The great outdoors offers endless opportunities for adventure, and learning outdoor skills is a fantastic way for kids to connect with nature while building confidence and independence. Whether it’s mastering archery, learning the art of trapping, honing shooting sports skills, or navigating waterways through kayaking and canoeing, these activities teach valuable lessons in patience, focus, and self-reliance. These skills not only foster a deep appreciation for the natural world but also equip children with the knowledge and abilities to safely and confidently explore the outdoors.
In the Sioux Falls area, there are excellent programs and facilities dedicated to teaching a wide range of outdoor skills. From archery ranges and shooting sports clubs to guided kayaking and canoeing excursions, these local resources offer expert instruction in a supportive environment. Kids can learn the basics of outdoor survival, perfect their aim with a bow and arrow, or experience the thrill of paddling through serene waters. With a focus on safety and responsible outdoor practices, these programs ensure that children gain a strong foundation in outdoor skills while having fun and making lasting memories. Whether your child is a budding archer, an aspiring trapper, or simply loves being on the water, Sioux Falls provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure and skill-building.
Learn about the different outdoor programs offered in the Sioux Falls Area below!
SDGFP Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls
The majority of classes occur at the Outdoor Campus, but some do occur at a variety of locations around town. Classes focus on Hunting, Fishing, Conservation Science, and Outdoor Skills. All of our programming is FREE to the public and experiential in nature. We offer classes for a variety of skill levels from a novice just learning about the outdoors to folks who are seasoned hunters and anglers hoping to further their skills.
COST: Free
AGES: All Ages
SEASONS: Year Round
REGISTRATION: Most classes at the Outdoor Campus require registration. Registration is run through our online Go Outdoors Portal and is open year-round. New classes are released quarterly through program booklets with registration occurring a few weeks after the booklet is released.
The majority of classes require registration through our online Go Outdoors Portal. New classes are released quarterly through program booklets with registration dates following a few weeks after.
Summer 2025 Booklets available April 23. Registration for summer is broken into three months: June registration – May 7 (8am), July registration – June 4 (8am), August registration – July 2 (8am)
Fall 2025 Booklets available August 6 and Fall Registration – August 13 (8am)
Winter 2025 Booklets available November 5 and Winter Registration – November 12 (8am)
Spring 2026 Booklets available January 28 and Spring Registration – February 11 (8am)
More Local Outdoor Programs
Flow and Paddle
JOAD-Minnehaha Archers Inc.
4-H Clubs (County Based)
Crooks Gun Club (Youth Trapshooting)
Izaak Walton Youth Trapping League
Frontier Climbing
Sioux Empire Paddlers (Classes for +13)
