Winter 2009-2010

Registration opens November  17th at 7 a.m. for programs.

Paul Horsted presenting photos from 'Exploring with Custer' and 'Crossing the Plains with Custer' Photographer/historian Paul Horsted will speak on the history of the Black Hills and the 1874 Black Hills “Custer” Expedition. He will present a fascinating look into the past through images taken by pioneering photographers, which he matches with his modern photos taken from the same locations.   Paul has been photographing South Dakota’s people and places for more than 25 years. Besides his books, "Crossing the Plains with Custer," "Exploring with Custer" and "The Black Hills Yesterday and Today," his pictures have appeared in publications such as LIFE, Reader’s Digest and USA Today, as well as in books, calendars, and advertising. He is featured regularly in South Dakota Magazine. His books will be available for purchase after the presentation. Pre-registration is required. FREE. Age: Families, children must attend with an adult Class size: 120 Class date: Saturday, December 19, 2 -3:30 p.m. Register here.

Raptor Rendezvous A unique opportunity for families! What is Raptor Rendezvous? Raptor Rendezvous is a celebration of Bald Eagle Awareness Day. Participants will rotate through stations, learning about the habitats of raptors, their adaptations and much more. When is Raptor Rendezvous?  Raptor Rendezvous will be held Open House style on Thursday, February 25th, from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Who can come to Raptor Rendezvous?  Raptor Rendezvous stations are geared for all ages.    What will we learn at Raptor Rendezvous?  Through hands-on activities, games and crafts, we will explore the world of the raptors of South Dakota.  How do I register?   You do not need to register for the open house, you do need to register for the Wildlife Experiences shows going on at 4:00pm and 7:00 pm
Bald Eagle Awareness Day
Help us celebrate Bald Eagle Awareness Days with Wildlife Experiences! If you’ve never seen a Wildlife Experiences presentation, you are in for a real treat! They will bring live birds to The Outdoor Campus for an entertaining and  educational show. All attending family members must be registered! Date of presentation: Thursday, February 25 from 4 to 5:30 or 7 to 8:30 p.m. Class size: 120                       Age: Families; Minors if accompanied by adult Register here.

Preschool Programs

Sprouts (3-4 yr olds)
Nature awareness programs for preschoolers and their adult partner held Wednesday and Saturday mornings!

B is for Beaver
Beaver are one of the hardest working animals in South Dakota.  These busy little critters not only create homes for themselves, but also for countless other creatures through out the state.  Join us as we learn about, play like and enjoy the fun, busy, building, beaver.
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

• Saturday, Jan. 9 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, Jan. 13 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m. 

• Saturday, Jan. 23 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, Jan. 27 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m. 

Class size: 15

C is for Crayfish
Crawfish, crawdad or mudbug, whatever you call them they are the tiny little lobster looking things that are found in bodies of water all across the world.  We’ll learn about our little crustacean friends, we will meet live crawdads, create a nifty craft and maybe even behave like a crawly crawdad!

Class dates: (pick one of the following)

• Saturday, Feb. 6 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m.;

• Wednesday, Feb. 10 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m.;

• Saturday, Feb. 20 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, Feb. 24 10-10:45 a.m. or 11:00-11:45 a.m.

Class size: 15 

Nature Story Time
(1-4 year olds with an adult partner)   Class size: 15 Pre-registration required. Join Miss Sandy on reading adventures as we explore our nature library. Sandy will read stories each month about animals, nature, kids in the outdoors and lots more!

• Monday, Janurary 11th, 10:00 a.m.

• Monday, February 8th       10:00 a.m.     

Register here.

Young Nats. Programs
(5-7 yr olds) Our staff and volunteers can introduce your young naturalist to the wonder of South Dakota's amazing wildlife. Programs consist of age-appropriate activities.

Winter Homes -How Animals Stay Snug in the Snow
Most South Dakota animals do not hibernate for the winter!  If they don’t     hibernate, where do they go and what do they do?  In this class we will explore the amazing winter homes of some of SD’s crafty critters and learn how they stay snug in the snow.
Age: 5-7 years                        Class size: 15
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

• Saturday, January 9, 10-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, Janurary 23, 10-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:45 a.m.

