Outdoor Fayetteville

Outdoor Fayetteville is an experiential based program designed to offer introductory outdoor recreation opportunities for individuals and families who may not have the equipment or experience needed to enjoy the outdoors.

Outdoor Recreation provides numerous benefits to physical, mental and emotional health. This program will provide an outlet for individuals and families to build stronger relationships and connect with the outdoors while also building new skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Here are the program offerings for Outdoor Fayetteville:

       • Archery Basics

       • Backcountry Cooking

       • Kayaking and Canoeing

       • Day Hikes

       • Mountain Biking

       • Kayak Polo

Outdoor Fayetteville provides the equipment, instruction and opportunity to learn a new hobby and explore some of Fayetteville’s most beautiful natural scenery. Participants need only bring clothing, food and water. Lifejackets are required while on the water and will be provided.

Please contact Mark May at mmay@fayetteville-ar.gov or 479-718-7681 for any questions. 

Kayaking and Canoeing

Outdoor Fayetteville will teach adults and youth basic kayak and canoeing skills needed to safely and confidently paddle in flat water as well as the many creeks and rivers around Northwest Arkansas. No experience is necessary, and all equipment will be provided. Lifejackets are required at all times while on the water and will be provided. $10 Individual / $45 Family

Hiking

Outdoor Fayetteville utilizes Fayetteville’s trail systems to provide community members with training, education and an unforgettable experience. Day Hikes offer participants the perfect opportunity to discover nature within their city limits and learn the keys to properly prepare for a backpacking trip while gaining experience and comfort with backpacking equipment. Come out and experience the beauty of Fayetteville on this 3-5 mile hike. $10 Individual / $40 Family

Mountain Biking

Fayetteville hosts numerous trail systems for beginners and experienced bikers alike. Outdoor Fayetteville offers quality bikes and instruction to get everyone on the trail! The program focuses on the basics of biking to provide participants with the knowledge and experience to begin their own mountain biking adventures. $20 Individual

Backcountry Cooking

Everyone loves to eat! Come join the fun and learn how to prepare and eat good food in the backcountry. From smoked summer sausage and jambalaya to pesto pizzas, there are no shortage of options to prepare and enjoy! Check out the Backcountry Cookbook for more ideas to try on the next great adventure! All cooking and food preparation equipment is provided. $5 Individual / $20 Family

Archery Basics

Archery is something the whole family can enjoy. Whether competing for points or practicing for hunting season, come and enjoy the fun. Outdoor Fayetteville provides the equipment and targets needed. $10 Individual / $40 Family

Kayak Polo

Kayak Polo is a great way to practice paddling skills while having fun playing a family-friendly game. Participants divide into teams and play kayak polo while working on paddling skills and beating the summer heat. All equipment is provided. Grab a suit, towel and water bottle and come join in on the fun! Have your own kayak? Bring it and meet a new kayaking partner. $10 Individual 

In the case of inclement weather, Outdoor Fayetteville sessions may be rescheduled or moved to another location. Details of these changes will be communicated via email to all participants. 

Recreation program registrations are non-refundable. Requests for refunds in exceptional cases may be considered on a case by case basis in the circumstance of: relocation, medical condition, or injury, or as stated in the specific program refund policy. Approved refunds are subject to a 10% administrative fee. All requests for refunds must be made within 60 days of the original transaction and must be within the same calendar year. Fees may be transferred and applied to another session, if space permits. All transfers must fall within the same year.