Survival Basics
A Foundational Skills Course By Wilderness Wild
Master the basics of wilderness survival and be ready for emergencies in our immersive beginner survival course.
Cost: $450
Prepare yourself for the unexpected with our Survival Basics for Adults course, designed to equip you with essential survival skills and real-world experience to handle emergency situations with confidence. This hands-on course covers foundational skills critical for short- and long-term survival, emphasizing both practical application and situational awareness.
During this course, you will learn:
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Shelter Building: Constructing reliable shelters using natural materials.
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Firecraft: Starting and maintaining a fire in any weather using primitive and modern methods.
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Water Procurement: Finding, purifying, and storing safe drinking water in the wild.
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Basic Navigation: Using maps, compasses, and natural landmarks to find your way.
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Kits: Don't be unprepared! Learn to build a minimal and essential survival kit!
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Rescue: Learn how to signal for rescue and help searchers find you!
Dates & Locations
Payson UT
May 10th -11th
Your Instructor
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Kyle Thomson is a skilled and experienced survival instructor with years of expertise in both teaching and living survival skills. Kyle believes that with the right knowledge and mindset, we can thrive with minimal gear—just as our ancestors did—by learning to use the resources around us and fostering a deeper connection to the land.
With Kyle as your guide, you'll gain a wealth of practical knowledge and hands-on experience that will empower you to approach survival with confidence and self-reliance. His passion for the wilderness and commitment to sharing these essential skills make every lesson engaging, insightful, and inspiring.
Nothing is required!
At Wilderness Wild we like to travel light with minimal gear. Our minimal pack kits provide you with everything you need for the course.
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Twin Size Wool Blanket
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4x6 cotton or wool cloth
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Poncho tarp
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25 ft of 550 cord
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25 ft of bankline
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Mora Companion Knife
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Fire Kit (Bag, 2 lighters, Ferro rod, cotton firestarter)
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Single walled stainless steel bottle
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Bandana
You can bring your own gear, or you can rent or buy a blanket kit from us. Whatever works best for you works for us! Choose your option on the registration page.
Learning & Experience
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable wilderness experience surrounded by Utah’s stunning natural landscapes. Kyle will guide you in essential survival skills through hands-on practice. From mastering fire-making techniques to safely disinfecting water, each lesson is designed to deepen your understanding and confidence in the outdoors.
This immersive approach allows you to not only learn the skills but also apply them in a real-world setting, giving you practical experience that sticks. By the end of the course, you’ll walk away equipped with the knowledge and techniques needed to safely navigate and thrive in the wild. Whether you're preparing for outdoor adventures or emergency scenarios, this course lays the foundation for self-reliance and resilience in nature.
New friends, Lasting Memories
Share The Experience
While attending Survival Basics you'll have the opportunity to learn and share time with other attendees who share your passion for the outdoors and survival skills. This experience creates lasting memories and forges new friendships.
Start your journey Today
Answer the Call of the Wild:
Step into the untamed beauty of nature and awaken your inner survivor with our Survival Basics course. This is more than a class—it’s a transformative journey that taps into your primal instincts and reconnects you with the land. Under the guidance of skilled instructor Kyle Thomson, you’ll learn the art of survival through hands-on experiences like building a survival kit, making fire with minimal tools, disinfecting water, and even sleeping in shelters you create yourself.
By challenging yourself to thrive with what nature provides, you’ll not only gain critical skills but also a profound sense of empowerment and self-reliance. The call of the wild is waiting—are you ready to answer? Book now to embark on an unforgettable adventure that will change the way you see the world and your place in it.
"Thanks so much for an amazing weekend! We learned so much more than I thought we would! I feel more prepared and ready!"
- James Flegal
"Kyle truly has a passion for teaching these skills. I spent allot of time trying to learn the bow drill from other instructors. Kyle Helped me succeed in one day! He truly knows his craft!
- Eduardo Aragon
"I just wanted to say thanks again for an incredible weekend. I learned more than I imagined and had so much fun."
Nick Delgreco
Secure Your Spot Today
Start your Survival Skills Journey With The Survival Basics
Seize control of your fate by joining the Basic Survival Course today. This essential survival course led by Kyle Thomson is path to learning and mastering these critical skills to prepare yourself and you family for the unplanned through the situational awareness you'll learn here. Gear up with the essentials kit and gain confidence to roam wild knowing you have what it takes to tackle emergency situations head on.
This isn't just a skill building course, it's the start in your journey to being prepared.
Reserve your spot and awaken your primal side!
Registration Closes May 1st
Have more questions? We Got You!
Where is the school located?
We are located in Genola, however this course is held in the mountains 30 mins from Payson Utah. The area is a mix of Aspen & Conifer forests with creeks and meadows.
