Baseball Style:
I said a boom chicka boom
I said a boom chicka boom
I said a boom chicka rocka hit that baseball to the moon.
Barn-yard Style:
I said a moo chicka moo
I said a moo chicka moo
I said a moo chicka watch your step, don't track it in the room.
Race Car Style:
I said a vroom shifta vroom

29
I said a vroom shifta vroom
I said a vroom shifta grind-a shifta grind-a shifta vroom
Parent Style:
I said a boom GO TO YOUR ROOM
I said a boom GO TO YOUR ROOM
I said a boom GO TO YOUR ROOM and don't come out 'til next June.
Taco Bell Style:
I said a bean chicka bean
I said a bean chicka bean
I said a bean and cheese burrito and a nacho supreme.
McDonalds Style:
I said a Big Mac and Fries
I said a Big Mac and Fries
I said a Big Mac and Fries and don’t forget to Super-Size.
Surfer Style:
I said a dude chicka dude
I said a dude chicka dude
I said a dude chicka wipe out chicka WHOA chicka dude
Cellphone Style:
I said a call me on my cell
I said a call me on my cell
I said a call me, text me, call me, text me, call me on my cell
Star Wars Style:
I said a zoom chicka zoom
I said a zoom chicka zoom

30
I said a Luke I am your father Join the Dark Side chicka zoom.
Cub Scout Spirit
I've got that Cub Scout Spirit,
Up in my head, Up in my head, Up in my head,
I've got that Cub Scout Spirit, Up in my head,
Up in my head, to stay.
Deep in my heart, Deep in my heart, Deep in my heart,
I've got that Cub Scout Spirit, Deep in my heart,
Deep in my heart, to stay.
Down in my feet, Down in my feet, Down in my feet,
I've got that Cub Scout Spirit, Down in my feet,
Down in my feet to stay.
All over me, all over me, All over me,
I've got that Cub Scout Spirit, All over me,
All over me, to stay.
Up in my head, Deep in my heart,

31
Down in my feet,
All over me, All over me, to stay.
The Other Day (I Met a Bear)
The other Day (echo) I met a bear (echo)
A great big bear (echo), a way out there (echo)
(All sing end line) The other day I saw a bear, a great big bear a way out there.
(Continue in the same manner)
He looked at me, I Iooked at him, he sized up me, I sized up him...(All sing end line)
He said to me, why don’t you run? I see you ain’t got any gun...(All sing end line)
And so I ran, away from there, but right behind me was that bear... (All sing end line)
In front of me, there was a tree, a great bit tree, oh Glory be... (All sing end line)
The nearest branch, was 10 feet up, I’d have to jump and trust my luck... (All sing end line)
And so I jumped, into the air, But I missed that branch, a way up there... (All sing end line)
But don’t you fret, and don’t you frown, because I caught that branch on the way back down... (All
sing end line)
This is the end, there ain‟t no more, unless I meet that bear once more... (All sing end line)
Phineas & Ferb Theme Song
There's 104 days of summer vacation, and school comes along just to end it
So the annual problem for our generation is finding a good way to spend it
Like maybe...
Building a rocket, Or fighting a mummy, Or climbing up the Eiffel Tower
Discovering something that doesn't exist (Hey!)

32
Or giving a monkey a shower
Surfing tidal waves, Creating nanobots, Or locating Frankenstein's brain
(It's over here!)
Finding a dodo bird, Painting a continent, Or driving your sister insane
(Phineas!)
As you can see There's a whole lot of stuff to do Before school starts this fall
(Come on Perry)
So stick with us 'cause Phineas and Ferb Are gonna do it all
So stick with us 'cause Phineas and Ferb are Gonna do it all!
(Mom! Phineas and Ferb are making a title sequence! )
Bug Juice
Tune: On Top of Old Smoky
At camp with the Cub Scouts, they gave us a drink
We thought it was Kool-Aid because it was pink
But the thing that they gave us would gross out a moose
For that great tasting pink drink was really bug juice
It looked fresh and fruity like tasty Kool-Aid
But the bugs that were in it were murdered with Raid
We drank it by gallons, we drank it in tons
But then the next morning, we all had the runs
So if you drink bug juice and a fly drives you mad
He’s just getting even, because you swallowed his dad

33
Alice the Camel
Alice the camel has 3 humps, Alice the camel has 3 humps,
Alice the camel has 3 humps, so go Alice go
Alice the camel has 2 humps…(continue same pattern until you reach “no humps”)
Alice the camel has no humps, Alice the camel has no humps
Alice the camel has no humps, because Alice is a horse
Bazooka Bubblegum Song
My momma gave me a penny
She told me to buy a henny
But I didn’t buy no henny
(Chorus)
Instead, I bought bubblegum.
Bazooka-zooka bubblegum
My momma gave me a nickel
She told me to buy a pickle
But I didn’t buy no pickle
(Chorus)
My momma gave me a dime
She told me to buy a lime
But I didn’t buy no lime
(Chorus)
My momma gave me a quarter

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She told me to buy some water
But I didn’t buy no water
(Chorus)
My momma gave me a dollar
She told me to buy a collar
But I didn’t buy no collar
(Chorus)
My momma gave me a five
She told me to stay alive
But I didn’t stay alive
Instead, I choked on bubblegum.
Hi, my name is Joe
(Chorus)
Hi, my name is Joe and I work at the button factory.
I have a wife, a dog and a family.
One day my boss, He said "Joe."
I said, "What?"
"Are you busy?"
I said, "No."
"Can you press this button with your RIGHT hand?"
(Start pointing with your RIGHT finger/hand with optional noises)
(Chorus) "Can you press this button with your LEFT hand?"

