Dave Lydick
David is an experienced outdoor guide, seasoned chef, and passionate wilderness instructor who grew up and raised his family in the nearby Catskills. As a boy he loved lighting fires the hard way, cooking in smoke, sleeping out under the stars, and he still does....
Rachel Newman
Rachel is an avid naturalist and woods explorer who has a particular love for plant identification and foraging. She also enjoys birding, tracking, friction fire, crafting with natural materials, and sharing awesome sit spot stories! Rachel has always been happiest...
Catherine Charnoky
I’m thrilled to be returning to Primitive Pursuits this summer as an instructor! Growing up in Ithaca and attending Primitive Pursuits as a camper, this organization has been a meaningful part of my life and in part spark in my passion for environmentalism and...
Sora Takahashi
Sora has been part of primitive pursuits for almost eleven years. She grew up participating in the Thursday homeschool program and summer camps, which helped foster her love for the outdoors. Her first memory at primitives was the day her group went to the big creek...Jed Brensinger
Camp Director