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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 program.

2gether N Color Retreat: Feb 16-18, 2025
Session 1: July 2025
Session 2: July 2025
Trans & Non-Binary Youth Retreat: Nov 15-17, 2025
OUTscouts Monthly Activities

Group of Camp Outdoors attendees holding a Campchella sign
Camp Outdoor youth sitting, wearing matching white and yellow tie-dyed t-shirts holding a wooden Camp Outdoors sign

Traditional outdoor programs 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

one·n·ten has provided some of the most life changing support, from resources that help get my needs met in times of uncertainty to knowing that there are people who love me. I am so grateful for one·n·ten and each person who works here for believing in me.

Elliot, 19 He/Ze/They

Mesa one·n·ten is like a second home to me. It was the first satellite I attended when I began my journey with one·n·ten in 2017 and has only become more special to me since reopening from the COVID closure.

Artemis, 24 He/Him/It/Its

one·n·ten makes a significant difference in my life by providing a supportive environment where I feel accepted, understood, and valued. Through their programs and resources, they offer a sense of community, guidance, and empowerment, which helps me navigate challenges, build self-confidence, and foster a sense of belonging.

Malcom, 21 He/Him

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.

Three youth members posing at Camp Outdoors

Camp OUTdoors History

Born from a desire to ensure LGBTQ+ youth have access to safe and inclusive spaces in the outdoors, Camp OUTdoors is the oldest and largest, free LGBTQ+ summer camp program.

Now in its 17th year, Camp OUTdoors has evolved to include 2 summer sessions, 2 identity-specific retreats, and the OUTscouts, all of which have welcomed youth & volunteers from across the country.

  • Growth
  • Celebratory
  • Welcoming

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
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!

Let’s connect!

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