Backpack the North Georgia Loop

The Destination

Hailed as "the toughest hike in Georgia", this trail is a triangle formed by the Benton MacKaye Trail, Duncan Ridge Trail and the Appalachian Trail. We'll hike and camp our way along this 55 mile loop.

The Journey

Let the OPC Staff teach you the basics of backpacking, from selecting the right clothing and equipment to properly packing and fitting your backpack. We'll gear up each day to conquer the mileage and pitch our tents at night. Enjoy the camaraderie of a hard days work and getting back to nature.

Dates and Important Information

Trek Hidden Costa Rica

Come along and journey with us through the jungles of Costa Rica. This outdoor leadership course begins with a week of class and outdoor skill development on Oxford's campus, followed by a 11 day field experience in Costa Rica. 

Adventures include hiking and waterfall rappelling in Piedras Blancas, overnight hiking and camping in Corcovado National Park, and whitewater rafting on the Savegre River.

Dates and Information

Explore Alaska Summer Study Away 2024

On this 20-day journey you will navigate Central Alaska. Explore the iconic Denali National Park. Backpack the lush forests and mountains of Chugach National Forest and State Park. From the cockpit of a sea kayak get up close and personal with the glaciers and wildlife of Prince William Sound.

The hallmark of this course is experiential education in which, 'educators purposefully engage with learners in direct experience and focused reflection in order to increase knowledge, develop skills, clarify values, and develop people's capacity to contribute to their communities (Gass, M.A. 2012). This course will provide you with an opportunity to challenge and expand your traditional views of leadership and education.

Dates and Information

Outdoor Rock Climbing

Try the unique experience of outdoor climbing in either a day trip or overnight with your group. For a day trip, head to John Bryan State Park to try climbing in the outdoors with many beginner friendly and more challenging routes. This trip can accommodate 10-20 participants at only $30 a person. For a more extensive climbing trip, try our overnight trip to Red River Gorge, a world class climbing location with beginner friendly to expert routes. Prices vary depending on the needs of the group.

Mountain Biking

While you never forget how to ride a bike, it’s time to take bike riding to a whole new level. Try our 2 hour introduction to mountain biking for only $15 a person. In this experience we teach the fundamentals of mountain biking, and bike around our local trails at Hueston Woods. This trip is designed for smaller groups of 8 or less.

Backpacking

To experience nature at its finest, join us on a customizable backpacking trip. Backpacking is a great way for any group to disconnect from the stresses of daily life, and truly connect with others and nature while hiking and camping. Typically our backpacking trips go to Red River Gorge or Germantown Metroparks, but other locations are available. This trip can be customized to include rock climbing, team building, leadership development, wilderness survival skills, or any other goals your group may have.

Camping Retreat

Have your group grow and develop in a traditional camping environment. Our staff can work with your group individually to determine the needs and goals for the group, and will facilitate activities for the group based off of the goals for the trip. Potential focuses for the trip include team building, leadership, community building, etc. Depending on location, activities, and add-ons (meals, transportation, etc.), prices will vary for this trip.

Wilderness Rescue Immersion Experience

For a unique team bonding and leadership scenario,take your group on our Wilderness Rescue Immersion Experience. This overnight experience is designed to build camaraderie between participants as they participate in a mock search and rescue scenario in the Red River Gorge. This scenario can be flexible depending on the goals of the group, but the standard experience builds leadership skills amongst all participants and allows the group to connect and problem solve in a remote setting.

Request a Quote

Paddle and Pedal

Explore what fun creek paddling can be in an inflatable kayak aka ducky. Let us take you on a true backyard adventure down Four Mile Creek. For this semi-guided adventure you’ll paddle a tandem kayak 4 miles and take-out at Sycamore Bluffs. Here you will trade out your boat for a bike and pedal back to campus.

Please note: Kayaks are tandem so we recommend signing up with a friend.

Eligibility: This adventure may require sections of wading through shallow water and pulling or carrying your kayak in various spots depending on water level.

No prior paddling experience is required, however you must be able to get in and out of the kayak unassisted as well as lift your kayak over rocks during low water. Participants must also know how to ride a bike. 

Program Fee: $40 per person

Register Now!

April 26

May 3

Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor Course

Learn skills, ethics and techniques for educating others about the low-impact practices of Leave No Trace.

*Course Schedule:

- Workshop #1: March 12, 7:00 - 9:00 pm

- Workshop #2: April 2, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

- Overnight Backpacking Trip to Germantown Metropark, April 6 - 7

*Participants must attend all 3 sessions above to be eligible for the Instructor certification.

Course Fee: $200

Register Now