Explore the Outdoors are 90 minute, drop-in style programs designed for elementary-aged youth (ages 5+) and their families. Each week features a different theme: outdoor skills, nature, crafts, cooking, target sports, guest speakers, and more.
Activities are aligned across camps when possible, with fun variations that highlight each property’s unique features.
See dropdown menus below for more information and to register.
*free for youth that are members of Cub Scouts. Some enhanced nights may have an additional one-time fee for all participants.
Pre-registration helps us be even more prepared for the families that are attending. If you have a last minute change of plans and you can come out camp, that's okay, we will be happy to see you either way!
Your family can join us for one visit, all 12 weeks, or any mix of dates that works for your schedule.
There's plenty of room around the fire! Everybody coming is encouraged to bring a friend.
This ensures a quality and safe program for your family. Learn more about NCAP.
40 acre property just south of the city of Eau Claire.
Mondays at Camp Brunswick.
S5020 William Ct.
Eau Claire, WI 54701
1,400 acre camp with several private lakes, located 3 miles outside of Haugen.
Thursdays at Camp Phillips (except for Camp Barksdale dates.)
Enter at Cub World Entrance
Use fire number: 2836 16th St
Rice Lake, WI 54868
40 acre property located on Lake Superior between Ashland and Washburn.
June 18, July 16 & August 20
72220 State Hwy 13
Ashland, WI 54806
Many of our activities can be modified and moved indoors, we will run rain or shine unless it is not possible.
In the event of a severe weather or other cancellation-
BY 5 PM THE DAY OF THE EVENT, we will:
notify pre-registered participants via email
announce the cancellation at the top of this website
transfer any fees paid to a future session of ETO of your choice
If your family needs to cancel:
we will transfer any fees paid to a future session of ETO of your choice
Water bottle
Closed toe shoes
Weather appropriate layers
A sense of adventure
A friend!
Optional: bug spray, sunscreen, small daypack.
We’ll provide activity materials unless otherwise noted.
Is this just for current members of Scouting?
No—everyone is welcome!
Is this a drop-off program?
This is a family friendly evening program. We require a caregiver remain on site.
Accessibility & inclusion
We welcome all families. If you need accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please contact us in advance so we can help plan a great experience.
Safety
Activities are led by trained staff and volunteers following age-appropriate safety guidelines. Some activities may have minimum age or capacity limits; alternatives are always offered.
JUNE 15 & 18
Kick off the summer by stepping into nature and discovering all the wonders our camps have to offer! Youth and families can explore trails, uncover hidden signs of wildlife, and get creative with simple crafts inspired by the outdoors. This week is perfect for new visitors who want to see what camp is all about—or for returning families eager to reconnect with nature. No experience is needed, just curiosity and a sense of adventure.
What to expect:
Nature scavenger hunts and trail exploration
Plant and animal identification
Hands-on, make-and-take nature crafts
Drop-in format—stay as long as you’d like
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, June 15, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Barksdale Thursday, June 18, 6-7:30 PM
JUNE 22 & 25
Aim, focus, and have fun during this action-packed week of target sports! Youth can test their skills with archery, BB guns, or slingshots (depending on location), all in a safe and supervised environment. This week encourages patience, concentration, and confidence while giving everyone a chance to celebrate their successes—whether it’s a first-time shot or improving an existing skill.
What to expect:
Archery and BB gun ranges
Slingshots and other precision games
Skill-building with safety guidance
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, June 22, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, June 25, 6-7:30 PM
JUNE 29 & JULY 2
Get hands-on and create something amazing! Youth will enjoy simple construction projects, hands-on STEM challenges, and craft activities that let their creativity shine. This week is all about problem-solving, teamwork, and the pride that comes from making something with your own hands. Families can explore projects at their own pace, choosing activities that fit their interests.
