Questions parents ask
New to scouting? So is almost everyone when they start. Here's what parents typically ask us before signing up.
Common questions
If you've got a question that isn't here, just ask. The contact form goes straight to the committee, and someone will write back within a day or two.
How much does it cost?
$97 to join Pack 129. That is the fee listed on our unit's official BeAScout page, which is also where you sign up. The amount is set through Scouting America and can change, so the BeAScout page is the number to trust.
If cost is a hurdle for your family, talk to the committee before you count yourselves out. Use the contact form and someone will get back to you.
Where and when do you meet?
Pack meetings are the third Thursday of each month, 6:30 PM, at the Eagles Lodge (13140 Lake Shore Dr, Cedar Lake). Den meetings are usually twice a month — your den leader will set the exact cadence when you join.
Summer is lighter — a few campouts and outings, no regular den meetings.
Do I have to camp?
No. Campouts are a highlight for the kids who love them, but they're optional. Plenty of Pack 129 families skip camping and still get the full scouting experience through den meetings, pack events, and day outings.
If your scout wants to camp and you're not up for a tent, we usually have cabin options — or another family who'll happily share theirs.
Do we need to fill out a medical form?
Yes — every scout needs a current BSA Annual Health and Medical Record on file before camping, high-adventure activities, or trips over 72 hours. Most Pack 129 events only need Parts A & B; Part C (a doctor's signature) is only required for longer or more strenuous outings, and we'll tell you ahead of time if one is coming up.
Get the current forms and instructions from the BSA directly:
My kid isn't outdoorsy — is this still for us?
Yes. Cub Scouts isn't a camping club. It's a place for kids to try a lot of things. Some meetings are outside; plenty happen indoors. Some scouts go all-in on hiking; others gravitate to pinewood cars, STEM activities, or cooking. The range is wide on purpose.
My kid is too young / too old, isn't it?
Cub Scouts runs from kindergarten through fifth grade. If your son is in that range, he fits. Older scouts crossover into Scouts BSA (the program formerly known as Boy Scouts), which is open to any youth age 11–17.
What do we need to buy?
A Cub Scout uniform shirt, a neckerchief for the right rank, and the Cub Scout book for that year. That's it to start. Everything else (Pinewood Derby kit, patches, campout gear) the pack provides or loans — and we have a closet of used uniforms if a new one isn't in the budget.
How big a time commitment is this?
Two den meetings a month (~45–60 minutes each) plus a once-a-month pack meeting. A few bigger events a year — Pinewood Derby, Blue & Gold, one or two campouts. Miss a meeting? No one will ask where you were.
Do parents have to stay?
For Lions and Tigers, yes — an adult partner stays for the meeting. From Wolves onward, drop-off is fine, though plenty of parents stick around because, honestly, the meetings are fun.
Is Pack 129 coed?
No — Pack 129 is a boys-only pack. Cub Scouts nationally has been coed since 2018, so if you're looking for a girls or family pack in the area, reach out and we'll point you to one.
Do you post photos of the scouts online?
Some. Pack photos show up on this site and on our Facebook page — campouts, derby day, service projects. They're activity and group shots, and we don't publish scouts' full names next to them.
If you'd rather your son not appear, just tell us. Mention it to any den leader or email CLPack129@gmail.com — you don't need to give a reason, and it's not awkward. We'll keep him out of anything we post.
Already see a photo you want taken down? Email us and it comes down. No debate.
How do I actually join?
Click the big red button. It takes you to BeAScout.org — the BSA's official registration site — pre-filtered to Pack 129. Fill out the form, pay the registration, and we'll be in touch within a few days to get you into the right den. No paperwork by hand, no waiting for the next open house.
Join Pack 129 →