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Skyward is a welcoming, nature-based camp experience designed to help teens slow down, step away from the noise of everyday life, and reconnect with themselves, others, and the night sky. Grounded in research on awe, emotional well-being, and the restorative power of nature, the program invites campers into a meaningful mix of stargazing, reflection, conversation, creative activities, and time outdoors. Throughout the experience, teens can expect supportive leaders, a safe and encouraging environment, and opportunities to build confidence, curiosity, and connection. In return, we ask campers to come with a willingness to participate, respect one another, care for the shared camp environment, and remain open to new experiences. Skyward is not about being perfect or having all the answers. It is about showing up, looking up, and allowing wonder, learning, and community to do their quiet work.

CHECK BACK SOON FOR 2027 CAMPS

Camp Details
Each Skyward camp is designed to be a safe, welcoming, and meaningful overnight outdoor experience for teens 14-18 years of age. Campers will sleep in tents, with available cots, and will be placed in small groups to help build connection, support, and shared experience throughout camp. Families will receive detailed directions, packing lists, and final camp information before their session begins. Campers should come ready for time outdoors, changing weather, group activities, and full participation in the camp experience. Our hope is that each Skyward session feels both adventurous and well-supported, with clear expectations for respect, responsibility, and care for one another and the natural world.

Transportation
Families are responsible for drop-off and pickup at the selected camp location. Campers should arrive by 3:00 p.m. on the first day of camp and be picked up at 11:00 a.m. on the final day of their session. We will send detailed directions and arrival information before camp so families feel prepared and confident about getting there. If transportation/gas costs are a barrier to attending, please reach out to Dr. Allan at [email protected] for additional support. 

Meals and Dietary Needs
Meals are included with each camp session. One-night camps include dinner, breakfast, and snacks. Two-night camps include two dinners, two breakfasts, a lunch, and snacks. We want campers to feel cared for and comfortable, so families are asked to share any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or other important needs during registration. This helps our team prepare thoughtfully for each camper’s safety and well-being.

Medications and Health Support
If a camper will need medication during camp, families should note that during registration. Staff are prepared for emergencies, but families remain responsible for providing medications and necessary health information.  Skyward staff are prepared to support campers in an outdoor setting, and two members of our team are certified Wilderness First Responders for emergencies. 

Gear and Comfort
We know that not every family has access to all outdoor equipment, and we want Skyward to feel accessible and supportive. Limited extra gear, including sleeping bags and flashlights, will be available for campers who need them. We will also have extra jackets and blankets on hand for comfort and changing weather conditions. Families are encouraged to review the packing list carefully and let us know in advance if their camper may need support with basic gear.

Phones and Communication
Skyward is a no-phone zone for campers. This is an intentional part of the experience and helps create space for reflection, connection, rest, and genuine engagement with the night sky and the group. Families will receive staff contact information before camp begins so they can reach the team if needed. If an emergency or urgent concern arises, Skyward staff will contact families directly. 

NOTE
If the camp you are hoping to attend is full, please reach out to us directly. We would be happy to add you to the waitlist and let you know if a spot becomes available. If you are interested in registering a group, please email us as well so we can help coordinate the details.

Please contact Sadie Wilde at [email protected] or Anna Gilliam at [email protected].


    Terms for Campers

    By registering for Skyward, campers and their parent or guardian acknowledge that this is an outdoor, overnight program that includes camping, walking on uneven ground, changing weather conditions, group activities, and participation in structured camp experiences. Camper safety is our highest priority. All campers are expected to follow instructions from program staff at all times, remain with the group unless given permission otherwise, use equipment and camp spaces appropriately, and behave in ways that support the safety and well-being of themselves and others. Respectful behavior is required at all times toward fellow campers, staff, volunteers, and the natural environment.

    Campers must arrive prepared with the required clothing, personal items, medications, and gear listed in the camp packing materials. Any medical, behavioral, dietary, or accessibility needs that may affect participation or safety must be shared fully during registration so staff can plan appropriately. Campers may not bring weapons, alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, illegal substances, or any item deemed unsafe by staff. Skyward reserves the right to contact parents or guardians and dismiss a camper early if behavior creates a safety concern, disrupts the program, or prevents staff from maintaining a safe and supportive environment for the group.

    Participation in Skyward requires a willingness to follow camp expectations, engage appropriately in program activities, and help create a culture of care, responsibility, and shared respect. Our goal is to provide a meaningful and memorable experience for every teen while maintaining clear standards that place safety first.
    PARENTAL CONSENT FOR PARTICIPATION

    I certify that I am the legal parent/guardian of the Participant and give permission for my child to participate in the Skyward program described above, including overnight camping, outdoor recreation, and associated activities.

