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The Order of the Arrow (OA) is the Scouting Brotherhood of honor campers. It is a society of Boy Scouts and Explorers that function as a part of the regular camping program of the Boy Scouts of America. Its foremost purpose is to promote and enrich Scout camping. Elements of Indian traditions are used in the OA ceremonies for dramatic effect. The OA members in a local Scout Council form a Lodge (used as in Indian traditions of hunting or council lodge). One becomes a member, not so much for what he has done, but for what he is expected to do in the future.

The purpose of the OA is to recognize those campers-Scouts, Explorers, and Scouters-who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their lives and by such recognition, cause other campers to conduct themselves in such a manner as to warrant recognition. It is to develop and maintain camping traditions and spirit, to promote Scout camping, which reaches its greatest effectiveness as a part of the Unit's camping program, and to strengthen the District and Council programs both year-around and summer camp, as directed by the camping and activities committee of the Council. Finally, its purpose includes crystallization of the Scout habit of helpfulness into a life of leadership in cheerful service to others.

The OA was founded in the summer of 1915 by the directors of Treasure Island, the Philadelphia Council Scout Camp. It grew out of the desire to emphasize that the good Scout camper is not only proficient in the skills of Scoutcraft, but also practices the principles of the Scout Oath and Law. It was intended to make these Scout principles more effective in the lives of Scout campers. It focuses particular attention on cheerful service and brotherhood to the boy.

The Order of the Arrow is run by the Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts and Explorers. Adults serve only in advisory roles.