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Basic Outdoor Skills Camp for Youth

Adventure Ready

Adventure Ready 2025 logo

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Our four-day summer camp is specifically designed for youth aged 9-13, focusing on developing essential skills for outdoor recreation activities. Learn valuable skills such as navigation using maps, compasses, and GPS units, as well as important safety protocols and excursion preparation techniques.

Our experienced instructors will guide you in exploring exciting career opportunities and educational requirements related to natural resources in Southwest Virginia. They’ll also discover the importance of environmental protection and the principles of Leave No Trace, learning how to apply these principles in real-life outdoor scenarios.

Through a variety of engaging outdoor activities, you’ll gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and develop a deeper appreciation for nature. A fun-filled field trip is also included as part of the camp experience! Our goal is to inspire responsible outdoor participation, foster community involvement, and empower you to become an ambassador for promoting outdoor recreation.

Gain life-changing experiences, knowledge, and skills that will stay with you forever. Be equipped to embark on new adventures, leading to a lifelong love of the outdoors and a healthier, more active lifestyle. Don’t miss this opportunity for adventure and to gain a deeper connection with nature. Sign up today!

For additional information, please contact us by:
Phone: 276-964-7277
Email: beit@sw.edu

Learn Basic Outdoor Skills

  • Using a Map, Compass, and GPS
  • Land Navigation with Compass and GPS
  • Geocaching with GPS
  • Principles of Leave No Trace
  • Trip Preparation and Planning
    (10 Essentials and Rule of 3)
  • Typing Knots and Knot Applications
    (Making a Survival Bracelet)
  • Fundamentals of Archery
  • Pitching a Tent and Constructing a Shelter
  • Water Purification and Fire Building
  • Wilderness Survival and Finding North

Camp Schedule

Download the 2025 Camp Flyer

On-Campus

  • 8:00 Introduction and Welcome.
  • 8:15 to 9:30 Session 1, Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Preparation, Planning, & Gear
    • 10 Essentials, Rule of 3
  • 9:45 to 12:00 Session 2, Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Map & Compass, Parts & Navigation
  • 12:00-12:45 Lunch (Career Opportunities)
  • 1:00 – 3:55 Session 3, Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Map & Compass Continued.
    • Finding North & Fire Building
  • 4:00 Dismiss for the Day.

On-Campus

  • 8:00 Getting Ready for the Day.
  • 8:15 to 9:30 Session 1, Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Principles of Leave Not Trace
  • 9:45 to 12:00 Session 2. Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • GPS, Land Navigation, and Geocaching.
  • 12:00-12:45 Lunch (Education Pathways)
  • 1:00 – 3:55 Session 3, Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Water & Water Purification
    • Knots and Knot Applications
  • 4:00 Dismiss for the Day.

On-Campus

  • 8:00 Getting Ready for the Day.
  • 8:15 to 12:00 Session 1
    • Archery Fundamentals
  • 12:00-12:45 Lunch (Davis Hall Programs)
  • 1:00 – 3:55 Session 2, Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Wilderness Survival
    • Pitching a Tent and Tarp Shelter
    • Making a Survival Bracelet
  • 4:00 Dismiss for the Day.

Field Trip

  • 8:00 Getting Ready for the Day.
  • 8:30 to 3:30 Lake Witten:
    • Kayaking, hiking, geocaching
    • Basic Outdoor Skills:
    • Kayaking and Paddling
    • Throwing a rope bag
  • 4:00 Award Certificate and Dismiss for the Day.

Adventure Ready Registration Form

Use the form below to register and pay online. Download the print and mail form.

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All Southwest locations are CLOSED on Friday, February 21, due to inclement weather.
Day & Evening Classes are canceled.

Details