Winter Food – Nuts, berries and bark oh my!!!!!
Many animals have it tough in the winter, food is scarce and the weather is harsh.  Join us at The Outdoor Campus to learn about how some of our wild neighbors survive the winter, where they find food and what kinds of food see them through the severe South Dakota winters!
Age: 5-7 years                        Class size: 15
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

• Saturday, February 6, 10-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, February 20, 10-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:45 a.m.

Register here.

Junior Nats. Programs
(8-12 yr olds) Discover South Dakota’s diverse wildlife and habitats through age-appropriate activities.

Cold Weather Survivors
How many of you look forward to the winter months?  Here at The Outdoor Campus we adore these frigid few weeks every year.  Join us for a fantastically fun afternoon of exploring the habits, homes, behaviors and adaptations of some of our wild South Dakota winter loving animals.\
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Saturday, Jan. 9 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.; OR Saturday, Jan. 23 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Hibernating Heroes
What exactly is hibernation?  Is it more than simply sleeping through the winter?  Hurry on over to The Outdoor Campus to learn about what exactly is involved in hibernation, and which of South Dakota’s animals have adapted this amazing winter survival strategy. 
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Saturday, Feb. 6 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.;  OR Saturday, February 20 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Junior Explorer: X-Country Skiing
Get hands-on instruction in cross-country skiing and related equipment and head outdoors for guided practice on our trails. All equipment is provided, but please dress for the weather. Program cancels if there is less than 3” of good skiing snow.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Saturday, Jan. 16 from 1:30-3:00 p.m. OR Sunday, Feb. 14 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Junior Angler: Ice Fishing 101
Get a short introduction to ice fishing, and then go fishing on our pond. We provide the equipment, but please dress for the weather, including waterproof boots. Each person age 16 and older must have a valid SD fishing license. Program cancels if there’s less than 8” of good quality ice.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, Jan. 10 1:30-3:00 p.m. OR Saturday, Feb. 13 10:30-noon

Junior Hunter: Winter Hunting Basics
Come join us for an action packed afternoon as we learn all about the tricks of the trade in hunting in cold weather.  We will be going over some tricks and tips on how to have a safe, successful, warm and dry hunt.
Age: 8-12 years                     
Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, Feb. 28 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Register here.

Family Programs
(all ages unless otherwise listed) 

Nifty Nature Walks
If you love the outdoors, or are interested in doing more activities outdoors, join us on an informal walk around campus.  We will     discuss and explore whatever happens to come our way.  The great thing about nature is that you never know what you are going to see! 
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult
Class size: 20 
Class dates: Saturday, January 9, 8-9 am

Theme: Winter Persistent Berries

Saturday, February 13, 8-9 am

Theme: Winter Wildlife

Family Movies
Come relax with us for two Saturday afternoons in December! We’ll watch a family-friendly    nature themed movie in the theater on our big screen! Call the Campus at 362-2777 or email toc@state.sd.us to find out what’s showing when. All attending family members must be registered!
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult     
Class size: 125
Class date: Sunday, January 24th, Sunday, February 21st,  All movies are from 1:30 to approximately 3:00 p.m.

Family Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a fun and easy way to explore the outdoors in winter – and get    exercise too! Wear hiking boots or “non-slippery” winter boots. Please dress for the weather! Program cancels if there is less than 3” of snow. All attending family members must be registered! Individually signed waivers are required for all participants in this class. Choose one date only.
Age: Families; Age 5 and up minors must attend with an adult=
Class size: 25
Class date:  Saturday, January 16 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.  or Saturday, January 30th  from 10 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. or Saturday, February 27th  from 10 a.m.- 11:30 a.m.

Snowshoeing Orienteering Adventure
Orienteering is a fun activity for all ages. Come join us as we learn the basics behind orienteering with a little twist as we trek around the orienteering course wearing snowshoes!  Individually signed waivers are required of each participant in this program.
Age: Families; Age 5 and up, minors must attend with an adult
Class size: 25
Class date:  Saturday, January 30th, from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.

