Latest News, Stories + Activities
Join us here for stories from the forest, our latest news and periodic videos, and activities you can do at home.
We’re Hiring
Looking to spend your summer connecting with like-minded people and youth in the outdoors? Consider working in the woods with us!
Get ready for Summer 2022!
As we look forward to summer (our third since the pandemic began) we look forward with confidence. We’ve learned that we can run camps that meet our high expectations for nature immersive fun – safely. We’ve heard how transformative these experiences are from parents (and kids).
The Homeschool Stories Continue…
The weather is cooling but that hasn’t stopped the homeschool flocks from enjoying every minute outside.
Fall Morning with the Homeschool Flocks
I was fortunate to get to spend my morning with the Redwing Blackbirds today, and wow did they have a lot of energy!
Summer 2021 Comes to a Close
Let me set the scene: It’s the last day of summer camp and a slight chill in the air brings color to my cheeks and a little sting to my ears.
August 16-20, 2021
With just two weeks to go, we are savoring every moment in the woods together. Here are a few shots from the fun we had during week 8 of summer 2021. Sadly, this is the last week we have our photographers Amy and Joe on board.
August 9-13, 2021
Week 7 is already here and gone as summer seems to fly by in a whirl of friendships, community, epic games, nature crafts, and non-stop exploration!
Now Hiring: Client Services Manager
We are in search of an energetic and customer-focused client services manager to join our close-knit nature connection team.
August 2 – 6, 2021
Week six had campers back up at 4-H Acres doing everything from creating outdoor culinary delights to tanning hides.
July 26 – 30, 2021
Week 5 is always an adventure as we vacate 4-H Acres to make room for the 4-H Youth Fair! Some campers traveled all over this week with River Scouts while others were up on West Hill or in Ellis Hollow.
July 19-23, 2021
Another beautiful week in the woods.
July 12-16, 2021
Week three flew by in a blink of sun and rain.
Activities
Tools of Mentoring
Here are some of the tools of mentoring we use when working with young people. You can use them too.
Flaming Bundle Challenge
Fire is a wonderful teacher. This is an activity we often do, even with first-time groups. As you read this activity, identify the core routines participants would be using. What mentoring tools could you use?
Fall Recipes from the Archive
This post originally appeared on the discontinued Primitive Pursuits online ‘Wilderness Mentoring Guild’ on October 23rd, 2007.
Dandelion Harvesting
Check out this video from Sophia about how to harvest dandelions and turn them into delicious and nutritious muffins!
Harvesting Violets
Here’s another fun and informative video from Sophia on harvesting violets and turning them into vinegar, infused honey, and violet sugar! Tune in to learn how.