35
(Chorus) "Can you press this button with your RIGHT leg?"
(Chorus) "Can you press this button with your LEFT leg?"
(Continue as long as the audience can take it, using Head, Shoulder, Knee, Elbow, and Tongue ...
Ending: (Chorus) One day my boss, he said "Joe, are you busy?" I said "YES!!!"
Goin’ on a Lion Hunt
A repeat after me and do as I do song
I’m goin’ on a lion hunt (march in place)
But I’m not afraid.
Got me shotgun (pretend to hold a rifle)
Lookin’ for a lion (make gestures looking around)
But I don’t see no lion (hold hands up and shake head)
Come to a river
Swim the river (make swimming gestures)
Come to a tree
Climb the tree (make gestures climbing up and down)

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Come to a swamp
Through the swamp (make gestures walking on tippy toes)
Come to a cave
Through the cave (crouch down and walk in place)
There’s the lion! (point into the group)
Aim that shotgun! (pretend to aim a rifle)
Fire that shotgun! (pretend to fire a rifle)
BOOM!!!!!!
I missed him, I missed him!!
Back through the cave (crouch down and walk in place)
Back through the swamp (make gestures walking on tippy toes)
Back down the tree (make gestures climbing up and down)
Back through the river (make swimming gestures)

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And ya wanna know why?
‘Cause we’ve been a-lying the whole time!!
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Peanut, Peanut Butter (and Jelly)
First you take the peanuts And you smash ‘em, You smash ‘em
First you take the peanuts And you smash ‘em, You smash ‘em
For your Peanut, Peanut Butter (and Jelly)
Then you take the grapes And you squash ‘em, You squash ‘em
Then you take the grapes And you squash ‘em, You squash ‘em
Then you take the bread And you spread it, You spread it
Then you take the bread And you spread it, You spread it
Then you take your sandwich And you bite it, You bite it
Then you take your sandwich And you bite it, You bite it
(sing like your mouth is full)
Um um, um um um um (um um)
Um um, um um um um (um um)

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Campfire Story Ideas
The following section contains some possible Campfire Stories that can be used in the program.
These are particularly helpful during the later portions of the program to begin the process of
closing the campfire in a solemn and peaceful mood.
When to Tell Stories?
 Never repeat a story
 Never simply read a story – the reader should engage in ‘presenting’ the story
 Wait for the campfire to be nearing embers or has faded
 Insist on complete silence
 Never tell them "it's just a story"
 If they ask if it's true, try lines like "What do you think?"
 A story is a great way to end a campfire before sending the Cub Scouts to bed
Winter Cub Story
Years ago, right here at this camp, a Cub pack, much like ours came out for the weekend. As with
most every pack, there's always one Cub, who's much better than everyone else in his camping
skills. This Pack had an exceptional Cub, who everyone looked up to, to help them out if they were
having any problems. This Cub could walk farther than anyone else, catch bigger fish, make a better
snow-fort to sleep in, start a fire with one match every time, could snowshoe faster than the leaders,
and many more skills. Everyone would ask him for help, because he was so good. The leaders
relayed on him to help teach all the Cub skills, and he did it with a smile on his face. Everyone liked
him because he was so friendly.
Saturday night, he and a few of his friends decided to sleep outside in a snow fort. The Cub helped
everyone to get settled, before turning in himself. The Camp Chief came out to check on them
periodically, so no one would get cold. In the middle of the night, the Cub was awoken by the call to
nature. He woke up a couple of his buddies to go with him, as he knew that no one should go
anywhere without a buddy. His friends told him that since he was the best Cub in the pack, and
knew so much, that there was no chance for something to go wrong. You all know, that flattery is
great for one's ego, and this Cub was no different. He got dressed and ventured outside to one of the
biffies, to complete his task.
After he had done, he got dressed again, and started back to his snow fort. But when he opened the
door to the bathroom, he saw that a storm had moved in. He started to return to his fort, but the
tracks he had left had been blown over by the storm. He tried to find his way back, but the wind was
driving the snow in his eyes and he couldn't see anything. He walked as fast as he could to where he
thought the fort was, but he couldn't find it. He walked, and stumbled in the storm for what seemed
a long time, when he realized he was in trouble. He remembered the first rule when lost in the
winter: stop and build a fire. He found a spot to dig out a cave in a snow bank, and crawled in. He
had an emergency kit with him, and quickly had a fire going.