Moonlight Snowshoe Hike
Explore the wonderful night life as a naturalist leads you on an fun, interactive, educational night hike.  Learn about nocturnal critters that are still active    during the winter months.  Bundle up because we will be outside for the majority of the event.
Age: Families; Age 6 and up, must attend with an adult
Class size: 25
Class date:  Thursday, January 28th from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. or Thursday, February 25th from 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Register here.

Family Cross Country Skiing
Get hands-on instruction in cross-country skiing and related equipment and head outdoors for guided practice on our trails. All equipment is provided, but please dress for the weather. Program cancels if there is less than 3” of good skiing snow. All attending family members must be registered!  Individually signed waivers are required for all participants in this class. Choose one date only.
Age: Families; Age 8 and up minors must attend with an adult
Class size: 20
Class date:  

• Saturday, January 16, 10:30-12:00 p.m.

• Saturday, January 30, 10:30-12:00 p.m.

• Saturday, February 27, 10:30-12:00 p.m.

Wild Game Cooking
Join our volunteers and staff as they prepare some of their favorite wild game recipes. Come for a fun and tasty experience; leave with a recipe booklet!   Rattlesnake, antelope, elk, wild turkey, pheasant, plus many more wild game entrées will be available for sampling.  Come hungry.  All attending family members must be registered!
Age: Families; All ages, minors must attend with an adult
Class size: 100
Class date: Thursday, January 14 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Family Ice Fishing
Get a short introduction to ice fishing, and then go fishing on our pond. We provide the equipment, but please dress for the weather, including waterproof boots. Each person age 16 and older must have a valid SD fishing license. Program cancels if there’s less than 8” of good quality ice.  All attending family members must be registered! Individually signed waivers are required for all participants in this class. Choose ONE of the following times:
Class date: Sunday, January 17, 1:30-3:00 pm

                     Saturday, February 13, 1:30-3:00 pm

Age: Families; Age 5 and up, minors must attend with an adult
Class size: 25

Cross Country Skiing Poker Run
Slip and slide on down to The Outdoor Campus and join us as we play a game of poker.  Join The Outdoor Campus staff and try your hand at cross country skiing, we provide everything you will need from boots, to poles and of course skies.  While exploring our trails you will have the opportunity to participate in a little friendly competition.  Spread out around the campus trails.  You will find five stops. At each stop you will collect one    playing card.  At the end of your adventure you will make the best poker hand you can with the five cards you’ve collected.  Best hand will win an assortment of outdoor winter  goodies!  
Age: Families; Age 8 and up minors must attend with an adult
Class size: 30
Class date:   Saturday, February 27, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Register here.

Basics of Photography
Volunteer Instructor Keith Andersen will teach us about his favorite hobby! In this class we will focus on digital photography.  He will discuss equipment and will introduce the concepts of exposure and composition.  There will be time for questions.
Class date: Sunday, January 10, 1:00-3:00 pm
Age: Families; Age 12 and up, minors must attend with an adult
Class size: 50

Adult Programs
 (18 and up unless otherwise listed)

Cross Country Skiing by Moonlight
Get basic instruction on cross-country skiing, dressing for the sport and choosing equipment. Forget the flashlights, the full moon will light the way.  Join our naturalist as we practice skiing on some our 2+ miles of trails. Skis, ski boots and poles are provided, but please dress for the weather! Program cancels if there is less than 3” of good skiing snow. Individually signed waivers are required for all participants in this class.
Age: 18 and up                       Class size: 15
Class date:  Thursday, January 28 from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Adult Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a fun and easy way to explore the outdoors in winter – and get exercise too! Wear hiking boots or “non-slippery” winter boots. Please dress for the weather! Program cancels if there is less than 3” of snow. Individually signed waivers are required for all participants in this class.
Age: Adults only, 18 and up
Class size: 20
Class date: Saturday, February 20th from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Treats for Tweets
Join us again this winter to help attract beautiful winter birds to your backyard.
Age: Adults only, 18 and up
Class date: Sunday, Jan. 31st from 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Class size: 15  

Register here.

