Who can participate in the Merit Badge Program?

The program is designed primarily for scouts, but is open to all youth interested in earning merit badges.

Do participants need prior experience with trains or first aid?

No prior experience is needed; certified counselors guide all activities step-by-step.

Are there age limits for the program?

The program is best suited for youth aged 11–17, but younger participants may join with parental approval.

Is the program accessible for participants with disabilities?

The museum provides accommodations; please contact them directly to discuss specific needs.

Can families or groups book private sessions?

Yes, the museum offers private bookings tailored for groups and families for a personalized experience.

What should participants bring with them?

Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a notebook for taking notes are recommended.

Merit Badge Program at Southern California Railway Museum

Experience a unique blend of education and adventure with the Southern California Railway Museum's expanded Merit Badge Program in Perris, California. Perfect for scouts and outdoor enthusiasts, this program offers hands-on activities like operating a locomotive, practicing first aid, exploring citizenship principles, learning fire safety, and capturing striking photographs. Each session is guided by certified counselors ensuring every participant gains valuable skills while having fun in a safe, supportive environment. The museum itself provides an interactive backdrop rich with history and plenty of opportunity to engage with vintage rail equipment. Whether you're aiming to advance in your scouting journey or seeking an engaging educational experience, this program combines learning with real-world adventure. The location’s warm climate and extensive facilities make it ideal for year-round participation, and families or groups can enjoy private bookings tailored to their needs. Beyond the badges, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for rail history, safety skills, and community values.

About Southern California Railway Museum

Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California, preserves a large collection of historic locomotives, railcars, and streetcars across nearly 100 acres of restored railyards and depots.

The museum offers narrated hosted tours led by knowledgeable docents, train and trolley rides every weekend, and curated exhibits that highlight regional rail history.

The museum serves as a premier location for photo and film shoots, providing diverse backdrops from vintage depots to industrial yards and an extensive roster of historic equipment. Production teams book the site for creative shoots and location filming because of its variety of authentic rail settings.

Community events and specialty programs are a core part of the museum’s calendar. Annual highlights include the Antique Truck Show, KCBS BBQ competitions such as BBQ Boots and Brew, Perris Appreciation Day with free rides for residents, and the Fall Victorian Tea hosted by the Harvey Girl Historical Society. The museum’s Business Class departures and Carhouse 4 rental offer unique options for private events and special occasions.

Educational offerings include the expanded Merit Badge Program with certified counselors and hands-on activities, plus the Run One Program that lets participants operate electric streetcars and locomotives under engineer supervision. The museum emphasizes safety, preservation, and historical accuracy while providing memorable, hands-on experiences for families, scouts, photographers, and event organizers.

Located in Perris, the museum is accessible to Southern California communities and supports local tourism and education. Staff and volunteers maintain exhibits and coordinate bookings for tours, events, and film projects to ensure smooth operations daily.