Scout campfires are all about fun, camaraderie, and tradition. Singing around a campfire is a key part of the Scouting experience, creating memories that last a lifetime. Here are 10 Scout campfire songs that are perfect for Scouts of all ages, from the timeless classics to the fun and interactive.
1. “The Campfire’s Burning”
This traditional Scout song is a classic opener for any campfire. Its simple, round-style melody makes it a perfect warm-up song to get everyone in the mood for singing. The lyrics are easy to learn, and its tune is welcoming and familiar.
The campfire's burning, the campfire's burning, Draw nearer, draw nearer, In the gloaming, in the gloaming, Come sing and be merry.
2. “Kumbaya”
“Kumbaya” is a spiritual song that has been sung around campfires for generations. Its repetitive lyrics and melody make it easy for everyone to join in, promoting a sense of unity and peace.
Kumbaya, my Lord, kumbaya, Kumbaya, my Lord, kumbaya, Kumbaya, my Lord, kumbaya, Oh, Lord, kumbaya.
3. “Ging Gang Goolie”
This nonsensical but fun song is a hit among younger Scouts. Its silly lyrics and actions are sure to bring laughter and joy to the campfire. The song, originally created by the founder of Scouting, Robert Baden-Powell, is a staple at Scout gatherings worldwide.
Ging gang goolie goolie goolie goolie watcha, Ging gang goo, ging gang goo. Ging gang goolie goolie goolie goolie watcha, Ging gang goo, ging gang goo. Hayla, oh hayla shayla, oh hayla shayla, shayla, oh-ho, Hayla, oh hayla shayla, oh hayla shayla, shayla, oh. Shally wally, shally wally, shally wally, shally wally, Oompah, oompah, oompah, oompah.
4. “I Love the Mountains”
A song that celebrates the beauty of nature, “I Love the Mountains” is a great fit for Scout campfires. Its catchy “boom-dee-ah-da” chorus is infectious, and Scouts often enjoy adding their own verses.
I love the mountains, I love the rolling hills, I love the flowers, I love the daffodils, I love the fireside, When the lights are low, Boom-dee-ah-da, boom-dee-ah-da, Boom-dee-ah-da, boom-dee-ah-da.
5. “On Top of Spaghetti”
A humorous take on the classic “On Top of Old Smoky,” this song is always a favorite. Its funny lyrics about a meatball rolling away capture the imaginations of Scouts and bring smiles all around.
On top of spaghetti, all covered with cheese, I lost my poor meatball, when somebody sneezed. It rolled off the table, and onto the floor, And then my poor meatball, rolled out of the door.
6. “The Quartermaster’s Store”
This song is known for its endless verses, each describing various characters or items found in the Quartermaster’s Store. It’s great for creativity, as Scouts can come up with their own verses, making each rendition unique.
There are rats, rats, as big as alley cats, At the store, at the store, There are rats, rats, as big as alley cats, At the Quartermaster's store. (My eyes are dim, I cannot see, I have not brought my specs with me.)
7. “Michael Row the Boat Ashore”
A beautiful and simple song, “Michael Row the Boat Ashore” has a spiritual and uplifting melody. It’s a great choice for creating a calm and reflective atmosphere around the campfire.
Michael row the boat ashore, Hallelujah, Michael row the boat ashore, Hallelujah. Sister help to trim the sail, Hallelujah, Sister help to trim the sail, Hallelujah.
8. “A Ram Sam Sam”
A fun and interactive song, “A Ram Sam Sam” involves hand motions and speed, making it a lively addition to the campfire. Scouts love the challenge of keeping up with the actions as the song gets faster.
A ram sam sam, a ram sam sam, Guli guli guli guli guli ram sam sam, A ram sam sam, a ram sam sam, Guli guli guli guli guli ram sam sam. A rafi, a rafi, Guli guli guli guli guli ram sam sam, A rafi, a rafi, Guli guli guli guli guli ram sam sam.
9. “Land of the Silver Birch”
This Canadian folk song is beloved by Scouts for its beautiful melody and lyrics that pay tribute to the wilderness. It’s particularly poignant for campfires in natural settings.
Land of the silver birch, home of the beaver, Where still the mighty moose wanders at will. Blue lake and rocky shore, I will return once more, Boom-did-di-ah-da, Boom-did-di-ah-da, Boom-did-di-ah-da, Boom.
10. “Taps”
Traditionally sung at the close of the evening, “Taps” is a solemn and reflective song. It’s a fitting way to end a Scout campfire, signaling the end of the day and a time for quiet reflection.
Day is done, gone the sun, From the lakes, from the hills, from the sky, All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.
These 10 Scout campfire songs range from the silly to the serene, offering something for every mood and moment around the fire. Singing together not only entertains but also strengthens the bonds within the troop, fostering a sense of community and tradition. So gather around the campfire, lift your voices, and enjoy the timeless tradition of Scout songs!
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