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Your OUTdoor adventure starts here.

Camp OUTdoors is dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth & young adults develop leadership skills, work in collaborative ways, and develop a strong sense of self and community at a transformative outdoor adventure programs.

2gether N Color Retreat: February 16-18
Session 1: July 7 – 13
Session 2: Aug 30 – Sept 2
Trans & Non-Binary Youth Retreat: November 15 – 17
OUTscouts Monthly Activities

Two people smiling under a rainbow flag
Two women posing with orange bandanas under a rainbow flag

Traditional outdoor program are not inclusive or celebratory of LGBTQ+ youth & young adults

From microaggressions to a lack of role models, traditional outdoor programs can create an unwelcoming environment, hindering LGBTQ+ youth’s ability to fully participate and enjoy the outdoors.

Heteronormative assumptions and lack of LGBTQ+ representation in traditional outdoor programs

Camp OUTdoors sorts cabins by age, uses campers’ chosen name and pronouns, and staffs programs with individuals who mirror the identities of our campers to ensure they see themselves reflected in the dedicated, compassionate, and welcoming staff who provide guidance and mentorship.

Outdoor programs are expensive

Camp OUTdoors camps, retreats, and activities are free, eliminating the cost barrier that prohibits many from attending other outdoor programs

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About Camp OUTdoors.

Camp OUTdoors co-creates a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ youth to explore the outdoors, build confidence, and connect with a supportive community. All programs of Camp OUTdoors are tuition-free and features two summer sessions packed with exciting activities, alongside two identity-specific retreats: the Trans & Non-Binary Youth Retreat and the 2gether N Color Retreat, celebrating LGBTQ+ youth of color.

Camp activities may include:

  • Archery
  • High Ropes
  • Silent Disco
  • Variety Show
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Hiking
  • Dance & Music
  • Field Day
  • Clothing Swap
  • and so much more!

Sample of workshop topics:

  • Gender identity & Expression
  • Public Speaking
  • LGBTQ+ History
  • Mapping Your Transition
  • Dream Interpretation
  • GSA Planning
  • Outdoor skills (campfire building, map skills, survival skills)
  • Activism and community organizing
  • Self-Defense
  • Sources of Strength
  • Creative Writing
  • How to be an Ally
  • Poetry
  • Tie-Dye
  • Retro Arts & Crafts
A young girl in a pink shirt and a black young adult in a yellow shirt smiling
Camp Outdoors youth posing on large granite boulders
LGBTQ youth, teens and young adults showing off their Squishmallows and stuffed animals. All of them are wearing matching purple Camp Outdoors t-shirts.

OUTscouts

Explore nature with the OUTscouts! This free, monthly adventure group offers hiking, camping, rock climbing, kayaking, and more. Beginners and those new to the outdoors welcome – join the fun!

  • Adventure
  • Community
  • Connection

Trail Guides & Counselor in Training (CIT)

Lead the adventure! Join the Trail Guides, the Camp OUTdoors youth leadership group or become a Counselor in Training (CIT). Develop leadership skills, mentor younger campers, and help co-create the camp magic.

  • Lead
  • Empower
  • Camp Redefined
Parents and trusted adults at Camp Outdoors holding a rainbow flag

Volunteers for Camp OUTdoors.

Volunteer at Camp OUTdoors and make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth. Create lasting memories while fostering a safe, supportive space for campers to explore, grow, and thrive.

  • Impact
  • Inspire
  • Empower
Wavy rainbow stripes on black background
Camp Outdoors attendees at a table eating and making crafts
Happy woman dancing and pointing at the camera with rainbow streamers hanging from a chainlink fence behind her
Youth standing around and dancing outside with large bongo drums
Three people sitting on a golf cart smiling and gesturing peace signs
boy in a dark room with glowing neon spot lights all over
Youth sitting in an aluminum farm basin filled with water and lined with a bright green pool noodle
Teen girl with rainbows painted on her cheeks
Camp Outdoor attendees standing next to a tall pine tree holding a wooden Camp Outdoors sign

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers!

We love Camp OUTdoors!

Learn more about Camp OUTdoors directly from the campers & volunteers who make this, the largest LGBTQ+ summer camp experience, absolutely life changing and magical.

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Let’s connect!

Contact us Apply to Camp OUTdoors

Meet the Employer

Join us in the Youth Center to learn about employers from different industries and the potential hiring opportunities they may have! Please come prepared with your questions for the employers! …

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