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The next morning, everyone awoke to find a clean, crisp layer of white snow had covered the camp.
It didn't take long for the Cub's friends to realized that he was missing, and they ran to tell the rest
of the camp. Everyone got dressed in their warmest clothes and quickly started a search party. They
scoured the entire camp for hours, but couldn't find the Lost Cub. For the rest of the day, everyone
searched for him. They called the police to help, but still couldn't find him. For days, search parties
combed the area looking for the Cub, but he was never found.
It was a sad year for that Cub Pack. They had lost a great friend. In the spring, they gathered again at
the camp to search for the Cub's remains. Again, everyone searched everywhere, but couldn't find
him.
I often walk through these woods at night, and often think about the Lost Cub. It's been said that if
you are walking alone through these woods at night, you may feel a cold draft shiver down your
back. It maybe the Lost Cub reminding you to get a BUDDY!
The KOOLAMUNGA Test
Long ago, somewhere in Africa, a little place called Koolamunga had a Scout troop but no Cub Pack.
When the missionary, John Cristy, sent out word that he was going to start a pack, all the boys who
were too young to be Scouts rushed over to join.
John looked out at rows and rows of faces - black, white, brown, yellow, and some so dirty you
couldn't tell. It was impossible to start a pack with 40 or 50 Cubs! "You can't be a Cub until you are
eight," he said, "so would everybody younger please go home."
Nobody left. The six and seven-year-olds stood as tall as they could and tried to look tough. John
realized he would have to sort them out some other way. So he told them the Cub Law. And then he
said, "Next week, we will have an obstacle race. You can all come, but I shall start the pack with the
12 boys who do their best to keep the Law during the race."
A big crowd gathered on race day. The Scouts came along to help John pick his 12 Cubs. John
designed an obstacle course so tough that it automatically eliminated the boys who were too young.
The others had to run half a kilometer downhill to the river through prickles and a mangrove
swamp with knee-deep mud. Then they had to swim across the river. On the other side, they had to
climb a steep bank, go along the top, cross over the river again by a fallen tree bridge, and finally
climb 300 m up the hill to the finish.
"This is not a race," John told them. "It's a test to see who can really do his best to keep the Cub
Law." And he was already sorting them out. Some jabbered away and didn't listen to the rules. One
put his foot over the starting line. "Ready, steady, GO!" John shouted, and off they went.
Very soon, some of them were yelling and swearing at the prickles. In the swamp, some gave up,
pretending they were hurt. One boy thought he would be clever and sneak along the bank instead of
swimming across the river.

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A small boy caught his foot in a floating branch and thought it was a crocodile. John didn't blame
him for yelling, but noticed a red-headed boy swim back to pull the branch free. Then he saw a
white hand shoot out and duck a black head. That settled the white boy's chances, but the black face
came up smiling and the boy swam on without complaint. On the tree bridge, there was a good deal
of bumping, some by mistake and some by mistake-on- purpose.
Only 20 boys finished the race, and the first 12 home were sure they would be chosen. But the
Scouts put aside those who had cheated or taken short cuts, those who had pretended to be hurt,
and those who had sworn or lost their temper.
John chose only boys who had done their best to keep the Cub Law. There were 11 of them. For the
12th, he chose a boy named Peter who was watching but hadn't taken part in the race. John knew
his mother was ill. She'd asked Peter to look after the younger children to make sure they didn't fall
into the river, and he did it without a grumble.
And who do you think he asked to be his sixers? He chose the red-haired boy who had turned back
to help with the crocodile that wasn't a crocodile, and the black boy who came up smiling after
being ducked.
And that's how the 1st Koolamunga Pack began. If you'd been there, would you have been one of
the 12 chosen?
If Only…
Won Lee was a stone cutter who lived in ancient China. He cut large stones and he cut small stones.
He made them into ornaments for gardens. Some he cut to build houses. He was proud of his work,
but sometimes he would think, "If only I had more money" or "If only I had less work."
One day, Won Lee was walking home from work. The sun was very hot and he was tired, so he sat
down at the side of the road. He felt the heat of the sun and thought, "It's the sun that gives us the
daylight, the warmth to grow our crops. Surely the sun must be the most powerful of all things."
Won Lee said quietly to himself, "God, if only I could be the sun. I would love to feel what it is like to
be the most powerful, the greatest of all things."
God answered Won Lee. "You may become the sun." He said. And Won Lee became the sun. He felt
wonderful; so strong and powerful. He shone down on the world far below.
After a few days, a puffy white cloud appeared in the sky. It drifted about and, when it came near
Won Lee, it blotted out his rays and cast a shadow on the world. Won Lee was sad. Surely this cloud
was more powerful than he? "If only I were the cloud. That would make me the greatest of all
things," he said.
God heard, and again He answered: "Won Lee, you may become the cloud." So Won Lee floated
about the sky feeling very grand.

