Group size: 6-12 people
This supportive, hands-on event will walk you through the fundamentals of planning a camping trip. From preparing and packing to setting up your own camp in a campground. You'll build the skills to plan your own trip and explore the outdoors responsibly, safely, and comfortably.
Bogachiel State Park
(3.5 hour drive west of Seattle)
185983 US-101, Forks, WA 98331
Group trip includes:
- PNW Outdoor 101 Class (Required) An in-person learning & planning session packed with practical tips and tools to help you prepare for the trip and answer questions.
- Packing checklists
- Campsite at Bogachiel State Park
What you bring:
Your meals and snacks
Not sure what to bring? We can help. Our PNW Outdoor 101 class can cover a variety of outdoor meal options ranging from simple to fancy. You’ll leave with inspiration on how to prep and cook a meal outside that will fit your dietary preferences.
Your camp equipment, clothes
- Including tent, sleeping mat/bag, cooking supplies, clothes, etc.
- Don’t worry if you don’t have all (or any!) of the equipment. Our PNW Outdoor 101 class can cover options to rent, buy or source what you need.
What You'll Learn
Yes. Most people do.
No experience needed. These trips are designed for beginners.
You’ll learn the fundamentals ahead of time in the required PNW Outdoor 101 Class, then practice them during the trip with support available throughout the weekend.
Unless otherwise indicated on the trip page, expect low to moderate activity.
We choose campsites and trails close to parking, and lean towards trails with low elevation gain. Activities like hiking are optional, and you’re free to move at your own pace.
Bears and wildlife are part of the Pacific Northwest, but our beginner trips are in frontcountry areas near towns where encounters with dangerous wildlife are very unlikely.
You’re far more likely to see animals like raccoons, squirrels, deer, elk, and birds, who are not likely to approach you. We’ll teach you simple ways to avoid attracting wildlife while camping and hiking and what to do if you do encounter it.
Camping is about enjoying the outdoors, whatever that looks like for you.
We provide an instructor to support you with gear setup, meals, and any questions that come up. We also offer optional “mini camp lessons” before or after meals.
Outside of that, your time is your own. Once camp is set, you’re free to explore nearby trails, relax at camp, connect with others, or build your outdoor skills using our library of books, guides and gear.
That’s completely normal. If you’ve spent most of your life indoors, navigating or sleeping outside can feel intimidating.
This is a beginner-friendly, supported environment. You’ll learn the basics ahead of time, and an instructor is available throughout the trip so you’re never figuring things out alone.
We camp in established campgrounds with easy access to help, very different from remote backcountry trips. Everything is designed to ease you in gradually.
If you’re not ready for an overnight yet, consider starting with one of our in-city camp prep classes or local walks at Discovery Park.
Yes. You’re responsible for bringing your own gear.
We’ll make it easy. You’ll get a detailed gear list, plus guidance on where to rent, buy, or borrow what you need. You can also ask questions during the PNW Outdoor 101 Class or reach out anytime if you’re unsure.
You’ll be sleeping in a tent at an established campground with other campers. Amenities like bathrooms and power are typically a short walk from the campsite.
When signing up for a camp event, you can select your preference around sharing a tent or having your own tent.
You’ll plan, bring, and cook (if required) your own meals.
If you’re not sure what to pack or how to approach meals, this is something we can cover in The PNW Outdoor 101 Class.
Many campers choose to cook near each other and share the experience, but it’s not required.
This class ensures everyone arrives at the campsite prepared, and set up for a successful trip. It also helps us tailor support to your experience level. Lastly, it’s a good practice to not go camping with strangers ;)
If you’re planning on attending a camp trip, let the instructor know at the PNW Outdoor 101 Class! You’ll get extra information and care to ensure you’re prepped for the trip.
In the Pacific Northwest, rain is basically guaranteed at some point. We don’t let a little rain stop us.
If you’re not sure how to layer, or stay warm & dry, this is something we can discuss in the PNW Outdoor 101 Class.
In the case of severe or unsafe conditions, we’ll modify plans or cancel as needed.
We camp in established campgrounds that are accessible and close to nearby towns.
An instructor is present throughout the trip, and we carry emergency communication tools. We also have an Emergency Action Plan that will be shared when we get to the campsite.