What to expect:
Hands-on construction and craft projects
Paracord bracelets and small STEM builds
Creativity-focused challenges
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, June 29, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, July 2, 6-7:30 PM
JULY 6 & 9
Push your limits, climb higher, and balance through fun challenges! This week is designed for youth who love adventure and movement. Try the low ropes COPE elements, climbing walls (Phillips), or obstacle courses in a safe and encouraging environment. Every participant can set their own pace and challenge themselves while building confidence and teamwork skills.
What to expect:
Low ropes and obstacle courses
Climbing opportunities (Phillips)
Confidence-building and movement challenges
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, July 6, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, July 9, 6-7:30 PM
JULY 13 & 16
Learn the foundational skills of being comfortable and safe in the outdoors! Youth will practice knot tying, basic shelter building, and other hands-on outdoor challenges. This week is a mix of practical skills and fun games, designed to give everyone a sense of accomplishment while connecting with the environment around them.
What to expect:
Knot tying and basic outdoor skills
Shelter-building activities
Team problem-solving challenges
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, July 13, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Barksdale Thursday, July 16, 6-7:30 PM
JULY 20 & 23
Become a secret agent for the evening! Youth will solve codes, complete stealthy missions, and navigate challenges that test observation and teamwork. This week combines strategy, brain power, and movement-based fun, with activities designed to engage all ages and skill levels.
What to expect:
Code-breaking and logic challenges
Laser maze or obstacle course missions
Teamwork and problem-solving fun
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, July 20, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, July 23, 6-7:30 PM
JULY 27 & 30
Test your strength, agility, and teamwork in a high-energy adventure! Youth can tackle obstacle courses, fitness challenges, and cooperative games designed to build confidence, resilience, and fun memories. Whether aiming to “beat your best” or try something new, there’s a challenge for everyone.
What to expect:
Obstacle courses and physical challenges
Cooperative and team-based games
Confidence and fun-focused activities
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, July 27, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, July 30, 6-7:30 PM
AUGUST 3 & 6
Cool off and enjoy summer with water-themed activities! Youth can participate in lakeside games, water challenges, or movement-based activities depending on location. This week encourages play, exploration, and outdoor learning in a refreshing way.
What to expect:
Water games and relays (Brunswick)
Swimming, boating, or lakeside exploration (Phillips)
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, August 3, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, August 6, 6-7:30 PM
AUGUST 10 & 13
Learn to identify plants, recognize signs of wildlife, and practice basic outdoor awareness. Youth will gain hands-on experience in exploring and respecting the natural environment while having fun with age-appropriate challenges.
What to expect:
Plant and nature identification
Outdoor skills and exploration
Camp Phillips- Guest presenter: Tavis Lynch mushroom foraging expert
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Additional enhanced fee for Camp Phillips may be incurred.
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, August 10, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, August 13, 6-7:30 PM
AUGUST 17 & 20
Slow down and take a closer look at the natural world. Youth can explore trails, identify plants and animals, and participate in outdoor crafts or journaling. This week encourages observation, creativity, and curiosity, letting youth connect with nature at their own pace.
What to expect:
Nature journaling and art
Plant and insect exploration
Relaxed, discovery-based activities
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, August 17, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Barksdale Thursday, August 20, 6-7:30 PM
AUGUST 24 & 27
Celebrate what makes camp special! Youth can explore classic camp skills, games, and storytelling while learning about traditions and teamwork. This week is a great chance to revisit favorite activities and connect with others before the summer winds down.
What to expect:
Knots, outdoor skills, and camp games
Storytelling and group activities
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, August 24, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, August 27, 6-7:30 PM
AUGUST 31 & SEPTEMBER 3
End the summer on a high note! Favorite activities from past weeks are back, plus some new surprises. Youth can climb (at Phillips), shoot, explore, and challenge themselves one last time before the season ends. This week is designed to celebrate summer, friendship, and the joy of camp.
What to expect:
Archery and target sports
Climbing (Phillips) and low ropes challenges (Brunswick)
Favorite activities from the summer
Celebration-style atmosphere
Drop-in format—come for part or all of the evening
Register for Camp Brunswick Monday, August 31, 6-7:30 PM
Register for Camp Phillips Thursday, September 3, 6-7:30 PM