Our Mission
Outdoor Schools Washington (OSWA) makes possible overnight outdoor education experiences for every child in Washington, so they may create relationships with others and connections with the natural world through curiosity, exploration, and science.
Our Story
OSWA was formed in 2021 for two purposes: to assist schools in arranging overnight outdoor school experiences for 5th or 6th grade students and to support the development of high-quality outdoor learning programs. Our goal is to make overnight outdoor school a permanent part of the education culture in WA State, with fully funded experiences for ALL public-school children.
In the spring of 2025, WA state funding for the Outdoor Learning Grant Program was removed for the 2025-27 biennium. That means, consequentially, our efforts will be converting back to urging legislators and other elected officials to reinstate funding. We need your help.
Need a Reimbursement for 2024-25?
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Funding for Schools
Go here to learn about funding for schools
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High Quality Outdoor Schools
Supports for an excellent program
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Map of Outdoor School Sites
Use the map to locate an Outdoor School
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Safety and Management Review
See which Outdoor Schools are on the list for 2025-26
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Training & Events
Stay up to date with current outdoor school trainings and events.
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School Support
Planning materials for schools
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Parents & Students
Learn what to expect at outdoor school.
With 40+ locations, search and find outdoor school sites that fit your needs.
Each site on the map has completed an annual Safety and Management Review process with Outdoor Schools Washington.
Find an Outdoor School site!
Taking over 90 students to an outdoor education camp is an experience…It's a chance to witness firsthand the growth and development of students as they learn and work together in a dynamic outdoor setting.
— Vinland Elementary School Teacher, North Kitsap School District April 2024
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