We value your voice! With your direct input, Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT) will create a Backpacking Camp program that introduces young people and families to camping/backpacking in Monterey County. Spending time in nature provides many physical, emotional, and mental health benefits. Overnight youth programs that have a strong nature component have been shown to help young people develop more confidence and self-esteem; improve social, leadership, decision-making, and adaptability skills; and develop a greater sense of responsibility and belonging. Despite the many benefits and stunning landscapes found in Monterey County, not everyone in our community can easily access and enjoy nature recreationally. For many of us, the lack of transportation, gear, familiarity with wilderness experiences, and/or friends who also like camping act as barriers to enjoying recreational camping.
The goals of this new camp are to increase young peoples’ ability to safely plan and enjoy a multi-day camping or backpacking trip, and provide space to explore personal resilience, goals, and develop leadership skills. Led by experienced staff with first aid training, this 4- or 5-day overnight experience would take place at BSLT’s Mitteldorf Preserve. Aimed towards young people ages 15+, the camp would include lessons in navigation, decision making, gear maintenance, and natural and cultural history. All gear, meals, and transportation would be provided.
Help us make this program a success by telling us about your outdoor experiences and what you would want from an experience like this, either as a participant or a parent/guardian of a camper. Please take 8 minutes to complete this 15-question survey.
