Brownie Programs

Girl Scouts Nation's Capital is back for year two with Girl Scouts and Gears! Join GSCNC and The Washington Area Bicyclist Association for a scenic ride on the Anacostia RiverWalk Trail! 

All participants must know how to ride a bike independently, and without training wheels. Riding groups and arrival times will be determined prior to the program. Whether your Girl Scout would like to bike for a mile or for three, this is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, learn about bike safety, and represent GSCNC on the trail! 

No bike? No problem! WABA will provide up to 20 bikes for Girl Scouts/Adults in need. Space is limited, please reach out if interested.  

All Girl Scouts will earn a badge and a patch at the end of the program. 

Date: 9/12/26

Time: 9:30-1:00

Location: 

Anacostia River Walk Trail Washington, DC 20020
Levels: D,B,J

Badge/Patch Included? Yes

Contact: ederogat@gscnc.org 

We've been waiting all year for this ....THE DC DIVAS ARE BACK! GET EXCITED, IT'S TIME FOR BOOTCAMP! 

The Divas are DC's very own women's pro tackle football team who are dedicated to leveling the playing field and inspiring future generations of girls and young women in sports. 

In this program, The Divas will lead our K-5 Girl Scouts through fun, age-appropriate drills and activities designed to introduce the fundamentals of football. Girl Scouts will be divided by level and will have plenty of breaks for snacks and water! 

This is a great opportunity to meet other Girl Scouts, get your troop outside, and try something new! 

Date: 9/19/26

Time: 9:30-12:30

Location: 

Walker Mill Middle School

800 Karen Blvd

Capitol Heights, MD 20743
Levels: D,B,J

Badge/Patch Included? Yes

Contact: ederogat@gscnc.org 

Calling all K-5 Girl Scouts! Join GSCNC and the Washington Area Frisbee Club for an opportunity to explore the world of Ultimate Frisbee!

Ultimate is a noncontact, team-based sport that combines elements of soccer, basketball, football, and lacrosse into an energetic game played with a flying disc. During this program, Girl Scouts will rotate through a series of stations led by experienced coaches and competitive Ultimate players. Girl Scouts will practice throwing and catching techniques, game strategy, and teamwork.

Whether your troop is full of experienced athletes or interested in trying a new sport for the first time, The Washington Area Frisbee Club welcomes all! All participating Girl Scouts will earn a badge and fun patch. 

Join us and discover why Ultimate is one of the fastest-growing sports. 

Date: 10/3/26

Time: 9:30-1:00

Location:

Trinity Washington University Fields

125 Michigan Ave. NE

Washington, DC 20017
Levels: D,B,J

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: ederogat@gscnc.org 

Our Butterfly Garden Adventure Tour is an exciting way for Girl Scouts to dive deep into the world of butterflies, pollinators, and the importance of habitats. 

•  Educational Presentation: A captivating introduction to the butterfly life cycle, the role of pollinators in ecosystems, and how to help support them.

• Interactive Learning Stations: Four hands-on stations where Scouts will rotate and learn directly about insects, ecosystems, and the specific needs of butterflies.

• Group Division: With 80 Girl Scouts, they will be divided into four smaller groups after the initial welcome and presentation to ensure more individualized attention at each station.

Date: 9/19/26

Time: 9:30-12:00

Location: 

Glasshouse Butterfly Farm and Garden

969 South Fork River Lane

Shenandoah, VA 22849
Levels: D,B,J

Badge/Patch Included? Yes

Contact:  jhadsell@gscnc.org 

 Thinking about sleepaway camp but not sure if your Girl Scout is ready?

Embracing Camp Confidence is a supportive, interactive open house designed especially for new and first-time camp families-and those still deciding about summer camp.

During this welcoming afternoon at camp, families will explore the camp environment through self-guided discovery, building familiarity and confidence in a relaxed, supportive setting. Families will be able to visit sleeping areas, see how meals and dining work, and learn about the camp health station and camper support systems-helping both Girl Scouts and caregivers understand what daily life at camp is really like.

This event is designed to remove common first-time camp worries-so every Girl Scout can feel ready, confident, and excited for camp.

Come explore camp, build confidence, and take the first step toward a summer adventure. 

