R.A.D. Camps began in 2008 and is based out of beautiful Bend, Oregon. All adventures are in the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests, with occasional state park adventures. R.A.D. Guides have several years of experience working with youth and are passionate about teaching them how to explore the great outdoors while being "impact free."
R.A.D. Camps provides an opportunity for kids to enjoy learning about the environment - “No Child Left Inside!” We enjoy utilizing this slogan to help promote the No Child Left Inside Act passed by congress in 2009. This act was passed to help get more kids outside and reconnected with nature.
R.A.D. guides monitor children to ensure their safety while letting them play freely amongst themselves.
In the words of author Richard Louv (2008), in his book Last Child in the Woods, “…adult concern for, and behavior related to, the environment derives directly from participating in such ‘wild nature activities’ as playing independently in the woods, hiking, fishing...before the age of eleven.” Louv cites numerous studies and anecdotal observations showing how important “free play” and “natural play time” are for children, while highlighting the benefits obtained from these activities.
R.A.D. campers enjoy the outdoors and leave nature as they found it. Our programs teach kids to appreciate and respect the environment while practicing "Leave No Trace" principles.
R.A.D. Sprouts is our summer day camp program for kids 4-6 years old. Children learn about nature while playing freely outdoors under the supervision of a R.A.D. Guide & Bend Forest School Teacher. Adventures are held at local state parks Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
As a GIT (Guide In Training), kids will take on more responsibility through group management, situation assessment, and conflict resolution. They will work directly with their Lead Guide to ensure that all R.A.D. campers have a great day outside.
GITs help facilitate activities such as swimming, building forts, or playing games,
all while being an extra set of eyes and ears for the Lead Guide.