Queer Belonging Backpacking Adventure is a paid outdoor program from June 13th to June 28th. This program is for high school aged youth who identify as BOTH [Black, Indigenous, People of Color] AND [Queer, Trans, and Gender Non-Binary folx]. 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 28th

Dates: Program times generally go from 10am-3:30pm; Overnights have extended hours

• Friday-June 13 (Orientation, Art workshops)
• Monday-Tuesday June 16-June 17 (Overnight at Rob Hill) 10am start Mon, 3:30 end time Tues 
• Wednesday-Friday June 18-June 20 (Pre-trip hikes, and packing for backpacking trip) 
• Monday-Thursday June 23-26 (4-day Backpacking in Point Reyes) 
• Friday- June 27 (Sea Kayaking in Tomales Bay) 
• Saturday-June 28- Culmination Graduation  

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 identify as a [Black, Indigenous, People of Color] AND [Queer, Trans, and Gender Non-binary folx]. (Inclusion of folx who identify as mixed, you are still whole!)  
• You are in high school or just graduated high school.
• 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 outdoors.   
• You are interested in cultivating connection to people and natural spaces through hands-on learning with art, journaling, reading, and investigation. 

Next Steps 

• Priority applications are due March 1st. We will be accepting applications until April 10th or until the program is full. 
• Click here to apply 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.