Many people remember summer camp as one of the highlights of childhood, but for a lot of queer or trans folks, overnight camps were a source of trauma and stress. That’s why there are several organizations across the country working to create the summer camp experience and memories a lot of LGBTQ+ people never got to have.
From the woods of Oregon to North Carolina’s own Triad area, there are opportunities for folks to create new and better memories.
Guilford Green Foundation’s Camp OUT
Guilford Green Foundation and LGBTQ+ Center is a donor-supported organization located in Greensboro, working to ignite change that advances equality for the LGBTQ+ community in the Triad.
Founded in 1995 as the HIV/AIDS service organization Triad Health Project (THP), the addition of an LGBTQ Center came about in 2017. Currently, the organization is located at N. Greene Street in the heart of Downtown Greensboro.
The Guilford Green Foundation is one of the most solid and active LGBTQ+ organizations in the state and creates programming for LGBTQ+ adults of all ages, including the year ‘round Camp OUT events.
Camp OUT is dedicated to creating inclusive outdoor experiences for the LGBTQ community to connect with each other and nature. Events are open to everyone that wants to explore the outdoors, regardless of your level of experience.
Following a successful Camp OUT getaway just last month, the organization confirmed there’s more to come as the spring and summer progresses.
Themes and locations often vary from single afternoon experiences to weekend-long events, but frequently include beginner through accomplished level hiking, biking, kayaking and camping, as well as evening campfire opportunities for hot dog roasting and s’more toasting.
Most getaways have a suggested donation fee, but anyone can participate regardless of ability to pay. Donations that are received are used to offset the cost of equipment rentals and fees.
More information can be found at https://guilfordgreenfoundation.org/ and on the groups’ social media pages.
Wild Diversity
Located in Portland, Oregon, Wild Diversity is a nonprofit organization which “aims to help create a personal connection to the outdoors for Black, Indigenous, all People of Color (BIPOC) and the LGBTQ communities through outdoor adventures and education.”
Wild Diversity’s various programming, which includes day and weekend trips and workshops, is meant to help build a sense of community as well as provide resources to help provide equitable equitable access to outdoor activities.
“At the core of Wild Diversity’s mission is a deep commitment to nurturing the growth and learning of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities,” the website states. “We are industry leaders in transforming individuals into joy seekers, adventurers, and leaders. This transformation occurs through our holistic approach, which combines community workshops, adventures, outings and the unifying power of community.”
Upcoming events can be found at https://wilddiversity.com/upcoming.
Venture Out
Venture Out is a nationwide 501(c)3 aiming to teach queer adults and youth backpacking skills, offering both day and overnight experiences. Its founder, Perry Cohen, created the Venture Out Project to make “outdoor activities more accessible and welcoming for the LGBTQ+ community.”
“The Venture Out Project envisions a world where queer, trans and LGBTQ+ youth and adults create community, develop leadership skills and gain confidence through the shared experience of outdoor adventure and physical activity,” the organization’s mission statement reads. “[We aim] to provide a safe and fun space for queer, trans and LGBTQ+ people to experience the outdoors, [as well as] provide education and support that helps schools and organizations affirm their LGBTQ+ community members.”
More information about summer sessions and local chapters can be found at https://www.ventureoutproject.com/trip-sign-up.
Camp Camp
Camp Camp was established in 1977, providing a haven for LGBTQ+ adults seeking a respite from the demands of daily life while fostering a sense of community and belonging. Nestled amidst serene natural surroundings in central Maine, this camp offers a diverse range of activities from hiking and canoeing or yoga sessions and arts and crafts.
Through shared experiences and open dialogue, campers forge deep connections, finding solace in a supportive environment where their identities are celebrated rather than judged.
According to the website:
“Since its inception, Camp has grown into a community of people — people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or somewhere in between (and even a few who identify as straight as well) — who enjoy a variety of social, athletic and cultural activities together throughout the year. “
More information about Camp Camp can be found at https://www.campcamp.com/camp-camp-dates-rates/.