Fall 2009

download as a .pdf

“V” is for Very Hungry Caterpillar
Scoot yourself over and join us as we learn about our friends, the very hungry caterpillars.  We will learn about these little critters through a little show and tell, a puppet show, a nifty little craft and a caterpillar hunt in our butterfly garden.
Class date:

• Saturday, September 12, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, September 16, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, September 26, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, September 30, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

W” is for Walleye
Swim on down and learn all about South Dakota’s state fish, the wonderful walleye.  These fish are special critters and are one of the most popular fish caught in South Dakota waters.  We will perform a puppet show, create a craft and check out the fish in our aquarium.  Can’t wait to see you here.
Class date:

• Saturday, October 3, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, October 7, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, October 21, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, October 24, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

“Y” is for Yucky Animals
Slimy, squirmy, smelly, and crawly, are some characteristics of the animals that we call yucky.  Bring yourselves down to learn about  some of the yucky animals of South Dakota and why they have such disgusting habits!
Class date:

• Wednesday, November 4, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, November 7, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, November 21, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, November 25, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

 “A” is for Antelope
Sprint on in to learn about South Dakota’s and North America’s fastest land animal, the pronghorn antelope.  These goofy looking critters are one of a kind and can be found throughout most of western South Dakota.  So join us for a fast-paced morning of fun and learning!
Class date:

• Wednesday, December 2, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, December 5, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Wednesday, December 16, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

• Saturday, December 19, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Nature Story Time
(2-4 year olds with an adult)
Class size: 15
Join Miss Sandy on a reading adventure as we     explore TOC’s nature library.  Sandy will read stories each month about animals, nature, kids in the outdoors and lots more.  Get ready!  Sandy knows how to do all the good voices.              
When:

• Monday, September 14, 10:00 a.m

• Monday October 19, 10:00 a.m.

• Monday November 16, 10:00 a.m.

• Monday December 14, 10:00 a.m.

Animal Wrappers
Have you ever wondered why animals look so       different?  Join us as we discuss the reasons     behind animal wrappers, their scales, their furs, their naked skin and their feathers.  We will spend time indoors and out, romping around the campus looking and discussing the wrappers we find.
Age: 5-7 years                        Class size: 15
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, September 12, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Saturday, September 26, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Animal Eyes
Open your eyes to the wonders of      animal vision.  We will learn about the ways different animals use their eyes, how to differentiate venomous snakes and non-venomous snakes using their eyes and why owls have such large eyes. Can’t wait to see you here!
Age: 5-7 years                        Class size: 15
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, October 3, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Saturday, October 24, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Animal Noses
Animals use their noses for all sorts of different things, from finding food to locating danger.  Track your way in to learn about some of the amazing animal noses we have right here in South Dakota.
Age: 5-7 years                        Class size: 15
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, November 7, 10-10:45 a.m.

OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Saturday, November 21, 10-10:45 a.m.

OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Animal Ears
Do you hear what I hear?  We would like to invite you to visit and learn about the different kinds of ears animals use to help them survive predators, find a lady, animal friends and food in the South  Dakota wild.  
Age: 5-7 years                        Class size: 15
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, December 5, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Saturday, December 19, 10-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:45 a.m.

Winter Adventure Camp
Think there is nothing to do during the cold South Dakota winter months?  Think again! Spend the day at The Outdoor Campus and we’ll introduce you to a      multitude of activities that can be         enjoyed during the long South Dakota winters.  We will try our luck on the pond searching for fish below the ice, cross country ski on our trails and trek through the drifts on snow shoes among other activities.
Age: 5-7 years       Class size: 20
Class date: (pick one of the following)
Monday, December 28, 9:00-noon OR 1:30-4:30 p.m.
 

Junior Naturalists Programs (8-12 yr olds)
Nature adventure program for 8-12 year olds held Wednesday and Saturday afternoons! The goal of the Junior Naturalist program is to teach students about South Dakota’s natural environment and its inhabitants through interactive games and activities as well as outdoor expeditions. 

