Outdoor Education - Curriculum | YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas

Our Outdoor Education program is designed to be fully adaptable to meet the unique needs of your students! We understand that each school has its own set of expectations for their outdoor experience, and our goal is to provide a tailored program that aligns with those specific objectives.

Each trail or activity period is allocated three hours. For activities that require less time, multiple experiences can be seamlessly integrated into a single trail period. Each day consists of two trail periods—one in the morning and one in the afternoon—ensuring a dynamic and flexible schedule that can accommodate a variety of learning opportunities.

Core Curriculum Trails

Johnson's Peak

The Johnson's Peak trail is our longest and most challenging hike, spanning 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of over 300 feet. This trail provides an immersive experience in the study of biotic and abiotic factors, the rock cycle, and plant succession, among other ecological processes. Campers will also explore paleontology by searching for fossils from the Permian Basin.

Duration: 3 Hours

Devil's Island

This unique adventure begins with a barge ride across the lake through the iconic Hell’s Gate to the base of Devil’s Island. This trail covers a range of topics, including local flora and fauna, inherited traits, learned behaviors, and the environmental impact of dams.

Duration: 2 ½ - 3 Hours

Man and the Environment

Man and the Environment is our most experiment-based and hands-on outdoor learning experience. This trail focuses on the water cycle, the roles of micro and macroinvertebrates, soil types and layers, pollution, and tree studies.

Duration: 3 Hours

Animal Crossing

Students will travel to our mini farm via trailer and explore topics such as food chains versus food webs, the Dust Bowl, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and sustainable farming practices. Students will get to meet and feed a variety of animals, including pigs, goats, chickens, cows, and donkeys!

Duration: 3 Hours

Additional Activities/Trails

Project Adventure

Through a series of over a dozen challenges, students will focus on essential values such as communication, trust, respect, and responsibility. This trail is designed to enhance collaboration and group problem-solving skills. Duration: 45 Minutes- 3 Hours

Outdoor Living Skills

Campers will learn vital survival skills, including fire safety and building shelters. This trail promotes practical knowledge and resourcefulness. Duration: 1 ½ - 2 Hours

Orienteering

Students will learn how to use a compass and apply their skills during a scavenger hunt to navigate the trail! Duration: 45 Minutes

Archery

Students will learn about Native American hunting techniques and practice their skills in archery! Duration: 45 Minutes- 1 1/2 Hours

Canoeing

Students will learn paddling techniques and work together to navigate the cove, fostering teamwork and communication. This activity is ideal in mild weather conditions, such as early fall or late spring. Duration: 45 Minutes - 1 ½ Hours

Sensory

In this trail, students will navigate without sight, using touch and communication to simulate how animals compensate for sensory limitations. It promotes teamwork and sensory awareness. Duration: 25-30 Minutes

Fishing

Possum Kingdom Lake provides an ideal setting for fishing, with an abundance of game fish species such as catfish, largemouth bass, striped bass, and bluegill. Duration: 45 Minutes- 3 Hours

Additional Cost Activities

Zipline

Students will experience the thrill of gliding down the zipline, overcoming fear and gaining confidence in the process! This activity is one of the most memorable aspects of camp. Duration: 1 ½ - 3 Hours Additional cost: $10 per zip

Horses

After learning proper riding techniques, students will embark on a guided trail ride through the woods, boosting confidence and personal growth. Duration: 1 ½ Hours Additional cost: $5 per rider

Climbing Tower

Our 50-foot climbing tower helps students build confidence and overcome fears, with routes suitable for all skill levels. It’s an empowering experience that encourages personal growth. Duration: 1 ½ - 3 Hours Additional cost: $5 per climber