NORTHERN STAR SCOUTING | Where Nature Meets Education: OLC

Build confidence and resilience at Base Camp’s newest Outdoor Learning Center (OLC). Just $25/student for a 2-day, 1-night immersive experience, only 30 minutes from the city. Real-world skills start here!


Adventure Awaits at the Outdoor Learning Center!
Located just 30 minutes from the Twin Cities, Northern Star Scouting’s Outdoor Learning Center (OLC) offers students grades 3+ an immersive 2-day, 1-night weekday camping experience. Our programs move the classroom outside, allowing students to “learn and live differently” through hands-on discovery.

Why Choose the OLC?
Guided by expert staff, our curriculum focuses on building confidence, resilience, and real-world skills:

  • Action: Rock climbing, bouldering, archery, and orienteering.
  • Skills: Fire building (chemistry and safety), wilderness survival, and navigation.
  • Growth: Team challenges that foster leadership, bravery, and empathy.
  • Stewardship: Immersive nature exploration that encourages environmental responsibility.

Program Highlights

  • Navigation: Mastering spatial awareness using maps and compasses.
  • Fire Building: Hands-on lessons in building and maintaining contained fires.
  • Climbing: A climbing tower and bouldering wall with intensity tailored to student comfort levels.
  • Nature Exploration: Cooperative challenges designed to build character in a safe environment.

Facility & Logistics

  • Season: Available September through May.
  • Accommodations: Climate-controlled, dorm-style housing with modern restrooms (rooms sleep 4).
  • Food Service: Full buffet-style meals provided; all dietary restrictions accommodated.
  • Capacity: Minimum Grade 3; maximum 60 youth and 24 adults.
  • Staffing: Expert, enthusiastic instructors who prioritize safety and student engagement. “Loved all the staff; very professional, enthusiastic, and PATIENT! They remembered every name and got the students excited to learn.” — Central Park Elementary

Pricing

  • Youth: $25 per student.
  • Adults: First 2 adults FREE ($25 per additional adult).
  • Financial Aid: Options are available to ensure all students can participate.

WE STILL HAVE A FEW SPOTS LEFT FOR FALL – BOOK NOW TO RESERVE TODAY!

Email: basecamp@northernstar.org – Dates are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Website: explorebasecamp.org
Questions: Deb Lerdon, Community Sales Executive 612-261-2332 / dlerdon@northernstar.org