Predators
Growl, snarl, hiss and pounce as you walk through the doors of The Outdoor Campus and learn all about the proud, practiced predators of South Dakota.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, September 12, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Saturday, September 26, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Pheasant Fever
The Chinese ring neck pheasant is the state bird of South Dakota.  Many of you know this, and you surely know this beautiful bird is very popular in South Dakota, but do you know how this bird lives and thrives in our beautiful state?  Join us at as we discover the amazing life of the Chinese ring neck pheasant.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, October 3, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 24, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Turkey Time
Gobble, gobble, gobble!  Fly in and learn all about this wanna-be American symbol.  Turkeys are large, impressive, yet somewhat unattractive birds, living throughout most of the United States.  We will discuss their history and the amazing adaptations that allow them to thrive in South Dakota!
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class dates: (pick one of the following)

Saturday, November 7, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 21, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Winter Survival
Imagine yourself in the wilds of Sioux Falls during the dead of winter, the night is fast approaching and you are miles from home!  What are earth are you going to do?  Learn about some winter survival techniques that you can use whether you are hunting, fishing, camping, sledding, hiking or messing around outdoors. We will share and test some strategies that will keep us warm and well during the cold winter months.
Age: 8-12 years          Class size: 20
Class dates:

(pick one of the following)

Saturday, December 5, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 19, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Jr. Hunter: Waterfowl Hunting
Stalk your way to The Outdoor Campus this fall and we will introduce you to the basics behind water fowl  hunting.  Learn how to identify ducks at a distance, how to find a good hunting spot and how set decoys. We will even give you the opportunity to hit a bulls-eye on our bb gun course.  We look forward to seeing you!
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Saturday, September 19, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Jr. Angler: Fishing Basics
What better way to spend a day than fishing our well-stocked pond?  Learn the basics of fishing, including equipment, safety and ethics before dropping your hook. Youth should bring a hat and sunglasses. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Saturday, October 10, 10:30-noon

Jr. Hunter: Archery Deer Hunting
Learn the basics about deer hunting the old fashion way, with a bow and arrow.  Shoot the 3D deer target and learn some other techniques used during  the archery hunting such as following a blood trail,    scoring deer and learning how to blend in to your  surroundings by wearing camouflage. Individual signed waivers are    required of all participants in this program.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, October 18, 2:00-3:30 p.m.

Jr. Explorer: Outdoor Survival
Learn the basics of survival first hand.  Join us as we go through the steps of emergency survival and techniques that can save your life. Learn how to manage risk, build a shelter and a fire and many other ways to survive.
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, November 1, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Jr. Explorer: Outdoor Cooking
Join us to learn some fun ways to cook your meals using Dutch ovens, sticks, foil and more. Improve your fire building skills, too. We will also discuss Leave No Trace camping ethics. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program. 
Age: 8-12 years                      Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, November 22, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Winter Adventure Camp
Think there is nothing to do during the cold South    Dakota winter months?  Think again! Spend the day at The Outdoor Campus as we introduce you to a        multitude of activities that can be enjoyed during the long South Dakota winters.  We will try out luck on the pond searching for fish below the ice, cross country ski on our trails and trek through the drifts on snow shoes among other activities.
Age: 8-12 years     Class size: 20
Class dates: (pick one of the following)
Tuesday, December 29, 9-noon OR 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 30, 9-noon OR 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Family programs

Halloween Hike
Join us for our annual event celebrating nature at night! Costumed characters will be on hand to help you learn about South Dakota's natural nightlife. Staff and volunteers will perform skits along our trails. This hike is not scary and is appropriate for young children. Kids are welcome          (and encouraged!) to wear their own costume on the hike. Hike groups leave every 10 minutes from The Outdoor Campus building. Hikes begin at 6 p.m. and the last hike leaves at  8:50 p.m.
Pre-registration is required! All attending family  members must be registered!
Age: Families; all ages welcome!
Class size: 20 per hike
Class date: Friday, October 16 or Sat, October 17
The Halloween Hike fills up every year! We recommend registering early to guarantee a spot for your family!