    I understand that participation may involve travel to and from program locations (if applicable), activities conducted in remote or low-light environments, and group-based supervision.

    I acknowledge that I have had the opportunity to ask questions and understand the nature of the program.

    ACCEPTANCE OF RISKS AND RESPONSIBILITY

    I acknowledge that the Skyward program is inherently hazardous and that participation includes risks, including but not limited to:

    · Tripping, falling, or injury due to uneven terrain or low-light conditions
    · Falls from elevation (cliffs, ledges, overlooks)
    · Inclement weather (heat, cold, storms, wind, flooding)
    · Wildlife encounters (including insects, reptiles, and mammals)
    · Camping-related hazards (fires, stoves, tools, equipment failure)
    · Navigation challenges or disorientation in darkness
    · Limited cell service and delayed emergency response
    · Medical risks (including dehydration, allergic reactions, asthma, anxiety, pre-existing conditions)
    · Transportation-related risks

    I understand that these risks may result in injury, illness, death, or property damage and may arise from known or unknown causes, including the negligent acts or omissions of Utah State University, its agents, officers, and employees (collectively, “USU”).

    I voluntarily accept these risks and agree that I am responsible for ensuring that Participant is physically and medically able to participate. I agree to ensure that Participant follows all safety instructions and program rules.
    MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION

    I authorize USU personnel to obtain emergency medical care for my child if I cannot be reached.

    I understand that I am responsible for any medical costs incurred.

    I agree to provide accurate and complete medical information, including:

    · Allergies
    · Medications
    · Medical conditions or concerns
    SUPERVISION AND CONDUCT

    I understand that participants are expected to follow all program rules and staff instructions.

    I acknowledge that:

    · Participants must remain with the group unless otherwise directed by staff

    · Behavior that is unsafe, disruptive, or violates program expectations may result in dismissal from the program

    · If my child is dismissed, I may be required to arrange transportation at my own expense

    I understand that supervision is provided in a group setting and that reasonable efforts will be made to ensure participant safety.

    • I give permission for my child to be photographed or recorded for educational and promotional use by Skyward and Utah State University Extension.

    • I do not give permission for my child to be photographed or recorded for educational and promotional use by Skyward and Utah State University Extension.

    • I give permission for my child’s photo or video to be shared on Skyward or Utah State University Extension social media platforms.

    • I do not give permission for my child’s photo or video to be shared on Skyward or Utah State University Extension social media platforms.

    RELEASE: I hereby voluntarily release and forever discharge USU from any and all liability, claims, demands, attorney fees, actions, or rights of action which are related to, arise out of, or are in any way connected with Participant’s participation in the Activity, including specifically, but not limited to, the negligent acts or omissions of USU for any and all bodily injury, death, illness, disability, or damage to Participant or to my or Participant’s property. I agree that USU is not liable for inherent risks, negligent acts, or any other liability that may arise in connection with Participant’s participation in the Activity.

    INDEMNIFICATION: I hereby agree to hold harmless and indemnify USU against any and all losses, liabilities, or claims arising out of or connected to Participant’s participation in the Activity. The indemnification obligations outlined herein extend to any and all costs and expenses, including attorney fees, incurred by USU in connection with any such loss, liability, or claim.

    GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE: The Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State of Utah, without regard to conflicts of laws principles. Venue for any lawsuits, claims, or other proceedings relating to or arising under the Agreement shall be exclusively in the State of Utah.

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF EFFECT OF THIS AGREEMENT: I certify that I am the legal parent/guardian of the Participant and understand and acknowledge that by signing this Agreement, I am agreeing to be bound by its terms and conditions. I acknowledge that by this Agreement, I have freely and voluntarily (a) given up certain legal rights and/or possible claims that I or Participant might otherwise assert or maintain against USU, including specifically, but not limited to, rights arising from or claims for the negligent acts or omissions of USU; and (b) assumed responsibility and legal liability for the claims or other legal demands, including defense costs, which may be asserted by third parties against Participant or me as a result of Participant’s participation in this Activity. MY SIGNATURE BELOW INDICATES THAT I HAVE READ THIS ENTIRE AGREEMENT, UNDERSTAND THAT IT AFFECTS MY AND PARTICIPANT’S LEGAL RIGHTS, AND UNDERSTAND THAT IT WAIVES MY AND PARTICIPANT’S RIGHT TO SUE USU.

    For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, please contact Dr. Troy Allan, program director, prior to the event at [email protected].

     Utah State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution and is committed to a learning and working environment free from discrimination, including harassment. For USU’s non-discrimination notice, see equity.usu.edu/non-discrimination.

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