Groceries, fuel, restaurants, and stores are within easy driving distance back down the canyon.
What is the terrain and wildlife?
The terrain is mountainous with a mix of Aspen and conifer forests. There are creeks and ponds throughout the area. Wildlife includes mule deer, elk, moose, black bears, cougars, and small game like turkey, grouse, squirrels, and rabbits.
Do I need bear spray?
Though your instructor will have Bear spray, we do recommend bring your own. We are in the rocky mountains and wildlife encounters do happen. Though those encounters are rare during courses, its better to be safe.
Is cell reception available?
Cell phones generally don't get service here.
There are a couple location off the main canyon road that you can get a few bars.
What type of road leads to the location?
The main canyon road is asphalt and has no issues for even small cars.
The short dirt road to the site is well maintained and easily driven to the parking area.
Is power available?
This is a primitive type camp and no power is provided or available.
Some students bring solar panels or walk back to their vehicle to charge devices
How close is my vehicle to camp area?
Students park 1/2 mile from the camp area and then walk into the course site.
The short walk is easy and not very difficult. The trail is clearly marked.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
We highly recommend students to use their shelters and the shelter techniques from the course.
However sleeping arrangements are up to each student. Most of the time students find a place close to the main camp/group fire.
We can also make a group camp.
Is potable water provided?
We have a small supply of drinking water on hand for emergencies.
Students should bring their own water, or a water filter to use in the local stream and springs.
We recommend bringing plenty of water to stay hydrated, and to use for cooking. Most students keep a case or two of water bottles in their car.
However you bring water, bring plenty!
Is food provided?
We provide the fire, you provide your own food.
Usually everyone gathers around the main fire to cook meals. This provides a good atmosphere to get know each other and to fellowship.
Most students bring a cooler with ice up to the camp site. You can drive the cooler to the camp site if needed.
Are restrooms available?
No, this is a primitive school and camp, even when nature calls..
Is a trash can provided?
No, please come prepared to pack out your own debris.
We want to take care of the land and leave no trace, so you should be prepared to pack out all trash, packages, and wrappers, ect.
We suggest bringing a trash bag.
Is everything on the gear list needed?
Yes. You should bring everything on the list to make the most of your time on the course.
These are the same items you'll bring on all courses in the Pathway series.
What is I am missing some items?
No worries, that's okay. We may have extra materials on hand to help out.
However don't show up unprepared. Contact the instructor and let them know what your missing to see if extra's will be available.
Can I bring anything else?
There are other things you may want to bring, such as a camp chair, maybe a flashlight or headlamp, or even a guitar or instrument for playing around the fire.
Just remember you will have to pack it in. Please keep these extra items to a minimum to get the full experience.
Should I bring any cooking gear?
You will cook your meals around the fire. We provide the fuel and a way to get it going, the rest is up to you.
Many students bring simple dehydrated meals or canned food. Others bring sandwiches, or even a griddle to cook steaks.
What if I don't complete a skill?
That's okay! Keep practicing! There will be plenty of time to practice.
If you need extra help, find an instructor during some down time and they will be glad to help.
What to do in between sessions? Is there down time?
Although there isn't a lot of down time, there will be time between sessions. This is a great time for stories, laughter, and camaraderie.
Some students like to practice their new skills, or get extra help and feedback.
What happens in the evening after classes?
This is a special time! Everyone gathers around the main fire for stories and camaraderie while making their evening meal. Telling campfire stories is a timeless tradition and we encourage everyone to join and enjoy the the experience.
Sometime people may bring out a guitar, flute, or sing songs. The evening fire is sacred space that brings people together.
How can I prepare to get the most out of the weekend?
Bring a positive can-do attitude and eagerness to learn.
We want you to learn, and even get outside your comfort zone so you can get to know yourself better and connect to the natural world around you.
You won't find many experiences like this, so make the most of it while your here!
Can I bring anything else?
There are other things you may want to bring, such as a camp chair, maybe a flashlight or headlamp, or even a guitar or instrument for playing around the fire.
Just remember you will have to pack it in. Please keep these extra items to a minimum to get the full experience.
Should I bring any cooking gear?
You will cook your meals around the fire. We provide the fuel and a way to get it going, the rest is up to you.
Many students bring simple dehydrated meals or canned food. Others bring sandwiches, or even a griddle to cook steaks.
What if I don't complete a skill?
That's okay! Keep practicing! There will be plenty of time to practice.
If you need extra help, find an instructor during some down time and they will be glad to help.
What to do in between sessions? Is there down time?
Although there isn't a lot of down time, there will be time between sessions. This is a great time for stories, laughter, and camaraderie.
Some students like to practice their new skills, or get extra help and feedback.