Hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, wilderness survival, and more—camps that get kids outside exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Portland's location at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, with Mt. Hood to the east and the Coast Range to the west, makes it an ideal home base for outdoor adventure camps. Kids can paddle the Willamette in the morning and hike Forest Park in the afternoon. The outdoor camps here range from gentle nature exploration for young children to serious wilderness expeditions for teens. Many emphasize Leave No Trace principles and environmental stewardship alongside adventure skills. Local favorites like Trackers Earth have been teaching survival skills and nature connection for decades.
Most outdoor adventure camps start with a morning gathering where counselors outline the day's activities and safety protocols. Kids typically spend 4-6 hours outdoors engaged in hands-on activities like hiking, paddling, or learning wilderness skills.
Outdoor camps teach practical skills like navigation, fire safety, and first aid alongside adventure sports. Many Portland programs emphasize 'Leave No Trace' principles, helping kids become responsible stewards of natural spaces. Expect your child to gain confidence in unfamiliar environments and develop problem-solving abilities.
These camps involve significant physical activity. Kids should be comfortable walking 2-4 miles per day and spending extended time outdoors in varying weather. Most camps provide gear, but check what you need to bring—sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.
Smaller group sizes (typically 8-12 kids per counselor) create tight-knit experiences. Many kids form lasting friendships through shared adventures. Camps group children by age and ability, ensuring activities are appropriately challenging.
Portland's premier outdoor education program offering wilderness skills, nature connection, and adventure camps since 2004.
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Premium adventure sports camps teaching mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking with transportation to the region's best outdoor locations.
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OMSI's overnight coastal camp offering marine science, tide pool exploration, and beach adventures at Yaquina Bay in Newport.
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Paddlesport camps at the historic Willamette-Clackamas confluence, offering progressive kayak training from beginner to advanced.
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Whitewater kayaking camps in the Columbia Gorge with ACA-certified instructors, offering progressive levels from beginner to Class I-III rapids.
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