Recreational Services offers two different youth outdoor programs, Wildlife Camps and School of the Wild.

The University of Iowa School of the Wild is a North Central Association accredited Special Purpose School located at Macbride Nature Recreation Area. Local elementary schools experience a five-day program in the fall and spring. There is a two-day program during the winter. The School of the Wild is staffed by certified teachers, science professionals and science/environmental education interns. Course themes include: Prairie/Gardening, Outdoor Adventure, Wetlands, Woodlands and Birds. To sign your school up for a program, call 335-9289.

Wildlife Camps are offered during the summer for area students that have completed 1st through 11th grade. The camps originated in 1985 with the goal of introducing area youth to the beauty and diversity of our natural world through hands-on activities. Students who have completed 9th, 10th or 11th grade may apply to work at camp as assistant counselors in the Kestrel Corps.