STEM in the Sun: Outdoor Experiments for Curious Scouts
Summer is the perfect time to take learning outside — and Scouting is all about discovering how the world works through hands-on exploration. Whether you’re working on a STEM Nova award or just looking for a fun way to mix science and sunshine, these outdoor-friendly experiments are sure to spark curiosity and creativity in any Scout.
STEM in the outdoors helps Scouts connect the dots between science and the world they live in. These activities encourage curiosity, observation, and problem-solving — core parts of what Scouting is all about.
Here are a few easy, exciting experiments that require minimal supplies — and deliver maximum “wow!”
1. Solar S’Mores Oven
Topic: Renewable Energy
What You’ll Learn: How the Sun’s Rays Can be Harnessed to Cook Food
What You Need: Pizza Box, Aluminum Foil, Plastic Wrap, Black Construction Paper, Tape, Scissors, Marshmallows, Chocolate, and Graham Crackers
Build your own solar oven using the pizza box! Line it with foil and black paper to trap heat, create your s’more using the graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate, and let the sun do the cooking. It’s science you can eat — safely and deliciously.
2. Make a Homemade Thermometer
Topic: Temperature & Air Pressure
What You’ll Learn: How Heat Affects Liquids and Gases
What You Need: Clear Plastic Bottle, Water, Rubbing Alcohol, Food Coloring, Straw, and Clay or Modeling Dough
Mix water and alcohol, add color, and insert the straw. As the temperature changes outside, you’ll see the liquid in the straw rise or fall — just like in a real thermometer!
3. Create a Water Filter
Topic: Environmental Science
What You’ll Learn: How Natural Filtration Works
What You Need: Plastic Bottle Cut in Half, Sand, Gravel, Activated Charcoal, Coffee Filter, and Dirty Water (from a puddle or mud mixed in)
Layer the materials inside the bottle to simulate how water gets cleaned in nature. Then pour in your “dirty” water and watch it come out cleaner — a great conversation starter about conservation and clean water access.
4. DIY Compass
Topic: Magnetism & Navigation
What You’ll Learn: How Magnetic Fields Guide Direction
What You Need: Needle or Safety Pin, Magnet, Small Bowl of Water, and a Leaf
Magnetize the needle or safety pin by rubbing it with a magnet. Then, place it on a leaf and put it in water, and watch it point north! Combine this with a map activity or orienteering practice for a full Scouting adventure.
5. Color-Changing UV Beads
Topic: Ultraviolet Light
What You’ll Learn: How UV Rays Affect Our Environment
What You Need: UV-Sensitive Beads (available at craft stores), Pipe Cleaners or String, and Sunscreen for Testing
Have Scouts make bracelets or necklaces and watch them change color in sunlight. Test how sunscreen or shade affects the beads — a powerful visual reminder of sun safety!
Want more fun Scout activities? Visit our calendar to check out upcoming events and summer programs at Dan Beard Council!
