Introductory Camping Programs
Three Rivers Park District has offered accessible camping options for many years. Interest in camping is growing, but getting started can be hard because gear is expensive or it can be intimidating to get started.
In 2020, the Community Engagement team began introductory camping programs aimed at breaking down barriers and introducing new audiences to the joys of camping. During these programs, participants can borrow essential gear and receive the guidance they need to feel comfortable and confident when camping for the first time.
Community Engagement team members work directly with Recreation Pass Plus cardholders and local organizations to bring groups out for these programs to help make camping experiences more accessible to all.
Types of Introductory Camping Programs
Explore our introductory camping programs available to Recreation Pass Plus cardholders and local organizations.
- Camping 101 Weekends
Our Camping 101 Weekend is a guided, beginner-friendly camping experience designed to teach the fundamentals of outdoor camping. Held from Friday evening to Sunday morning, participants learn essential skills like tent setup, fire-building, outdoor cooking and more.
Basic camping gear is provided, including tents, sleeping pads, camp stove, roasting sticks and lanterns.
Optional outdoor activities such as biking, canoeing, fishing, geocaching, slacklining and birding hikes are also scheduled during the weekend.
- Borrow a Camping Kit
For those ready to camp on their own but need access to camping gear, our camping kit program is a great option.
Reservable camping kits have all the basic camping gear needed, including tents, sleeping pads, lanterns, roasting sticks and a camp stove.
- Group Camping and Leader Training
Our Camping Gear Trailer makes group camping more accessible for educators, youth workers, and community leaders who want to lead their own overnight experiences at a Three Rivers Park District group campsite.
Designed for groups of up to 50 people, you can reserve a gear trailer stocked with all the essentials for a successful group camping trip, including tents, tarps, sleeping pads, cookstoves, cookware and dinnerware.
To access this resource, we offer hands-on group leader training that covers both equipment use and trip facilitation. This training is offered on an as needed basis.
Have questions or want to sign up for an introductory program? Please contact Marla Martinez for more information.
Contact Us
Have questions? Please contact Marla Martinez for more information.
Stories of Impact
Camping can offer new ways to connect to nature, but there is recognizable privilege in being able to do it. Learn how our Community Engagement team worked with community partners and other staff members to establish a Camping Gear Lending Library and offer introductory camping experiences to interested groups.
