Queer Belonging Backpacking Adventure is a paid outdoor program from June 13th to June 29th. This program is for high school aged youth who identify as Queer, Trans, Black Indigenous and People of Color. During the program, we will explore the themes of Queer belonging through community building, discussions, art, and outdoor adventures including backpacking, camping, and learning in nature. Participants will develop a deep sense of belonging within the affinity group and a connection to natural spaces. This program helps to create a safe space in which youth can connect on what it means to be QTBIPOC and learn how to advocate for more welcoming and inclusive spaces for all. 

Schedule & Time Commitments: June 13th - June 29th

• Orientations day(s) 2 days: June 13-14
• Overnight at Rob Hill, San Francisco: June 17-18
• Trip planning & packing: June 19-21
• Backpacking: June 24-June 28 (5 days) 
• Culmination Graduation Day: June 29

Location 

• Meet at the Crissy Field Center (603 Mason St., Presidio San Francisco CA 94129) 
• Backpacking in Point Reyes National Seashore

This Summer program is for you if 

• You are currently in high school. 
• You qualify for free or reduced lunch 
• You identify as a Black, Indigenous, People of Color, Queer, Trans, and Gender Non-binary folx. (Inclusion of folx who identify as mixed, you are still whole!) 
• You are interested in building skills and comfort in outdoor adventures. (You do not need to have experience camping or backpacking) 
• You are interested in discussions of what it means to find belonging in the outdoors. 
• You are interested in cultivating connection to people and natural spaces through hands-on learning with art, journaling, reading, and investigation.  

Next Steps 

• Apply by April 10th and participate in a half-hour interview to be considered.

Our Commitment 

As a nonprofit parks group, we seek to create positive and transformative experiences for all in our parks and open spaces. We believe everyone deserves the freedom, joy, and peace to be respected exactly as they are no matter where they are. We also see the power of nature, public lands, our collective history and times of resistance to inspire and educate. We honor, celebrate, and stand with trans, nonbinary, and LGBTQIA communities.