Outdoor Cooking Fun
Hotdogs and s’mores are great camp foods, but you don’t have to settle for standard campfire fare on every trip.  Make and eat  delicious and easy camping     recipes using a variety of cooking techniques during this great family experience.  Come hungry! Participants must, for safety reasons, wear closed-toe shoes.  Signed waivers are required of all    participants in this program.  All attending family members must be registered!
Age: Families; Age 8 and up      Class size: 25
Class date: Thursday, September 3, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 4, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Nifty  Nature Walks
If you love the outdoors, or are interested in doing more activities outdoors, join us on an informal walk around campus.  We will discuss and explore whatever happens to come our way.  The great thing about nature is that you never know what you are going to see!  We will be outdoors for the entire program.
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult        Class size: 20 
Class dates:

• Saturday, September 5, 8:00-9:00 a.m.

• Saturday, October 3, 8:00-9:00 a.m

• Saturday, November 7,  8:00-9:00 a.m

• Saturday, December 5,  8:00-9:00 a.m

Archery 101
Deer, turkey, bear and bull’s-eyes await your arrows on the lawn of The Outdoor Campus.  This class will teach you and your family the basics of archery in a fun and safe environment. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program. All attending family members must be   registered!
Age: Families; recommended for 10 and up        Class size: 20
Class dates: Tuesday, September 8 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 29 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Family Fly Fishing
Believe it or not, South Dakota has amazing fly fishing       opportunities. From the fast moving cool water in the west to the lakes and pot holes here in the east, the                opportunities to partake in this majestic sport are     limitless.  Bring your family and join us at The Outdoor Campus to learn the basics behind fly fishing, including necessary equipment, types of flies and the proper way to cast the perplexing fly rod —not to mention having the opportunity to hook a few fish on our pond!
Age: Families; recommended for 8 and up                 Class size: 20
Class date:  Saturday, September 12 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Family Paddling
Canoeing and kayaking are great ways to spend time as a family AND see some spectacular sights.  This introductory class will demonstrate basic  paddling techniques and then turn you loose to paddle the pond where you’ll see fish, turtles, and bullfrogs galore.  You never know what you’ll see when you’re out on the water!  Wear sandals or shoes that can get wet. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program. All attending family members must be registered!
Age: Families; Age 7 and up to canoe, and 10 and up to kayak.    Class size: 25 
Class date: Thursday, September 10, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 26, 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Tuesday,  October 6, 6:00-7:30 p.m. 

Family Fishin
Fishing is a great way for families to spend time together! Get an introduction to fishing equipment,  casting skills, fish species, knots and more; then go fishing at our pond where you’re almost guaranteed to catch something. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes and sunglasses.  Fishing licenses are required of everyone 16 and older. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program. All attending family members must be registered!
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult     Class size: 25
Class date:  Tuesday, September 15 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 1 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. 

Family Fish Fry
Who’s hungry?  For those of you who are familiar with our popular wild game feed later in the fall, we have a new special little treat for you!  This September we will be hosting the first annual TOC fish fry.  We will treat your tongue to the moist, crumbly, tasty sensation that you will experience as we prepare a variety of fish species for your delight. 
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult         Class size: 50
Class date: Tuesday, September 22, 6:00-7:30 p.m. 

Family GPS/Geocaching Basics
Arrggh Matey!  Join us for a new kind of treasure hunt on the high prairie seas.  Whether your hidden treasure is a prime camping site or a camouflaged geocache, this class is the best place to start your quest.  We will teach you how GPS technology works and how to use  it. Then, we’ll turn you loose to navigate TOC’s prairie paths and woodland trails. Program participants will use the Campus’ Garmin GPS receivers. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program.  All attending family members must be  registered!
Age: Families; Age 8 and up               Class size: 25
Class date: Thursday, October 15, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 14, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Family Camping
Always wanted to take the family camping but unsure of how to begin?  This class will teach you the basic skills and knowledge necessary to spend a weekend in the wild.  Signed waivers are required of all  participants in this program. All attending family members must be registered!
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult       Class size: 25 
Class date: Tuesday, October 20, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Orienteering
Navigate to The Outdoors Campus and join us as we romp around Sertoma Park looking for hidden control points.  Using a map, your family will have the opportunity to follow our orienteering course, locating as many of our markers as you can. Don’t worry we haven’t lost anyone yet.
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult            Class size: 25
Class dates: Thursday, October 22 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 14 from 10:30-noon

