Scout Activities

We have a variety of fun-filled activities for scouts to earn badges, learn something exciting, and have fun.

Visit Basics

Scout groups are welcome and encouraged to visit the park at any time during our normal hours of operation.

Badge Programs

Cantigny Park offers a wide variety of badge programs for Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. The parking fee is waived with a paid program. Due to high demand for our badge programs, available dates can be limited. To request a badge program, please fill out the reservation form linked below.

Scout Visit Reservations

Overnight Camping

Cantigny Park has two campsites available for rental to Scout and youth groups for overnight camping. Our campsites are limited to nationally recognized youth groups (i.e., BSA, GSA, AWANA, YMCA Adventure Guides, etc.). Each site holds 50 people (tent camping only, trailers and campers are prohibited). Overnight camping is available March through October. The campgrounds and Education Center offer fire pits, firewood, picnic tables, restrooms, potable water, and trash recycling bin collection. Advanced reservations are required.

Our campsites may also be reserved on the weekdays for Scout activities. Practice pitching tents, learn to build a fire, cook a meal, or review safe camping procedures.

For more information or questions about camping, please contact:

Kristan Catalani
camping@cantigny.org
630.260.8162

Self-Guided Scout Visits

To reserve a self-guided visit to Cantigny and the First Division Museum for a scouting adventure, please contact Reservation Specialist Kristan Catalani at 630.260.8162 or camping@cantigny.org. Your group can explore the gardens, play on the tanks, and visit the First Division Museum. Troops and Packs that pre-register will receive free parking. Special event days are not included for free parking. We strongly encourage Scouts to be in uniform. Learn while exploring Cantigny by playing augmented-reality games through the Agents of Discovery app!

Explore Cantigny

The First Division Museum, gardens, and grounds at Cantigny Park offer a host of activities and opportunities for Scouts to explore.

Fishing

Scout groups can go fishing at Shaffner Pond, in the northeast corner of the park. Fishing is allowed Saturday and Sunday mornings from sunrise to 8:30 am and Mondays between 9 am and 5 pm. Please call Security at 630.260.8207 to arrange your outing. The pond is home to bluegill, bass, carp, and catfish and is strictly catch and release. Please bring your own fishing poles, bait, and gear. Those over age 16 must have a valid fishing permit.