Spring 2026 4-H Outdoor Education Workshop

April 25-26, 2026

Camp Newaygo
5333 S. Centerline Rd. 
Newaygo, MI 49337

Arrival/Check-in:

There are two options for check-in:

• Option 1: Arrive Friday evening (April 24) between 4 and 8 p.m. (Dinner is on your own Friday evening)
• Option 2: Arrive Saturday morning (April 25). Breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m. Classes begin promptly at 10 a.m. 

Upon arriving, please park where indicated and head to the main camp building (larger building with red doors). 

Who:

Adult 4-H Gold volunteers and MSU Extension staff (with approval from their supervisor and Institute leadership).

What:

Join 4-H and Camp Newaygo staff for this exciting Professional Development Opportunity! April 25th and 26th at beautiful Camp Newaygo, participants can choose from two learning tracks:

1. Head, Heart, Hands, Health, and...HABITATS! - Get ready to get kids outdoors! Become a certified Project Wild Educator and learn how you can incorporate this classic DNR curriculum for grades K-12 into 4-H Clubs, SPIN Clubs, Camps, and more. You'll be a hit at your next 4-H event with the tools and tricks you gain from this session. Whether you need to pull that perfect outdoor activity from your back pocket at a moment's notice or you're planning a full week of programming, this session will prepare you with over 80 activities and lessons designed to engage kids in nature. All participants will receive their own copy of the Project Wild curriculum book and other resources. 

• Taught by Joe Kreider, 4-H Natural Resources and Outdoor Education specialist. In his role, Joe provides statewide leadership to environmental and outdoor education programming in 4-H. His approach to outdoor education values both academic learning and personal growth, with a focus on giving youth opportunities to access the health and wellness benefits of being in the outdoors. 

2.  Teaching the Basics of the Backcountry - Get ready to get your hands dirty! Join us for a "Sharpen Your Skills" style workshop where we cover teaching backcountry skills. From the fundamentals of map and compass use to the essential crafts of fire-building, shelter building, and campfire cooking. We'll focus on how to teach these skills to youth while respecting the land through Leave No Trace principles. 

• Taught by Liliana Villa, Camp Newaygo's Adventure Program Director and Volunteer Coordinator. In her role, Liliana develops and leads outdoor experiences for both youth and adults. Her passion for outdoor adventure is rooted in her time as a backcountry trip leader. Her approach focuses on teaching practical skills that build confidence and foster a deep respect for the natural world. 

There will also be opportunities for whole group learning throughout the weekend and for participants of both courses to share ideas and practice skills. To register, use the link below.

Cost:

$150.00 - includes lodging, meals, and materials.
Lodging includes dormitory style lodging. Meals included are Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday. Breakfast is served on Sunday with the workshop ending by noon.

Please note: A participation waiver is required by our host facility and can be completed upon arrival. If you would like a copy to review and complete ahead of time please email lvilla@campnewaygo.org 

Persons canceling without a replacement after April 18th and those who do not show up at the workshop will be billed the full registration fee.