Date: 9/19/26

Time: 12:30-3:00

Location: 

Camp Potomac Woods

Leesburg, VA 20716, US
Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: rmontague@gscnc.org 

Celebrate Girl Scout founder, Juliette Gordon Lowe's birthday by joining us at camp for a Halloween themed party. Come boogie on the dance floor, put your aim to the test with target sports, and create a spooky-ish craft. Don’t forget to take part in the camp wide trunk or treat where you can fill your bag with goodies fit for any Halloween celebration. Don't forget to wear your costume for an end of the night costume contest with prize.

Date: 10/31/26

Time: 5:00-9:00

Location: 

Camp Brighton Woods, 120 Brighton Dam Rd

Brookeville, MD 20833, US 
Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

It's time for a spooky, spectacular time at camp by following the trail of bones laid out around camp. Your adventure begins on the sports field where you will learn about the basics of skull identification and get a chance to handle a collection of furs, bones and other animal artifacts. Your adventure will continue by taking a hike along our trail of bones where you will discover interactive stations such as horns vs antlers, musical bones, what's in the box and more! End the evening around the campfire where we will have marshmallows for roasting -- a perfect end to the night! 

Date: 10/24/26

Time: 4:00-9:00

• Multiple 1-hr sessions

Location: 

Camp Crowell, Justin Knoll Rd

Vienna, VA 22124, US 
Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Celebrate Girl Scout founder, Juliette Gordon Lowe's birthday by joining us at camp for a Halloween themed party. Come boogie on the dance floor, put your aim to the test with target sports, and create a spooky-ish craft. Don’t forget to take part in the camp wide trunk or treat where you can fill your bag with goodies fit for any Halloween celebration. Don't forget to wear your costume for an end of the night costume contest with prize.

Date: 10/31/26

Time: 5:00-9:00

Location: 

Camp Potomac Woods

13932 Potomac Woods Ln

Leesburg, VA 20176, US 
Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Girl Scout Ways Workshop: Learn all about what Girl Scouts do!! From traditions and games to songs and ceremonies, girls will complete most requirements of the appropriate GS Ways badge.

Dates: 10/17/26, 10/18/26, 11/21/26, 11/22/26, 12/19/26, 12/20/26, 1/17/27,  2/20/27, 2/21/27, 3/20/27/3/21/27, 4/17/27, 4/18/27

Levels: B, J

Badge/Patch Included? No

Archives Open House: All are welcome to visit for a casual tour of our council's history center. Learn Girl Scout history, discover our programs, and chat with members of the History Team. All visitors get a patch!

Dates: 11/8/26, 12/6/26, 1/10/27, 2/7/27, 3/7/27, 4/4/27, 5/2/27

Time: 1:00-5:00pm

Levels: All

Badge/Patch Included? Yes

Location: 

Girl Scout Archives, 3 Hillcrest Dr., Frederick, MD 21703

Contact: 202-237-1670

How does your Brownie troop differ from one 80 years ago? Do you have the same badges, uniforms, and activities? Earn the vintage Brownie GS thru the Years Badge.

Date: 11/7/26, 2/6/27

Time: 12:30-2:30pm

Location: 

Girl Scout Archives, 3 Hillcrest Dr., Frederick, MD 21703
Levels: B

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: 202-237-1670

 Join camp facilitators to celebrate women's history month by discovering some of the amazing women who have helped shape the environmental movement. Explore the contributions of women such as Rachel Carson, Wangari Maathai, Anna Comstock and more through games, hands-on activities and a camp service project. Over the course of the day participants will grow to know these amazing women and how to become the next generation of wonderful outdoor women!  

Date: 3/20/27

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: 

Camp Crowell, Justin Knoll Rd

Vienna, VA 22124, US  
Levels: B,J

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

"What are you doing in that box?" What if it was not a box? What if it was a rocket, a racecar or a boat? Bring your brain with its amazing ideas to a fun inventing experience at camp. Unleash your big ideas onto a series of challenges which will ask you to invent and innovate your way to the solution. Are you ready? 

Meets the requirements for the Brownie Inventor Badge. 

Date: 3/20/27

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: 

Camp Brighton Woods

120 Brighton Dam Rd

Brookeville, MD 20833, US  
Levels: B

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Join our camp facilitators in discovering the amazing things a team can do! By taking part in games and challenges, participants will practice communication skills, problem solving, and build confidence while helping each other reach their goals. Designed for individuals and groups with little to no experience on a challenge course, this program is a great opportunity for participants to challenge themselves before leveling up to harder elements in future visits to our high ropes course.  