Night Hike
Creep on into The Outdoor Campus after dark.  We will take a walk on the wild side as we experience Sertoma Park at night.  We will listen for wildlife, search for the signs of some secretive nocturnal critters, and perform fun activities that can only be done in the dark.  Leave your      flashlights at home and be prepared to brave the woods after dark.
Age: Families; recommended for 5 and up     Class size: 15
Class dates: Thursday, November 5 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Family Movie Day
Come relax with us as we watch a family-friendly, nature-themed movie in the theater on our big screen! Call the Campus at 362-2777 or email: toc@state.sd.us to find out what’s showing when. All attending family members must be registered!
Age: All ages; minors if accompanied by an adult       Class size: 125 
Class date: Sunday, December 20, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Adult classes

Custom Rod Building
Join our experienced volunteer instructors as they lead you through the process of building a custom rod. Whether you use an ice fishing pole, a spinning rod or a fly rod, you can find the perfect rod by making it yourself.  You may take this class whether you are new to rod building or have a little experience under your belt. Please thoroughly read the following              information about this class!  Individually signed waivers are required for all participants in this class.

During the orientation, class participants will learn about the rod building process, rods that can be built (including spinning, spin casting and fly rods), elements of a rod, and associated costs. At the end of the orientation, John will have you order your rod from a catalog. You will be responsible for ordering your rod components and covering the cost of the components.

The building classes will take you step-by-step through the process of building your rod. Be prepared to put in a little time on your own at home between classes to ensure you complete your rod. You will need to schedule an additional 1-1.5 hour session with John to use his equipment after the finish is applied to rotate the rod.
Age: 18 and up                       Class size: 10
Class dates:

Orientation: Wed., Sept. 16 from 7 to 9 p.m.                
Building class 1: Wed., Sept. 30 from 7 to 9 p.m.                  
Building class 2: Wed., Oct. 7 from 7 to 9 p.m.                 
Building class 3: Wed., Oct. 14 from 7 to 9 p.m.       
Building class 4: Wed., Oct. 21 from 7 to 9 p.m.

Rock Climbing
Come join us at Palisades State Park for a day of     learning, climbing and testing your personal limits! In a  relaxed and safe environment, you will learn the basics of climbing, including knots, belaying and back-up belaying. Basic climbing techniques are also discussed. Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program.
Age: 18 and up                       Class size: 15
Class date: Sunday, September 13 from 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Adult Camping Basics
Always wanted to take the family camping but unsure  how to begin?  This class will teach you the basic skills and knowledge necessary to spend a weekend in the wild.  Signed waivers are required of all participants in this program.
Age: 18 and up                       Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, September 20 from 2:00-3:30 p.m.

Adult Fly Fishing Basics
Flying fishing is an endlessly challenging (as well as     maddening) pastime, but when you manage to land a fish, the raw excitement and feeling of satisfaction far outweighs everything else.  If you have ever had any interest in learning to fly fish or would like to try something new, come on down to The Outdoor Campus.  We will discuss rod types, line selection and fly selection as well as how to put all three together to  accomplish your goal of capturing your cunning prey.  We will learn how to cast outdoors on our lawn and then we will have the opportunity to try your luck on our pond.  We can’t wait to see you here!
Age: Adults only, 18 and up Class size: 20
Class date: Sunday, September 27 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Adult Fly-Tying
Add more knowledge to your fishing fun by learning how to tie fishing flies.  Learn the steps of adding various materials to a hook to complete the fly.  Primary emphasis will be tying patterns used to catch warm    water species of fish found in the eastern part of our state:  bass,     bluegill, crappies, perch, northern pike and walleyes. The second date will deal with trout patterns.
Age: 18 and up                       Class size: 12
Class date: Tuesday, November 10 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. (Pan Fish Flies)

Tuesday, November 24 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. (Trout Flies)

Advanced Paddling
Put your paddling skills to the test. we will be going over corrective strokes in both kayaks and canoes. Prepare to get wet as you learn what to do in case you flip. Wear water shoes, clothes that can get wet, and don't for get to bring a towel.
Age: 18 and up                       Class size: 15
Class date: Thursday, September 24 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Summer 2009

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