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One day, Won Lee saw a great black cloud coming his way. Soon it surrounded him, and he saw the
black cloud dripping droplets of water. The drops fell on the earth and made a mighty river.
Won Lee thought that this black cloud must be very powerful to swallow up a cloud and turn itself
into a river, so he said, "If only I were the river. How mighty I would be. Then I would be truly
happy."
Again God heard and answered: "Okay. You may be the river."
So Won Lee flowed along, feeling the mighty rush of water. Then he came to a bend in the river.
There was a great boulder jutting out into the river. The great boulder held the river, swirling it
back on itself.
Won Lee thought, "The rock! The rock! At last I have found the mightiest of all things. If this rock
can hold back the raging river, then it is the greatest. If only I were this great big rock, I would be
happy."
So God made Won Lee into the boulder and he stood there, holding back the water and feeling very
great and happy. Then, one day, along came a man who cut a large piece off the boulder. Won Lee
was sad. No longer was he the greatest if this man could come along and cut him up.
"If only I could be the man who cut up the stone, I would surely be the greatest," Won Lee thought.
And God said to Won Lee: "But you are the Stone Cutter!"
Webelos Legend
Hear now the Webelos legend; The tale of the Webelos tribe; The tale of Akela its Chieftain.
'Hoo', called the owl in the darkness and Mowglie, the Indian boy Lay in his tipi and listened to the
rustle of trees in the night.
'Boom' went the deep muffled beat of the great ceremonial drum; the braves of the tribe were
convening, He wished he could answer that call.
Quick, like the flight of an arrow; quiet, in the hush of the night; before a great fire ring they
gathered Awaiting Akela their Chief.
Here in the great council ring fire On top of the cliff there they met. Here often they come for
decisions Here, too, the Great Spirit they sought.
Here they sought help from the Spirit On hunt or on warpath; in peace. Here they met their Chief
Akela; Awaited his final decrees.
Now with the 'boom' of the big drum All was quiet, the night was quiet still. The great ceremonial
fire, when lighted, illuminated the hill

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The tom-toms began, set the rhythm, Akela stepped into the Ring. First low and slow, then ... like
thunder... The beat as he danced near the fire.
Dancing with grace, full of gesture, In costume he told of his life. He told of the strength of his father,
The powerful 'Arrow of Light'
'Kind Eyes' his mother, taught those things that only a mother can know. He once save her life with
his arrow; His father helped fashion his bow.
The tom-toms beat on and his dance Told of trips to the forest, where wolf Taught him the ways of
the wild life of the ground, of the tracks, ways to food.
Through dancing and gesture he told how he next faced the Bear and learned The meaning of
Courage; and then He became a young Scout on the trail.
Akela, the Wise, closed his dance. By sign and by gesture he told How the Tribe can be strong only
when The boys of the Tribe are quite strong.
He said this, 'The future is hidden But if we are strong and are brave, If we can teach our boys to be
square, Our tribe will continue to be strong.'
“Let us name our tribe for the Bobcat, The Wolf and the Bear and the Scout, The Webelos Tribe we'll
be called and The strongest of all we will be."
Akela thus ended his dance The beat of the tom-tom was stilled. In silence the warriors stood, Then
gave the great guttural "HOW"!
The fire burned low, all was still. No sound broke the hush on the hill, Save the crackle of embers
and all The mysterious half- noises of night.
The braves raised their right hand toward heaven. "Living Circle" was formed with their left. The
Webelos pledge was then given; "To live and help live' was their pledge.
This, then, is the Webelos legend. This, then, is the reason they're strong. They honor the pledge
which they make; "To live and help live" is their goal.
Akela’s Test
Baloo: Akela had to pass a test to prove himself worthy of becoming chief. All the braves were given
four arrows. These were special arrows, once they had been used they would shatter. They could
only eat food they had caught themselves. The brave who stayed out the longest would become
chief.
Akela: I walked far from camp and stopped at the side of a clearing. I waited all night for a deer to
come by. I took careful aim and shot. It provided me with food for many days. Its hide provided me
with clothing.

