Scouting Scuba Programs for Youth and Families

OCD Divers has supported Scouting America scuba programs since 2009. Training is led by a long term Scouting America adult leader and registered merit badge counselor. Programs are trustworthy, structured, and predictable for youth and families. Training takes place in a private pool and controlled lake environments. Youth Protection policies are followed at all times. Parents and siblings are welcome at every session, and two deep leadership is maintained.

We offer year round local diving and camping options for Scouts and families. From May through October we train at The Scuba Ranch, where we have our own private lakefront pavilion with shaded space, a fire ring, and plenty of room for tents that units may use for campouts. From November through April we train at Balmorhea State Park, where Scout units can camp on site just steps from the water.

Many families train with us to prepare for Sea Base scuba treks. Our programs meet all Scouting America scuba policies, and Sea Base accepts Open Water certifications from any RSTC recognized agency, including SDI. Families can review trek details at the official Sea Base website.

Why Families Dive Together

Many parents and siblings choose to dive alongside their Scouts. Training together builds confidence, reinforces skills, and creates shared experiences that last long after the program ends. Family participation also helps youth feel supported throughout their scuba journey.

Entry Level Programs

Snorkeling Classes for ages four and up. Future Buddies for ages eight to ten. Scuba Discovery for ages ten and up. Open Water Diver for ages ten and up. Ages 10–11 complete Open Water through a private class.

Advanced or Group Programs

Scuba Campout. Private group classes. Weeknight and weekend programs. Refreshers. Referral option.

Open Water Certification Options

Scheduled Weekender classes are for ages 12 and up. Ages 10–11 may complete certification through a private class. Families may also choose private scheduling for flexibility or mixed age groups.

Complete your entire certification in one efficient weekend through our Weekender format at The Scuba Ranch or Balmorhea State Park. Scuba Campouts. Weeknight and weekend programs. Private schedules for units.

Adventures for Scouts

Local and regional scuba adventures. Pavilion access for units at The Scuba Ranch. Discounted gear rental for certified Scouts. Valhalla Missile Silo for older youth.

Family members ten and up may join any youth program, and many parents and siblings choose to certify alongside their Scouts.

The Scuba Diving Merit Badge is included at no extra charge with Open Water certification. Scouts must hold the Swimming Merit Badge and meet swim requirements. Already certified Scouts may complete the badge at no cost. Christopher is a registered Scouting America Merit Badge Counselor. Parents and siblings who choose to certify often complete the Merit Badge requirements together, creating a shared achievement the whole family remembers.

Required Personal Gear

Mask, snorkel, boots, and fins are required for Open Water classes. These items must be rented or purchased through OCD Divers to ensure proper fit and performance. Personal gear packages are already discounted as bundled sets, and divers may also mix and match required personal gear in person with a 25% discount during shop hours. Gear packages and tank rental options are available through our Gear Packages and Add‑On Options.

Included Gear

Rental use of BCD, regulators, dive computer, and wetsuit is provided at no cost.

Scout Discounts

15% off classes for Scouting America youth, Crews, and Ships. 10% off for family members. 50% off Scuba Discovery. 10% off gear purchases.

Gear Pickup and Shipping

Families may pick up gear during published shop hours, have it delivered to the lake, or request shipping for out‑of‑town Scouts.

Preparing for Sea Base Scuba Treks

Families preparing for a Sea Base trek need the same personal gear required for Open Water classes. All required items meet Sea Base standards.

Knowledge development takes place through eLearning. Pool sessions are held in Colleyville year round. Lake dives take place at The Scuba Ranch from May through October and at Balmorhea State Park from November through April.

Many families camp and dive together during weekend programs, making training weekends a memorable experience for youth, parents, and siblings.

Register in Person

Families may visit the shop during published hours to register for any class.

Register Online Using Scout Discounts

Families who prefer to register online must complete all five steps.

Step One: Choose a class date

Families choose a class with available space on the calendar.

Step Two: Purchase the class through the Scouting Scuba product group

Discounts apply only when purchasing through the Scouting Scuba product group.

Step Three: Complete the Diver Information Form

Each diver must complete the form. Youth need their own email address for digital forms and eLearning. The form is available here: Diver Information Form.

Step Four: Complete all digital signatures and eLearning

Both the minor and the parent must sign required documents. eLearning must be completed before class.

Step Five: Email the shop with diver names

Families email instructor@ocddivers.com with diver names so they can be placed on the roster.

Families with 10–11 year olds must choose a private class. Our team can help coordinate schedules for parents and siblings.

OCD Divers offers modern online sign up, flexible scheduling, and daily support for families. Private classes are available for ages 10–11 and for families who prefer a customized schedule.

What ages can participate?
Snorkeling begins at age four, Future Buddies at eight, and Scuba Discovery and Open Water at age ten. Ages 10–11 complete Open Water through a private class. Weekender classes are for ages 12 and up.

Can 10–11 year olds join the Weekender class?
No. Weekender classes are for ages 12 and up. Ages 10–11 may complete their full certification through a private class, which is the correct option for younger Scouts and mixed‑age families.

Do Scouts need to know how to swim?
Yes. Youth must be comfortable in the water and able to swim at the Swimmer level. OCD Divers is Council authorized to conduct the swim test.

Can families participate?
Yes. Anyone ten and up can train and certify together. Many families — including parents and siblings — choose to complete the entire program as a shared experience.

Can parents and siblings get certified with their Scout?
Absolutely. Many parents and siblings choose to certify together. Diving as a family reinforces skills and creates shared experiences.

I’m already certified. Can I go through the full class with my Scout?
Yes. Certified parents and siblings are welcome to complete the entire Open Water class alongside their Scout as a structured refresher. This option is available for $299.99, and many families choose it so everyone can train and practice skills together from the beginning.

What gear is required?
All divers need a mask, snorkel, boots, and fins. These items must be rented or purchased through OCD Divers to ensure proper fit and performance. Personal gear packages are already discounted as bundled sets, and divers may also mix and match required personal gear in person with a 25% discount during shop hours. Gear packages and tank rental options are available through our Gear Packages and Add‑On Options.

What gear is included?
Rental use of BCD, regulators, dive computer, and wetsuit is provided at no cost.

Do you offer discounts for Scouts and families?
Yes. 15% off classes for Scouting America youth, Crews, and Ships. 10% off for family members. 50% off Scuba Discovery. 10% off gear purchases.

Can out‑of‑town units participate?
Yes. Many units travel from across Texas and surrounding states.

Do Sea Base programs accept SDI certifications?
Yes. Sea Base accepts Open Water certifications from any RSTC recognized training agency, including SDI.

Does Sea Base require PADI certification?
No. Scouting America recognizes all RSTC agencies including SDI, SSI, NAUI, PSS, RAID, and PADI.

How do we register?
Entry level programs are available online. Advanced programs, private classes, and group arrangements are handled directly through the shop.