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Join us for a program which provides provision, focus and fun! This opportunity is designed for participants of all experience from curious beginner to seasoned archer. Learn about modern archery equipment, how to shoot safely, and how to improve their skills. Participants will enjoy ample practice time with guidance from our camp facilitators to help them become the archer they want to be.

-What to Expect: All participants will be split into small groups (5-10 people) to take turns shooting. All participants will be given 4-5 chances to shoot. Between turns participants will be asked to wait quietly until their next turn. It is recommended adults bring a quiet activity for their youth to do such as coloring materials, books or cards. Facilitators will provide coloring materials during most sessions. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

 Get ready for an introduction into target sports with a fun and exciting time at slingshots. This fun programs is great for all Girl Scout levels looking for a low stress target sport. Participants will learn how to shoot and how to improve their skills under the guidance of camp facilitators. This session is sure to be a fantastic time for everyone involved. 

- What to Expect: All participants will be split into small groups (5-7 people) to take turns shooting. All participants will have 4-5 opportunities to shoot. Between turns participants will be asked to wait quietly. It is recommended adults bring a quiet activity for their youth such as coloring materials, books and cards. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

It's time to put on your detectives hat and sharpen your observation skills by discovering the amazing changes which take place in the fall! Explore phenology- the study of the climate-driven life cycle changes of plants and animals, through games, hands-on activities and camp exploration. Participants will discover how life changes in the fall and how these changes play an important part in our understanding of the world. 

-What to Expect: Participants will complete a variety of activites inlcuding making a nature journal or phenology wheel, playing phenology/observation game, a nature hike and more. The number of activities completed will depend on the group with some completing all and others just completing some. 

Meets requirements for Brownie Senses Badge. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Flit and flutter into the magical world of monarch butterflies and their host plants, milkweed. Discover the life cycle, migration and habitat of the monarch butterfly through hands-on experiences, games and live animal observations. Explore why the Monarch butterfly is disappearing and the ways everyone can help preserve these beautiful parts of our environment forever. 

What to Expect: Participants will get a chance to observe and interact with live monarch caterpillars to learn about their lifecycle. Participants will also help create or maintain a pollinator garden at the camp. Finally all participants will be offered the opportunity to participate in a symbolic monarch migration where they will mail paper butterflies to schools in Mexico and then receive butterflies back in the spring. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? Yes

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Meet the opossum- a pouch-carrying, bug eating, tree climbing, dead playing marvel of nature. Through hands-on exploration, games and crafts participants will discover the unique adaptations of North America's only marsupial. By the end of the program participants will understand where these animals came from, what they need to survive and the important roles they play in our ecosystems because we all know how awesome the oppossum is. 

-What to Expect: All participants will get a chance to observe and interact with oppossum biofacts such as skulls and furs to learn about their adaptations. Participants will engage in a series of games and other hands-on activities to learn about the habitat and lifecyle of the oppossum before taking a hike around camp to take a habitat accessment hike to see if camp is a good place for the oppossum to live. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

 Days growing shorter, the air getting colder, and animals everywhere are preparing for the winter season. From squirrels stashing acorns, bears building dens and foxes getting fluffier, it's time to discover the amazing ways animals survive these colder days. young naturalists will engage in games, hands-on activities, and camp explorations to discover how animals at our camps prepare and survive winter without jackets and scarves. 

What to Expect: during the program participants will complete various games and activities aimed to help them understand the various survival strategies animals use to make it through the winter. Participants will also participate in a hike around camp to search for evidence of animals preparing for winter. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

"What does a bird, bee and bat have a in common? They are all at risk of disappearing forever! Extinction is the permanent loss of a species and it happens for many reasons. Join camp facilitators to explore how living things going extinct and how everyday changes in our behavior can help prevent this. Through hands-on activities, games and a camp service project participants will learn about locally threatened species and current efforts they can participate in to help keep these species present in our world. 

What to Expect: Participants will complete multiple games/activities to explore endangered species and the causes of extinction. Participants will also join in on a camp service project aimed to improve the habitat of camp. Projects could include: invasive species removal, nest box building, etc.

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org  

The woods are calling, are you ready to answer? 

Join us for an opportunity to help your youth gain the skills, confidence and resilience needed to enjoy the complexities of outdoor survival. Throughout the program participants will explore the steps of survival, learn how to access situations for safety, make informed decisions and develop a survival plan in an emergency. By the end of this program, participants will be ready to take a day trip in the woods and return safely. 

