Youth Experience Outdoor Skills and Exploration at "Adventures at the Lake" Camp

Sigourney — Keokuk County youth dove into nature and hands-on learning at this summer’s Adventures at the Lake camp, hosted by the Keokuk County Extension Office. The day camp offered an unforgettable outdoor experience filled with education, creativity, and adventure.

Campers rotated through a series of engaging activities designed to build confidence and survival skills in a fun, supportive environment. Youth participants created animal print molds, crafted first aid kits, and packed their own survival backpacks — all while learning essential backcountry safety skills.

A highlight of the day was “Load the Backpack,” an interactive challenge where youth had to pack the essentials needed for a weeklong backcountry hike, making real-world decisions about weight, nutrition, and gear.

Campers also explored wildlife through animal jaw and hide identification, made nature-based artwork, and let off steam on a rugged obstacle course. Of course, no outdoor adventure would be complete without treats — campers built their own “s’mores in a box” as a sweet send-off to the day.

“Adventures at the Lake is all about giving youth a taste of outdoor living, with a mix of survival skills, wildlife education, and good old-fashioned fun,” said Emily Belvel, Program Coordinator. “These experiences help them grow more independent, curious, and confident.”

The Keokuk County Extension Office thanks all volunteers, staff, and families who helped make this event a success.

For more information about youth programming in Keokuk County, contact the Extension Office at 641-622-2680 or xkeokuk@iastate.edu