Intermediate Survival Skills Course

The Intermediate Survival Skills course builds on the skills learned in the Basic Survival Skills course while spending two nights in the woods of our 160-acre Tekamah Training Facility. During the basic class, instructors took great care to make sure the students stayed comfortable. During the intermediate course, the focus is shifted and it becomes the students’ responsibility to care for themselves, prepare their meals, and make sure they stay dry and comfortable in the outdoors. This shift in focus is what pushes the student to become more proficient and confident in their outdoor skills. Much of what takes place during this course mirrors military survival curriculum.

On the first evening, students work together to complete projects which include building a group shelter for the first night in the woods. On day two, the focus in transferred to individual skills and self-reliance. Students are required to build their own individual ‘super-shelter’, prepare a survival kit, learn new fire skills, and prepare their own meals over an open fire. On the last day, students complete and exercise where all their newly acquired skills are put to the test. Most students describe this exercise as the most rewarding part of the entire experience. Class ends with a group meal prepared in the coals of a hardwood fire.

The confidence you will gain from our Survival Skills classes will remain with you long after the snow melts and ground thaws. If you still are not convinced, remember that the techniques we teach have been refined over many years and we take safety very seriously. There is always trained medical staff on hand as well as a temperature controlled bunkhouse for emergencies.

  • Backpack(s) large enough for the following items:
  • Sleeping Bag(s) rated for the expected conditions – Military Modular Sleep System works well
  • Sleeping pad
  • Weather appropriate clothes, comfortable boots, 2-3 pairs of socks
  • Empty 32oz sports drink bottle
  • 55 gallon trash bag
  • Fixed blade knife with sheath
  • Fire starters – e.g. matches, lighter, Firesteel
  • Cup, spoon, bowl and water bottle – Stainless steel is best for cold conditions, but not required
  • First Aid Kit and personal medications as needed
  • 100 feet of 550 cord (Paracord)
  • Leather gloves
  • 10 foot by 10 foot tarp 
  • 8×8 or larger clear plastic drop cloth. 2 mil thickness
  • Silver space blanket
  • Flashlight/headlamp and extra batteries
  • Spare clothing in vehicle

Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.