Wilderness Survival and Bushwacking

For fifteen years, Jim Merritt led groups of school kids and adults on hikes in Stokes State Forest near NJSOC. On Saturday, Jim will once again lead a group on a bushwhack hike in the forest. He will be your guide for a hands-on session where you may build fires, construct shelters, and taste some local plants. Jim’s famous quip is, “I’ve never been lost, but once I was confused in the woods for three days.” Join us for this rain or shine* event that offers the perfect blend of hiking and survival skills with a healthy dose of humor!

*Remember, there is no such thing as “bad weather,” it is only inappropriate clothing that leads to discomfort.

The Friends of the New Jersey School of Conservation is a U.S. tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. When NJSOC closed in July 2020, the Friends launched a campaign to save it. This ultimately led to negotiations with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, owners of NJSOC, to obtain an interim management agreement for the School. This agreement was finalized in April 2021, and the Friends of NJSOC are proud to offer limited programming at NJSOC with the help of dedicated and talented volunteers. We are pleased to register you for one of our programs!