MidAtlantic Outdoor School provides safe camping instruction

There’s nothing like falling asleep under the stars. However, many people worry about going camping or taking their families or friends out to a campsite because they haven’t done it before and are concerned about what could go wrong.

That’s where MidAtlantic Outdoor School and its founder/owner Janna Kirby come in. Kirby founded the company to teach families and friends how to camp and enjoy the outdoors safely.

“When you are on a hike or out camping, a small issue can escalate if you don’t know what you are doing,” Kirby said. “A fall can lead to panic if you don’t know what to do.”

Kirby grew up loving the outdoors, and she spent years camping and hiking across the East Coast. During one hike, about 15 years ago, she got lost on a trail and spent 14 hours trying to find her way back in the blinding August heat. That experience gave her the idea to educate herself through wilderness training certification courses, which ignited her passion to share the knowledge with others.

“My passion is to teach the necessary skills so everyone can enjoy everything the wilderness has to offer,” Kirby said. “I teach practical skills to keep you and your loved ones safe during your outdoor adventures.” She offers two courses.

In the Outdoor Enthusiast Course, participants earn the basics of camping, including pitching a tent, building a fire, cooking outside, knot-tying basics and campsite safety. The Outdoor Adventurer Course extends participants’ outdoor skills with basic navigation, shelter construction, how to find clean water, emergency signaling and more.

Most classes are taught at Camp Arrowhead near Lewes. Costs range from $175-$250.

“I want everyone to be able to head out for an adventure, but I want them to do it safely, and learn how to remain calm and keep a positive mental outlook even when things aren’t going well,” she said. “These courses are a great way to gain some knowledge and feel confident for your next camping adventure.”

To learn more and register, go to midatlanticoutdoorschool.com.