• Aurora with trees and title Outdoor Learning Center
  • Aurora with trees and title Outdoor Learning Center

Northern Star Outdoor Learning Center

Building on over a century of outdoor expertise, Northern Star Scouting is proud to evolve. We’ve expanded our "Base Camp" mission to launch a premier Outdoor Learning Center for schools and community groups.

Just 30 minutes from our urban Base Camp, this two-day, one-night immersion transforms the stunning St. Croix River Valley into an elite outdoor classroom. We’ve elevated our popular curriculum to offer deeper impact and true wilderness discovery—without the long drive.

Our expert-led programs push students beyond the classroom and into the wild. Whether it’s mastering the elements or mastering teamwork, we provide hands-on training designed to build confidence and resilience in any season.

Outdoor Learning Center

 

The Outdoor Learning Center offers an immersive 2-day, 1-night camp experience for students in Grade 3 and above. Operating on weekdays throughout the school year, our program features days filled with hands-on learning. Students engage in essential outdoor activities—including archery, rock climbing, nature exploration, orienteering, fire building, and wilderness skills—all under the guidance of our highly trained, enthusiastic staff. Designed to build confidence and resilience, this experience allows students to live and learn differently in the beauty of the outdoors.

Sessions are available weekdays September to May on a first-come, first-served basis.

Some Activities You'll Do

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL

Can you start a fire without a lighter? Or build a shelter out of sticks?

TEAM BUILDING

Build your leadership and teamwork skills with fun activities.

BOULDERING

Bouldering provides challenging horizontal routes for climbers that like the unique challenge of going sideways instead of up and down.

ARCHERY

Take up a bow and test your aim and focus.

CLIMBING

Push your limts and conquer the climbing wall.

THE MAZE

Use a map and compass to find your way through the forest.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Nature based Exploration

Focusing on the development of bravery and kindness, this program encourages students to step outside their comfort zones through cooperative exploration. Guided by adult-led prompting, students collaborate to solve challenges, practicing empathy and courage while creating lifelong memories in a safe, immersive natural environment.

Navigation & orienteering

Students master spatial awareness and cardinal directions using maps and compasses.

Fire Building

A hands-on lesson covering fire chemistry, safety, and environmental impact. Students learn to build and maintain a contained fire under expert supervision.

Archery

Students learn fundamental commands, safety protocols, and shooting techniques. Participation is focused on skill-building and hands-on practice.

Climbing and Bouldering

Features climbing tower, bouldering and team-building exercises. Our staff tailors the intensity to the group’s comfort level, focusing on personal growth and overcoming challenges.

SCHEDULE

Day 1

  • 10:00 am Arrival & Check-In
  • 10:30 am Camp Tour
  • 12:00 pm Lunch
  • 1:00 pm Afternoon Activities
  • 4:15 pm Break
  • 4:45 pm Dinner
  • 5:45 pm Evening Activities
  • 8:15 pm Campfire
  • 9:00 pm Lights Out

Day 2

  • 8:00 am Breakfast
  • 8:45 am Pack and stage at Bus Area
  • 9:30 am Morning Activities
  • 12:00 pm Lunch
  • 1:00 pm Departure

WHO CAN ATTEND?

Students in Grade 3 and above

DO adults HAVE TO ATTEND?

A minimum of 2 adults are required and a ratio of 1 adult: 15 youth must be maintained.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

For a limited time to celebrate our opening, we are offering the 2-day, 1-overnight stay for:

  • Youth $25
  • First 2 adults free
    • Additional adults $25

This includes:

  • Program
  • Meals
  • Lodging
  • Equipment
  • Instructors
  • Learning
  • Fun!

Financial aid is available.

WHEN can we go?

Weekdays September-May

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

We recommend that everyone packs for changing weather and to be outdoors for the majority of the day. See the packing list for a full list of items

  • Closed-Toe Shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Hat or Sunglasses
  • Weather appropriate clothes for 2 days
  • Rain jacket

Participants must have closed toed shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather. They will be spending a majority of the day outdoors so it is important that they are dressed properly.

WHAT FORMS DO I NEED TO BRING?

Each participant must have a printed and signed Camp and Activities Participant Waiver at check-in. Digital submissions will not be accepted. This form can be found under the "Related Articles" header to the right (below on mobile devices).

FOOD SERVICE

All of your meals are included and will start with lunch on day 1 and end with lunch on day 2. Meals will be served cafeteria style in our dining hall.  

Lodging

Your group will be assigned to a dorm style building. Each room sleeps up to 4 (2 Bunk Beds).

WHAT TO EXPECT AT CHECK IN

A completed Roster for your group and Camp & Activities Participant Waivers for each participant will be turned in when you arrive at camp.

FIRST AID & ONSITE MEDICAL STAFF

At least 50% of our staff are trained in First Aid and CPR.  If something happens that will require a trip to a clinic or hospital, emergency contacts will be called immediately.

WHAT IS THE PAYMENT TIMELINE?

A deposit of 50% per person is required upon making a reservation request, based on the estimated number of participants.

The remaining balance is due upon arrival.

Cancellation Policy

Scheduled programs cancelled at least 3 weeks in advance can transfer their deposit to a new date within 1 calendar year. Scheduled programs cancelled less than 3 weeks in in advance will forfeit any deposits paid.

Contact us

Deb Lerdon

Community Sales Executive
612-261-2332
Outdoor Learning Center

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