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Baloo: This showed that Akela had learned the basic skills he needed. It also showed the virtue of
patience. The rank of Bobcat indicates the Cub Scout has learned the basic skills. Will _____ come up
and join us by the campfire. Your parents will join you later. ____ has earned his (their) Bobcat
badge(s).
Akela: I walked along the trail near the stream. There, I came upon a friend laying in the trail. He
had used up all his arrows and was starving. I saw a squirrel in a nearby tree. I wanted to save my
arrows for bigger game, but my friend was starving. So, I shot the squirrel for my friend.
Baloo: This showed Akela had learned the value of friendship and that he was unselfish. The Wolf
badge indicates the Cub Scout has learned new things has he travels the trail of Scouting. Will _____
come up and join us by the campfire. ____ has earned his (their) Wolf badge(s).
Akela: As I followed the trail by the stream, I came face to face with a huge bear. It growled and
started running toward me. I strung my bow, took careful aim and when he was near I shot and
killed him. He provided me with food for many more days. His heavy coat provided me with shelter
from the cold nights.
Baloo: This showed Akela is brave. This is also why honor the Cubs at the next level of
accomplishment with the Bear badge. Will _____ come up and join us by the campfire. ____ has earned
his (their) Bear badge(s).
Akela: The meet from the bear lasted for many days, but soon I had to continue on to search of more
food. I came upon a wolf that had just killed a dear. The wolf saw me and ran off. I was hungry, but I
had promised to only eat food I had killed, so I continued on.
Baloo: This showed Akela's honesty. To earn the Webelos badge, the Cub Scout must learn the Boy
Scout law which includes honesty. Will _____ come up and join us by the campfire. ____ has earned his
(their) Webelos badge(s).
Akela: I was many days from our camp. I needed food to give me the strength to make it back to
camp. So, I tracked the wolf I had seen before. I took my last arrow, took careful aim and missed. I
was scared because I had no food or arrows. As I started back to camp, I prayed to the Great Spirit.
Suddenly, I saw the arrow; it was still whole. I followed the wolf's trail again. I took aim and shot
him. I now had enough food to return home
Baloo: Akela learned that sometimes you have to ask for help. Our Cub Scouts sometimes need help
also. Their parents provide that help. So, will the parents please come up and stand behind their
sons.
The Dark Sucker Theory
This has also been performed as a hilarious skit by an energetic leader dressed as a Mad Scientist!
For years, it has been believed that electric bulbs emit light, but recent information has proven
otherwise. Electric bulbs don't emit light; they suck dark. Thus, we call these bulbs Dark-Suckers.

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The Dark-Sucker Theory and the existence of dark-suckers prove that dark has mass and is heavier
than light.
First, the basis of the Dark-Sucker Theory is that electric bulbs suck dark. For example, take the
Dark-Sucker in the room you are in. There is much less dark right next to it than there is elsewhere.
The larger the Dark-Sucker, the greater its capacity to suck dark. Dark-Suckers in the parking lot
have a much greater capacity to suck dark than the ones in this room.
As it is with all things, Dark-Suckers don't last forever. Once they are full of dark, they can no longer
suck. This is proven by the dark spot on a full Dark-Sucker.
A candle is a primitive Dark-Sucker. A new candle has a white wick. You can see that after the first
use, the wick turns black, representing all the dark that has been sucked into it. If you put a pencil
next to the wick of an operating candle, it will turn black. This is because it got in the way of the
dark flowing into the candle. One of the disadvantages of these primitive Dark-Suckers is their
limited range.
There are also portable Dark-Suckers. In these, the bulbs can't handle all the dark by themselves
and must be aided by a Dark Storage Unit. When the Dark Storage Unit is full, it must be either
emptied or replaced before the portable Dark-Sucker can operate again.
Dark has mass. When dark goes into a Dark-Sucker, friction from the mass generates heat. Thus, it
is not wise to touch an operating Dark-Sucker. Candles present a special problem as the mass must
travel into a solid wick instead of through clear glass. This generates a great amount of heat and
therefore it's not wise to touch an operating candle-type Dark-Sucker.
Also, dark is heavier than light. If you were to swim just below the surface of the lake, you would
see a lot of light. If you were to slowly swim deeper and deeper, you would notice it getting darker
and darker. When you get really deep, you would be in total darkness. This is because the heavier
dark sinks to the bottom of the lake and the lighter light floats at the top. This is why it is called light.
Finally, we must prove that dark is faster than light. If you were to stand in a lit room in front of a
closed, dark closet, and slowly opened the closet door, you would see the light slowly enter the
closet. But since dark is so fast, you would not be able to see the dark leave the closet.
Next time you see what is called an electric bulb, remember that it is really a Dark-Sucker.
One Day at a Time
A friend of mine was walking down a deserted Mexican beach at sunset. As he walked along, he
began to see another man in the distance. As he grew nearer, he noticed that the local native kept
leaning down, picking something up and throwing it out into the water. Time and again he kept
hurling things out into the ocean.
As our friend approached even closer, he noticed that the man was picking up starfish that had been
washed up on the beach and, one at a time, he was throwing them back into the water.

