Outdoor Education

Hands-On Learning

Go beyond the classroom with a unique outdoor educational experience. Students engage with curriculum and lessons differently when presented in a direct and hands-on learning environment. Tailor a lesson plan for your goals and students hosted at our 360-acre camp.

Exploring Starts Here

Students of every educational level and social background can benefit from Outdoor Education at YMCA Camp Carter. Our experienced Outdoor Education Instructors actively include students of all ages and abilities in the learning process through nature journaling, outdoor activities and group discussions. Children return to the classroom with real life experiences to write about, talk about and reflect upon.

The World Around Us

This year’s curriculum offers classic camp activities like archery, canoeing, hiking, outdoor life skills, and experiential science classes based on Texas ecosystems and natural history, plus an added focus on how humans connect to the world and how humans connect to each other through teambuilding and group challenges.

Students Walk Away With:

Real-life Applications

Hands-on Learning Experiences

Unforgettable Memories

A Screen-free Environment

New Friendships & Unity

Nature Appreciation

A Seriously Fun Time!

Your Adventure Awaits

We offer half-day, full-day, extended-day, and overnight options. Click below to learn more about our Outdoor Education offerings.

Ready to book?

To request a school trip, please complete the form below. Our staff will check availability and contact you soon.

Customize Your Visit

Let us tailor a trip to meet your school’s needs. All packages are customizable to accommodate any budget.

Email Us

Frequently Asked Questions

How many students can we bring?

We can accommodate groups of less than 10 to groups larger than 200. Typically we ask that students are split into groups of 15-20 students before your arrival.

Our Outdoor Education programs are flexible and customizable. Our most common field trip schedule is from 9am-3pm for a full-day of programming. We also offer half-day, extended-day, and overnight options!

One of the main goals of our Outdoor Education department is to make sure that all students have access to outdoor learning opportunities. Our Think Outside Scholarship helps to remove financial barriers, and get more students outside. Learn more.

Many of our classes and activities have a strong emphasis on outdoor life skills that are engaging and beneficial to a wide range of ages! Our hands-on science and social studies classes are designed to meet national science standards and TEKS for grades 4-6. We also offer leadership development and teambuilding programs that are designed for middle and high school students.