- What to Expect: This program takes place primarily outside. The instructor will use games and activities to cover topics like the 10 survival essentials, what to do when lost, how to avoid getting lost and leave no trace principles. this program includes a hike around camp with the opportunity for participants to practice shelter building. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

The woods are calling, are you ready to answer? 

Join us for an opportunity to help your youth gain the skills, confidence and resilience needed to enjoy the complexities of outdoor survival. Throughout the program participants will explore the steps of survival, learn how to access situations for safety, make informed decisions and develop a survival plan in an emergency. By the end of this program, participants will be ready to take a day trip in the woods and return safely. 

- What to Expect: This program takes place primarily outside. The instructor will use games and activities to cover topics like the 10 survival essentials, what to do when lost, how to avoid getting lost and leave no trace principles. this program includes a hike around camp with the opportunity for participants to practice shelter building. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Gather around the fire and join in with a Girl Scout tradition, CAMPFIRES! Participants will enjoy singing songs, playing games, doing skits and more, just like Girl Scouts who have come before. To bring the evening to a close everyone will get a chance to roast a marshmallow or two, you just need to bring graham crackers and chocolate if you want. We can't wait to see you there! 

- What to Expect: This program takes place outside at a fire circle. The facilitators will have the fire lit and maintain it throughout the program. The facilitators will guide the group through songs and games while also requesting assistance from the audience. Groups who have prepared a skit should let the facilitator know at the start of the program so time can be set aside for their performance. Towards the end of the program participants will be asked to find a marshmallow stick in the woods in order to roast a marshmallow. If troops and participants want they are welcome to bring s'more supplies (graham crackers and chocolate).

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

 Discover the wonder of the night sky by exploring the constellations and how ancient civilizations used the stars we see today for navigation, time keeping and myth-making. Through crafts, storytelling, and star exploration participants will turn the night sky into a place of adventure, discovery and inspiration--one star at a time. 

- What to Expect: This program takes place primarily outside. Participants will be asked to avoid using flashlights during the program to allow for better night vision. While many parts of the program will ask participants to stand during star gazing participants will be encouraged to sit or lay on the ground. Participants will engage in a series of activities meant to teach them about the constellations and stars before spending time (30-45 minutes) star gazing. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Do you know who wakes up when the sun goes down? Explore camp under the cover of darkness and learn about the animals who call it home. Discover how the physical and behavioral adaptations of animals like owls, bats and opposums allow them to thrive during the night. Through games and hands-on activities participants will pit their senses against these common nocturnal animals to see if you have what it takes to be a nocturnal animal. 

- What to Expect: This program takes participants into the woods at night. Flashlights are not allowed during the hike to ensure maximum night vision for participants and the maximum chance of encountering nocturnal animals. Appropriate caution is used at all times during the program to maintain safety. During the program participants will get chances to put their senses up against common nocturnal animals through various activities. Appropriate safety precautions are taken at all times. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Have you ever seen the milky way? Chances are no because as cities grow brighter, our stars grow dimmer. Join our camp facilitators to explore how the light pollution has changed our view of the universe and hidden the light of our stars. By participating in hands-on activities, sky observations and citizen science projects, discover how everyone can work together to help bring back the night sky. 

- What to Expect: This program takes place outside at night with limited lighting. Participants will be asked to avoid using flashlights during the program to make participating easier. Participants will learn about different types of light pollution, how we measure light pollution, measure the brightness of the night and explore ways to help reduce the impact of light on the environment. 

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

 Join our camp facilitators to discover the excitement of paddling while building confidence, working on teamwork and having a great time. This hands-on program introduces participants to the fundamentals of canoeing such as proper paddling technique, water safety and how to work together to move their boat. Everyone will get a chance to spend ample time on the water throughout the program.  

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: D,B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org 

Join our camp facilitators to explore the excitement of paddling while building confidence, discovering skills and having fun! This hands on program introduces participants to the fundamentals of kayaking such as proper technique and water safety. Everyone will get a chance to enjoy ample time on the water and explore the beauty our camps have to offer.

Date: Multiple Dates

Time: Multiple Sessions

Location: Varies

Levels: B,J,C,S,A

Badge/Patch Included? No

Contact: jharris@gscnc.org