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

outdoor campus

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:We release program booklets on a quarterly, seasonal basis with registration coinciding a week or two weeks later.

Summer 2024 Booklets came out April 24. Registration for summer is broken into three months: – June registration was May 8 (8am) – July registration was June 5 (8am) – August registration is July 3 (8am)

Fall 2024 Booklets come out August 7 and registration opens at 8 am on August 14

Winter 2024 Booklets come out November 6 and registration opens 8 am on November 13 Spring 2025 Booklets come out January 29 and registration opens 8 am on February 12

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)