Outdoor Skills Day Camp 2025

Held at Buttonwood Nature Center, Waynesboro, Pa.

Do you have what it takes to be an outdoor survivalist?

Area kids will learn about outdoor survival skills during a new summer day camp on Thursday, July 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Offered by Buttonwood Nature Center, the camp will be held at the nature center, 10356 Amsterdam Road in Waynesboro, Pa.

“During the camp, students will learn some essential outdoor survivalist skills, like tying knots, orienteering, and other skills you can use if you ever get lost in the woods,” said Shawna Kauffman, Buttonwood’s director of education.

Specific activities during the camp include learning basic orienteering skills using a compass, with a short hike afterwards to practice the newly-learned skills. Kids will also learn to build a lean-to shelter, track animals, create a safe campfire, conduct a water filtration experiment, and more.  

Campers will learn to minimize their impact on the natural environment, following Leave No Trace principles.

“There are seven principles of Leave No Trace,” Kauffman said, “and they apply to anyone spending time in the outdoors, whether it’s a nature center, a park—or your own backyard. The principles are designed to ensure that natural areas are left as visitors found them for others to enjoy.”

Participants should come prepared in weather-appropriate clothing that can get dirty and wet, with closed-toed shoes. Bring water, two snacks, and a packed lunch. Personal sunscreen and insect repellant are also recommended.

For students ages 7–12. Camp fee: $50 for members of Buttonwood Nature Center/The Institute, and $55 general public.

Underwriting support is from our Today’s Horizon Fund contributors: The Nora Roberts Foundation; the late Alma W. Oyer; Marge Kiersz; APX Enclosures; Don Gibe and Nancy Erlanson; and the family of the late Carolyn Terry Eddy, with daughters Connie Fleagle & Kim Larkin.

Registration form below.