45
My friend was puzzled. He approached the man and said, "Good evening, friend. I was wondering
what you are doing."
"I'm throwing these starfish back into the ocean. You see, it's low tide right now and all of these
starfish have been washed up onto the shore. If I don't throw them back into the sea, they'll die up
here from lack of oxygen."
"I understand," my friend replied, "but there must be thousands of starfish on this beach. You can't
possibly get to all of them before the tide changes. There are simply too many. And don't you realize
this is probably happening on hundreds of beaches all up and down this coast. Can't you see that
you can't possibly make a difference?"
The local native smiled, bent down and picked up yet another starfish, and as he threw it back into
the sea, he replied, "Made a difference to that one!"
Similarly, there are hundreds of thousands (millions) of boys around the world who can benefit
from the Scouting experience. We can't reach them all, but even within our own groups we see our
task overwhelming, not making any difference. However, to that one boy in your den or pack who
looked to you as a role model, a friend, an inspiration (even if he never told you) you've made a
difference!
You Do Make A Difference -- in making our world a better place to be....One Boy at a Time!
Job at the Zoo
In high school, I needed money. I was able to drive, had a girlfriend, and like to go out with my
friends. My folks didn't have much money and I needed to pay my own way. I had already done jobs
working at restaurants and grocery stores and wanted to try something more interesting. While
searching around, I stopped at the zoo.
As it turned out, the zoo director liked my style and said he had an interesting job that he felt I could
handle. We walked through the back alleys and tunnels of the zoo that most people never see until
we got to the gorilla cage. But, it was empty.
The director told me that their gorilla named Kong had caught a bug and was in quarantine for the
next week. Kong was getting old and they were even now shopping around for a replacement since
Kong just sits on a tree branch holding onto a rope all day. When the crowds started arriving on the
weekend, they'd be disappointed to have no gorilla since everyone enjoys the gorilla exhibit, even a
boring old gorilla.
The director said he had a gorilla suit I could wear if I would be interested in sitting on the branch
for 4 hours at a time so the people would at least have something to look at. It sounded good to me,
not the usual high school job, so I told him I would.
The next day I went to the zoo, put on the gorilla suit and climbed into the cage. I sat on the branch
holding the rope and soon there was a crowd of children pressing their faces to the bars. It didn't
take long for me to start getting bored, so I would scratch my armpits, thump my chest, and twirl

46
the rope. About an hour passed and I began to really get into this gorilla stuff. I would grab the rope
and swing across the cage. The kids thought it was great so I started swinging higher and higher.
In the next cage there was a lion and he was becoming irritated by my antics and began to pace his
cage and roar. I kept swinging and started to swing to the lion's side of the cage and would use my
feet to push off of his bars. I could really swing out far and he roared even louder. It was actually
pretty fun and the kids were really enjoying the show.
All of a sudden I missed the bars, flew through, and dropped right into the lion's cage! I landed on
my back and was stunned but immediately got up and ran to the front of the cage to the crowd,
screaming "Help me, help me, I'm not who you think I am!"
Just as I yelled, the lion jumped on my back and knocked me to the ground. His head was at my neck
and I was sure I'd never make it to graduation. Then he whispered in my ear, "Shut up stupid, or
you'll get us both fired".
The Trip to the Moon
Take a seated position in front of the audience so they can all see you.
Would you like to go on a trip to the moon? O.K., let's go. Watch me and do all the things I do and
repeat after me all the things I say. Here we go!
We're going on a moon trip. We're ready for the count down.
10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1- Blast off! (Make a blasting sound as you thrust arms swiftly toward the sky.)
We're coming to the Milky Way--What a pretty display. We can't go around it. We can't go under it.
We can't go over it. I guess we'll have to slide down it. (Put feet out in front of you and hold both
sides of chair as if sliding down slide while saying whee-eee)
We're coming to a shooting star--A great big star. We can't go around it. We can't go under it. We
can't go over it. I guess we'll have to ride it. (Hold hands as if holding coil of rope and then throw
out as if to lasso a point of the star and pull back hard while saying Zoom-omm-ommt)
We're coming to a meteorite - A great big meteorite. We can't go around it. We can't go under it. We
can't go over it! I guess we'll have to dodge it. Ready here goes! (Dodge from side to side while
saying Whew-w-w while wiping sweat from brow,)
We're coming to the moon - What a lonely place. We can't go around it. We can't go under it. We
can't go over it! I guess we'll have to land on it. (Jerk back in seat as if jolted on landing. Holding
hands over eyes.) It sure is dark out there. (Reach out in front of you as if grasping doorknob and
ever so slowly push open rocket ship door.) (Just as arm is extended full length as if door is all the
way open a loud voice coming from someplace close by says BOO!) Let's get out of here! (Quickly
pull arm back as if shutting door.)

