Outdoor Cooking Council Approval: Not Required
Activity Permitted for: D B J C S A
Required: At least one adult trained for outdoor cooking by your council
About Outdoor Cooking Historically, wood fires were the primary source of heat for camp cooking, but the practice of cooking with large fires is no longer recommended because of the detrimental effects on the environment and surrounding vegetation. Instead, use an established fire pit to ignite a small fire or use alternative cooking methods, such as a portable fuelbased cook stove or a solar or box oven. Extensive outdoor cooking is not recommended for Daisies, but a less extensive activity, such as roasting marshmallows or cooking a one-pot meal, is appropriate. Look for campsites and parks with designated fire pit areas. As girls progress, they can learn to use a variety of cooking methods, including wood fire, propane, gas stoves, charcoal, canned heat (great for grilled cheese sandwiches!), and even solar energy.
As older girls become accomplished outdoor chefs, they can expand their skills with new types and techniques of cooking. Learn how to start a fire without matches, try solar cooking, or test taste new campfire cuisine. Plan outdoor recipes. Vote for your favorite meals and plan how to cook them outdoors. Learn More • •
Leave No Trace Outside Magazine: The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Camp Cooking
Include Girl Scout Members with Disabilities
Talk to Girl Scout members with disabilities and their caregivers. Ask about needs and accommodations. Always be sure to contact the location and/or the instructor in advance to ensure they are able to accommodate those with disabilities.
Equity. In addition to physical and social-emotional disabilities, consider the history, culture, and past experiences of the Girl Scout members in your troop that could affect their ability to equally participate in an activity. Work with members and families to understand how an activity is perceived. Ensure that all Girl Scout members and their families feel comfortable and have access to whatever is needed to fully participate, such as proper equipment, prior experiences, and the skills needed to enjoy the activity. COVID-19 Guidelines. Review the Coronavirus Safety in Girl Scouts section under the Standard Safety Guidelines. Be certain to consult your council’s specific COVID-19 guidance which can be accessed under the same section. Always call ahead to the vendor, property or facility involved to check their COVID-19 safety requirements as you prepare girls for this activity.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Review and document your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) before taking girls out for any activity and review it with the girls so they too are prepared. Think through scenarios of what can go wrong such as an accident, physical injury to a girl, missing girl, sudden illness, or sudden weather or water emergencies.
Outdoor Cooking Checkpoints
2022-2023 Safety Activity Checkpoints
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