Introduction to Survival

Black Oak Wilderness School Adult Survival Basics is a welcoming weekend immersion designed to build confidence, practical skill, and calm competence in the outdoors. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a stronger foundation, this course focuses on essential introductory skills including safe tool use, multiple fire-starting methods, shelter principles, water purification, self-rescue/first aid, and survival decision-making.

We arrive Friday evening to set camp, share dinner, and gather around the fire for a relaxed opening discussion about goals, experience levels, and what each participant hopes to gain from the weekend. Saturday begins with an in-depth firecraft block covering ignition methods, tinder selection, fuel processing, and efficient fire lays, followed by afternoon shelter building using improvised materials and natural principles. We return to the fire in the evening to prepare and enjoy a shared meal together.

Sunday begins with early morning awareness training to sharpen observation and presence, followed by breakfast and practical…