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(At this point retrace all the motions hurriedly, Blast-off, dodging meteorite, riding shooting star,
sliding down Milky Way-Hold arms over head in front of you simulating a parachute, then looking
down at floor say loudly SPLASH! Motion opening space ship door, motion swimming to shore.) I
beat you home and now you've been on a trip to the moon.
Family Day in the Woods
Divide the audience into 6 groups. Each group says the indicated words whenever they hear "their"
word in the story.
SPARROW: Chirp, chirp
CUB SCOUT: Boys are boys
SNAKE: S-s-s-s-s-s-s-s
RABBIT: Hoppity, hoppity
SQUIRREL: Chatter, chatter
TREE: Leafy, leafy
A flock of SPARROWS swooped into the woods and settled on the branch of a TREE. Their chirping
quickly caught the attention of the animals of the forest, and they gathered around to hear the news.
"Hurry up," said the RABBIT, his ears wriggling with impatience. The SQUIRREL leaned in to listen,
and the SNAKE pretended she didn't care.
"It's terrible news!" said Kristy SPARROW. "That pack of CUB SCOUTS is coming to spend the day
again. “OH, no!" a terrible sigh came from all the TREE. "Last time we lost branches and twigs. Kites
and Frisbees tangled our leaves and limbs and Daniel TREE almost caught fire." Jerry RABBIT's ears
had positively frozen in place when he hear the words, CUB SCOUT. Jimmy SQUIRREL almost fell off
the branch he was sitting on, and Beverly SNAKE forgot that she was pretending not to hear. "CUB
SCOUTS," she hissed.
"Why do they have to come here? Last time, I barely escaped with my life." "They are coming
tomorrow," chirped the SPARROWS. "Tomorrow," sputtered Jimmy SQUIRREL. "I've got to gather
acorns before they come and crush them all." Jerry RABBIT hopped off muttering about how he
could reinforce his home. Beverly SNAKE just lay there trying to think of hiding places. The next day
dawned clear and pretty, and the CUB SCOUTS, their parents and their leaders arrived. They spend
the day playing tames, climbing the trees and searching for animals and their tracks. At the end of
the day, they went home a little disappointed because they had not seen a single animal.
That evening, the SPARROWS returned to see how the day had gone. "It was very boring to sit in my
hole all day," said Jerry RABBIT. Jimmy SQUIRREL said that he had spied on the CUB SCOUT all day.
"They were different from last year," said the TREES. ‘We did get a few bruises from the climbing,
but they were pretty careful this time." Beverly SNAKE agreed. "Maybe someone taught them the
Outdoor Code!"

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Campfire Closing Ideas
The following section contains some campfire closings that can be used in the program.
As darkness creeps into our circle of light
As darkness creeps into our circle of light,
Embers that glow and sigh
Draw our friendship circle closer,
Whisper memories that will not die;
God's magic danced in our fire's flames,
And fills the gathering night
With mystery and a wondrous peace.
That bids safe sleep 'til morning's light.
The stars shining over us,
Their light shines before us,
Oh God of Nature,
Grant to us a perfect peace
We've shared a friendship fine and deep,
And now this circle leaves to sleep.
Wood and Water, Wind and Tree
Wood and water, wind and tree,
Wisdom, strength and courtesy,
Scouting favor go with thee.
Sparkling Thoughts
After the closing, (You need enough sugar cubes to give everyone at the fire one)
Ask the group to gather around the dying embers. Pass out the sugar cubes and quietly ask people
to take one and hold onto it. When everyone is ready, together toss the sugar on the fire. You can
compare the flashing sparks and quick flames to happy thoughts or simply enjoy these happy
thoughts in silence.

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We part as brothers
When through the woods and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees,
When I look from lofty mountain grandeur,
And hear the brook and hear the gentle breeze,
Then sings my soul, my savior God to Thee,
How great thou art, how great Thou art.
Where little furred and feathered folk,
In leafy coverts hide,
And where the campfires dusky smoke,
Blends with the eventide,
I want to breathe that smoke once more,
And live by nature's signs,
And mountain torrents muffled roar,
The silence of the pines.
Whatever you are, be noble.
Whatever you do, do well.
Whenever you speak, speak kindly,
Spread happiness wherever you dwell.
There is a destiny that makes us all brothers
None goes his way alone.
What we put into the lives of others,
Comes back into our own.
We came as strangers,
We became friends,
We part as brothers.

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Wisdom, strength and courtesy
Wood and water, wind and tree,
Wisdom, strength and courtesy,
Favor go with thee.
I sought my soul, but my soul I could not see,
I sought my God, but God eluded me,
I sought my brother -- and found all three.
Deep Peace
Deep peace of the running stream to you,
Deep peace of the flowing air to you,
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you,
Deep peace of the shining stars to you,
Deep peace of the Son of Peace to you.
Did you ever watch the campfire, when the wood has fallen low?
And the ashes start to whiten round the embers crimson glow,
Tell me, were you ever nearer to the land of hearts desire,
Than when you sat there thinking with your face towards the fire.
Grow ever stronger
And so, before we close our eyes in sleep,
Let us pledge each other that we'll keep
Scouting friendships, strong and deep,
Till we meet again.
Wood smoke at eventide soothes the soul,
And makes an easy ladder for a prayer.
May the smoke of this fire
Carry your thoughts heavenward,

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And make your hearts strong for good Scouting.
Day is dying in the west,
Heaven is touching earth with rest;
Wait and worship while the night
Sets her evening lamps alight,
To do our best each day
Is our aim in every way;
Be with us god, through the night;
That tomorrow we might
Perform our duties, learn and play,
Grow ever stronger, the Scouting way.
The embers
The embers of our campfire
Are now slowly dying,
The birds and wood folk have gone to their rest.
The stars shining over us,
Their light shines before us;
Oh God of nature,
Grant to us a perfect peace.
Let's remember the food we've shared,
The games we've played, the songs we've sung;
Let's remember all of these things.
Let's remember the skit's we've played,
The hikes we've hiked, the problems we've shared;
Let's remember all of these things.
I now declare this council fire closed,

