WILDERNESS WEEK July 13 – 17, 2026
Over the 5 days of Wilderness Week, participants explore conservation and survival skills. All programs involve interactive classroom activities combined with extensive hands-on outdoor learning. Courses are presented by professionals in their specific field such as survival, first-aid, forestry and wildlife management.
Machia Wilderness Camp is open to youth ages 11 to 18. Each participant receives a T-shirt; a hot homemade lunch and (mostly) healthy snacks. Your $200 camper fee helps cover the cost of meals and necessary materials. Scholarships are available.
Send us an email with application at machiacamp@gmail.com and we’ll notify you with more information. APPLICATION: Click Here
Forestry:
Campers will explore local habitat with a Forester discovering various species of vegetation and how they play a major role in the ecosystem.
Wildlife Management:
Vermont State Fish and Wildlife will discuss management and its importance for sustainability of species.
First Aid:
With hands-on learning Campers will explore how to care for possible injuries sustained during outdoor recreational activities.
Survival Skills:
A major part of the week will revolve around Survival Skills and how to triage a situation using the acronym S.T.O.P (stop, think, observe, plan) in any emergency.
Fishing:
Campers will gain knowledge of Vermont fish species and their habitats, the importance of tackle and gear, casting and reeling, basic fly-fishing cast, and how to tie a fly.
Conservation:
Conservation will be discussed in length and why it is important for the sustainability of wildlife species and outdoor activities. This will also involve a service project that will better the camp’s habitat.