National Outdoor Achievement Awards
National Outdoor Achievement Awards may be earned by a Scout who “demonstrates both knowledge and experience” in various outdoor skills. There are six areas of emphasis: Adventure, Aquatics, Camping, Conservation, Hiking, and Riding.
Each segment requires the Scout to earn the First Class rank, earn one or more relevant Merit Badges, and gain extensive experience in the subject area “under the auspices of the Boy Scouts of America.”
National Medal for Outdoor Achievement
The National Medal for Outdoor Achievement was introduced in 2010 as “the highest recognition that a Scout can earn for exemplary achievement, experience, and skill in multiple areas of outdoor endeavor.”
The National Medal for Outdoor Achievement requires the Scout to complete rigorous requirements including earning at least three National Outdoor Achievement Awards, becoming a Leave No Trace Trainer, becoming certified in Wilderness First Aid, and leading various outdoor activities.