52
Its memories stored forever in our hearts and minds.
The last day
Comes the last day of many days,
The last campfire of all too few,
Last but not lost.
In years ahead,
These times our memories shall renew.
Each campfire lights anew,
A flame of friendship true,
The joy we've had in knowing you,
Will last the whole year through.
Now as we close our last campfire,
Let's pause for a moment and praise
The Almighty God who saw fit to inspire
Our founder, who gave us these days.
May the Lord grant us his blessing,
And fill our hearts with the spirit
Of truth and peace, now and forever more.
Mosquito
Try this at a closing campfire. Each of the eight speakers holds up a large card showing his or her
letter. You can spell out just about any word that has meaning to the people at your campfire.
M is for the memories we share tonight-the memories of camp.
O is for the opportunities we have to grow together, to learn new skills, and to share fellowship
around this campfire tonight.
S is for the super things we have done here and the super people we have met and made our friends.
Q is for the quiet times we experience together times to reflect and give thanks.
U is for the ultimate peacefulness of the outdoors.

53
I is for the inspiration we receive from nature and from our friends.
T is for the terrific leaders who have been with us at camp.
O is for "Off to bed we go!"
Put them all together, and what do you have?
MOSQUITO!
Spirit from the North
Our Spirit from the North
And our Spirit from the South have left;
Those from the East and the West have also withdrawn;
Now let us slumber quietly until the dawn.

54
Example Campfire Program – Family Campout October 12, 2013
Place: Washington State Park Leaders notified Yes, @ Committee Fire to be built by Doug Less
Date/Time: Sat, Oct. 12, 2013 8:00pm Master of Ceremonies___________ Fire to be put out by Craig Alexander
Cub Pack Committee approval: Y/N
Doug Less Cleanup by Webelos & Leaders
Area to be set up by Doug Less Notes: Approx. 30 – 45 minute show
Spot Title of Skit, Song, or Story By _____________________ Time
1 Opening & Fire-lighting: Peter the Elf Master of Ceremonies 2:00
2 Intro - Ashes Craig Alexander 2:00
3 Skit – The Four Seasons
Master of Ceremonies + 11
Volunteers
2:00
4 Song – The Button Factory Webelos 1:30
5 Run-In – A Hot Meal (1) Bears :30
6 Skit – Climb That Wolves 1:00
7 Song – The Bear Song Webelos 1:30
8 Skit – Why are you late? Wolves 1:30
10 Skit – Pass the Pepper Tigers 1:30
11 Song – Boom Chicka Boom Webelos 2:00
13 Skit – Blanket Toss Team (Intro) Webelos 2:00
14 Song – Bazooka Bubblegum Webelos 1:30
15 Skit – Campfire Time Tigers 1:00
16 Run-In – A Hot Meal (Final) Bears :30
17 Story – The Winter Cub Story Eric Milner 3:00
18 Skit – Blanket Toss Team (Final) Webelos :30
19 Story – The Koolamunga Test Master of Ceremonies 3:00
20 Closing – MOSQUITO 2 of each rank 1:30

55
Peter the Elf
While getting the wood ready for the fire tonight, I came across a small wood-elf trapped in the
underbrush. Since a Scout is always kind, considerate, and helpful, I helped free him. He said his
name was “Peter” and in return for my kindness, he promised to help me if I ever needed it. All I
have to do is call him…
Since this is the first time I’ve ever met a wood-elf, I have no idea if he will keep his promise to me.
Maybe we should see if he will help us to light this fire?
<Shout out> “Peter the Elf, will you light this fire for me?” <Wait for response….none>
<Shout out again> “Peter the Elf, will you light this fire for me?” <Wait for response….none>
Maybe he can’t hear my voice. Let’s all shout out together – “Peter the Elf, will you please light this
fire?”
Peter the Elf, will you please light this fire?
<Time the fire so that it starts after everyone shouts.>
Ashes
Legend has it that Baden-Powell would always take a small amount of ashes from a ceremonial
campfire and then spread these ashes into the next campfire. The main purpose of these ashes is to
share with you the memories of past campfires and to bring to all scouts and scouters the
international aspect of the world brotherhood of scouting.
The ashes I spread into this campfire carry memories of past campfires dating back to Brown Sea
Island in July of 1907, the first Boy Scout camp. They have been carried around the world to almost
400 scouting campfires in many countries where scouting fellowship has been shared.
I will now charge these ashes to this Campfire.
Lord Baden-Powell said:
"We carry our friendships with us in these ashes from other campfires with comrades in other
lands. May the joining of the past fires with the leaping flames of this campfire, symbolize once
more the unbroken chain that binds scouts and scouters of all nations together. With greetings from
our brothers and sisters around the world, I add these ashes and the fellowship therein, to our
campfire."
The Four Seasons
Setup: The narrator narrates, everyone else is volunteers.
Narrator: "I need eleven volunteers for this skit, it’s called Four Seasons!”
• You three are trees.

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