With the outcome-based curriculum of traditional club, children learn to work and play together, and become involved in service projects, which help them become responsible citizens concerned about their communities and society. Camp Fire USA clubs meet a minimum of once a month with many meeting weekly. Meetings are generally led by two or more adults who have volunteered their time and skills and are held after school or on evenings or weekends.

Camp Fire USA club and small group programs have four important qualities:

• Progression: As the children get older, they perform more complex and challenging activities. These activities advance from developing caring, confident youth in elementary students, to developing leadership skills in teens.
 
• Inclusiveness: The club and small group program welcomes all youth and adults regardless of race, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation or any other aspect of diversity.
 
• Partnership between youth and adults: Youth and adults together set the direction of Camp Fire USA activities and accomplishments. They work together in developmental activities and leadership roles.
 
• Rewards and recognition: The club and small group programs are geared toward recognizing accomplishments and skill building, helping both adult volunteers and youth build self-esteem and pride.

Curriculum for each level is progressive, outcome-based and centered around five trails: Trail to Knowing Me, Trail to Family and Community, Trail to Creativity, Trail to the Environment and Trail to the Future.

The Starflight level is designed for children in kindergarten through second grade. The curricula can be used in traditional small-group settings or adapted for after school programs, such as Community Family Club. Youth learn responsibility, decision making and other valuable skills through a variety of projects centered on five trails. Youth participate in projects focusing on family, nature and the outdoors, safety, science, health, community service, art, music and drama. They learn while working together and having fun. All projects are designed to fit the abilities and interests of this age level. Recognition is an important component of the Starflight program, and youth receive emblems or certificates after completing a project.

The Adventure level is designed for youth in third, fourth and fifth grades. Again, the curricula can be used in traditional small-group settings or adapted for after school programs, such as Community Family Club. Youth complete a variety of activities centered on five trails. Each trail has many exciting activities and topics. Adventure members can choose activities to do with their groups, families or by themselves. Activities are progressive in nature and require the youth to sharpen living skills, make choices and plan activities.

Adventure members learn to work and play together, while developing planning and decision-making skills, as well as skills related to their individual interests. Recognition in the form of beads, emblems and certificates is given after a project or activity is completed, which helps build self-esteem and pride.

The Horizon program is designed for youth in ninth, 10th, 11th and 12th grades. The Camp Fire USA Horizon program is different for each member. At this level, teens are encouraged to participate in the activities as individual members or with other group members. In the Horizon program, teens are given the opportunity to create and build their own horizons, or their own futures. "Highlight" activities are designed to examine ideas, values, morals and experiences. Four "Reflection" projects provide focus for teens on self, choices and decisions, future goals and planning, and self-reliance skills. Teens typically begin working toward the Wohelo Award in Horizon.

The Wohelo Award is Camp Fire USA's highest honor in the small group program.  This award is earned by a dedicated few who complete four "Reflections" that demonstrate a commitment to Camp Fire USA and advocate for improved social conditions.