Now enrolling: December Mini Semester · Regular sessions return in January

Ages 7–12 · drop-off

Modern Bushcrafters Club: bushcraft for kids 7–12

Real tools, muddy hands and room for big ideas. Our Friday after-school club gives older kids the skills, trust and time to build things that matter to them.

A child in safety glasses using a cordless drill on a log while a volunteer steadies it

What kids do

The Modern Bushcrafters Club is forest school for older kids who are ready for more responsibility. Sessions mix hands-on skills with plenty of free time to put them to use.

  • Saw safety and power drills, always with safety glasses and a volunteer close by.
  • Shelter building, from frames to finished roofs, often over many weeks.
  • Knots and lashing for building, hauling and camp tasks.
  • Clay work and natural crafts using what the forest gives us.
  • Hiking and navigation through the Greenbelt, including night hikes.

Safety first, then trust

Every new member starts with a tool safety workshop before touching a tool. From there, kids earn more independence as they show they’re ready. Our volunteer team includes a dedicated tool lead and an experienced bushcraft guide.

How a season ends

Our fall 2026 season wrapped up on November 6 with a flashlight night hike after the clocks changed and cocoa in the cabin. Next season will be announced soon in the family portal and on Instagram.

Coming up

Next Bushcrafters season

Full schedule
A child in safety glasses using a cordless drill on a log while a volunteer steadies it
Drop-off · Ages 7–12

Modern Bushcrafters Club

Fridays · 4–6 PM · next season announced soon

Saw safety, shelter building, clay, knots and power drills. Every new member starts with a tool safety workshop. Younger siblings welcome when a caregiver stays.

Real toolsDrop-offAfter school
See portalsingle sessions or the rest of the semester
Next season soon Get a portal account: Modern Bushcrafters Club

Questions

Modern Bushcrafters Club FAQ

See all FAQs

Is it safe for kids to use real saws and drills?

Supported risk is part of forest school, and safety comes first. Tools are introduced step by step, every Bushcrafters member starts with a tool safety workshop, children wear safety glasses, and volunteers stay close. Facilitators quietly observe and assess risk throughout every session.

What happens when it rains or snows?

We play outdoors year-round, so rain boots, snow gear and sunscreen all get their moment. We only pause a session when conditions become unsafe, such as high winds, storms or extreme temperatures. Weather calls are based on the “feels like” temperature, wind speed and overall safety. Please check your email before each session for updates.

Where do you meet?

At William H. Pouch Scout Camp, 1465 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 10314, in the Staten Island Greenbelt. Meet at the Scout Shop parking lot, then it’s a 5-minute hike on a gravel trail with some hills. Heavy-duty strollers or wagons work best. Plan your visit.

Do you offer scholarships?

Yes. Need-based scholarships are available so cost never keeps a family out of the woods. Call or text (929) 321-0552 or message us on Instagram or Facebook before you register. Donations to Forest School for All help fund scholarships.

How do I register and pay?

Registration and payment happen in our secure Oakline family portal. Create a free family account, sign the consent forms, then choose your sessions and pay. See how registration works.