Backpacking and Camping Clinics in Northwest Arkansas

I received my 2015 Adventure Mail from Lewis & Clark Outfitters in Northwest Arkansas today and it has a lot of great information about upcoming backpacking and camping clinics. All but one are free. The clinics cover cooking, backpacking, first aid, navigation and more.

Here’s their rundown of what’s being offered and when:

Intro to Backpacking
Springdale location: Tuesday, February 10, 6:30 p.m.
Rogers location: Thursday, February 12, 6:30 p.m.
This clinic covers the basics of overnight backcountry camping. Discussion includes backpack fitting, essential gear, how to properly pack your backpack, and the best trails Arkansas has to offer. Outline provided.
Cost: no charge

Backcountry Cooking
Springdale location: Tuesday, February 17, 6:30 p.m.
Rogers location: Thursday, February 19, 6:30 p.m.
Learn all about the various types of stoves and cookware, what food tastes best on the trail, and how to maintain your energy level on long hikes. Outline Provided.
Cost: no charge

Water Filtration
Springdale location: Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 p.m.
Rogers location: Thursday, February 26, 6:30 p.m.
Stay healthy and hydrated on the trail. Learn from experienced outfitters about the difference between filtration and purification. Explore the proper techniques of treating your drinking water in the backcountry. Outline provided.
Cost: no charge

Wilderness First Aid
Springdale location: Tuesday, March 3, 6:30 p.m.
Rogers location: Thursday, March 5, 6:30 p.m.
Cody Bennett (Certified EMT) instructs you regarding how to properly treat common injuries in the backcountry. *Not a certification course
Cost: no charge

Land Navigation
Springdale location: Tuesday, March 10, 6:30 p.m.
Rogers location: Thursday, March 12, 6:30 p.m.
Learn how to read a topographic map, how to utilize a compass, and how to use both of these to make sure you never get lost in the woods. Outline provided.
Cost: no charge

Orienteering Course at Devil’s Den State Park
Saturday, March 14, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: Devil’s Den State Park
This is a hands-on training course at Devil’s Den State Park. Learn how to use a map and compass to plot a course or how to find yourself when lost. Meet at the pavilion in front of Lee Creek Dam. Bring your own sack lunch, weather appropriate hiking clothes, and plenty of water. You will hike about 5 miles.
Cost: $50 for course, compass, UTM grid reader, and waterproof map or $30 for just the course.
Sign Up: Call the Springdale store – 479-756-1344 – to sign up or for more info.