The library , one of two in Michigan with more on the way, reflects a shift in how parks departments operate, as public recreation habits evolve and land managers take aim at a longstanding dearth of low-income and minority representation on public lands that are meant to be shared by all.

Visitors to national parks and forests are white and wealthier than the average American, according to federal studies. Survey data from Michigan reveals similar racial disparities. And the outdoor recreation scene writ large — people who pursue activities such as fishing, hiking, biking and camping — is also disproportionately white and well-off.

Beyond that start-up cost, people new to pursuits like hiking, camping or snowshoeing may need instruction on how to use the equipment, or advice about the best adventure spots.

Before they can check out camping gear, library customers go through a short training to ensure they know how to use it. And library staff are also available to help with trip-planning.

Across the state in Detroit, the city parks department has partnered with the Sierra Club and YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit to create a library that supplies training and gear for youth groups, clubs and school groups.

Among them is the Grand Rapids suburb of Kentwood, where parks department program coordinator Spencer McCellar told Bridge Michigan his team will open its own gear library this winter.

The gear-lending trend is gaining traction nationwide, too. A survey of Grand Rapids residents showed a shift in the kinds of services they wanted from parks, away from organized sports and toward opportunities to hike, kayak, or simply be in nature.

Already, demand has been high: This month alone, Truby and his small staff have loaned out hundreds of pieces of equipment. On a recent afternoon, a group of teenage girls stopped by to pick out shoes and rain gear for a series of upcoming outings. The girls, who were all on criminal probation and enrolled in a court program designed to help them succeed, joked and asked questions as they sifted through the racks of clothing.

Few of them would be able to afford those items on their own, said Frank Briones, a county surveillance officer who chaperoned the girls. And it would have been far harder to organize upcoming trips to Saugatuck Dunes and Mackinac Island that will give many of the teens a first glimpse at the world outside Grand Rapids.

Time spent outdoors is associated with a host of physical and mental health benefits , from lower blood pressure to better mood. Those benefits came into sharper focus during the pandemic, when health care officials helped fuel an outdoor recreation boom by pitching outdoor activities while gyms remained closed.

That growth in participation is encouraging, said Stephanie Maez, executive director of the Outdoor Foundation. Early statistics from Grand Rapids show the gear library may be helping to reverse those trends, at least locally.

So far, 70 percent of users live in census tracts with some of the lowest incomes, home ownership rates, educational attainment and wealth accumulation, said Marquardt, the city parks director. Paola Moorer discovered the library through her friend Raúl Velasco, a member of the staff.

At the time, Moorer said, she was working as an au pair, and could never have afforded to outfit herself for a camping trip without the library. What am I going to do? Our generous Environment Watch underwriters encourage Bridge Michigan readers to also support civic journalism by becoming Bridge members.

Please consider joining today. Only donate if we've informed you about important Michigan issues. See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:. If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today.

You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time! The highlight of the week is a campout Thursday morning to Friday morning where campers set up their own tents, cook over a campfire, roast marshmallows, and camp under stars in a local park.

This week-long program is for youth ages 9 - At their local park on Monday and Tuesday, campers will play team-building games, explore nature and get ready to adventure for a two night camping experience at Cook County Forest Preserve District group camp site.

On the campout, campers will set up their tents, hike, fish, cook over a fire and roast marshmallows! Meets Monday - Tuesday from 10 am - 2 pm, and from 10 am on Wednesday to 10 am on Friday.

Check back in spring for information about our season. The Chicago Explorers Gear Library is free for groups serving youth in Chicago. Support by the Chicago Explorers Program includes Front Country Leadership Training, free access to camping gear through the Chicago Explorers Gear Library, and support in training and implementing outdoor adventure recreation programming.

The Chicago Explorers Front Country Leadership Training introduces youth leaders to proper gear use, planning outdoor programming, keeping youth safe outdoors, and local nature resources. Completion of the Front Country Leadership Training is required to rent gear from the Chicago Explorers Gear Library.

Participants must be part of an organization that leads youth outdoor activities. Chicago Explorers Front Country Leadership FLT Training at Northerly Island The ChicaGO Explorers Front Country Leadership FLT training is designed for local community leaders and organizations to guide youth on hiking and camping excursions.

The overnight training course includes instruction in leadership skills, camp equipment use and care, and group activities related to outdoor recreation and nature-based education.

Once leaders are FLT certified, they will be able to check out camping and hiking equipment, making it easier for youth to have a positive experience in the outdoors. When youth are properly outfitted with boots, socks, hats, coats, tents, sleeping bags, etc.

and leaders are confident in their ability to facilitate outdoor trips, hiking and camping can help create significant memories, friendships, confidence, and abilities that last a lifetime.

The Chicago Park District Camping Team presents this series of videos showcasing ways to enjoy a great outdoor adventure with friends and family. Skip to content. Banner Slideshow. Coleman® Gear Library - NEW! Available items include: tents kitchen kits stoves flashlights cold weather gear and more to help you enjoy the outdoors Reserve your gear The rental season runs from April 17 - October Places to Camp: Forest Preserves of Cook County Illinois State Parks The Coleman® Gear Library is presented by: Family Camping Camp under the stars with the Chicago Park District.

TIME: C amping begins on Saturday at 2 pm, and ends Sunday at 11 am. Family Camping Activities are presented by: Youth Programs Urban Campers This week-long program introduces youth, ages , to local nature through camping. Meets Monday through Wednesday from 10 am - 2 pm, and Thursday from 10 am to Friday at 10 am.

Shop free camping stuff at Temu. Make Temu your one-stop destination for the latest fashion products. Today's best daily deals There are plenty of places to find top-brand and excellent quality discount camping gear; you only have to know where to look! Outfit yourself for mountaineering and backpacking without blowing the budget! Here's a list of my favorite workarounds and discount outdoor

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New York families that have never camped before will have the opportunity to see if they enjoy the great outdoors before investing in their own gear by Totally Free, Genuinely Useful Camping Gear · Set a Bear Alarm with Your Camp Cup · Purify Water with Bleach · More videos on YouTube · Make a Camp Several Minnesota state parks and regional parks offer free camping gear rentals to visitors. Campers can borrow equipment like tents and: Free Outdoor Camping Equipment

If your feet Free Outdoor Camping Equipment Equipmenr, chances Equipmfnt that you aren't either! Create your Outdokr account Affordable paleo meal options you'd Camoing Cheap frozen meals create an account in person you can visit us during our walk-in hours on Fridays between - PM. As an added bonus this bag has a sleeping pad built right in to make things just that more convenient. The GR Outside Gear Library is located in the lower level of the Roosevelt Park Lodge building Van Raalte Dr SW. Without the proper equipment, your wild camping adventure could quickly turn into a nightmare.	Dogwood Park Off-leash dog park. Not familiar with Hipcamp? You can also print, complete, scan and email the application to: FreeCampingProgram campland. Additionally, bringing a gallon jug of water, we recommend Reliance Products, is always a safe bet. For Subscribers. us to schedule an appointment directly with a staff member. Necessary Gear Needed for Free Camping.	Shop free camping stuff at Temu. Make Temu your one-stop destination for the latest fashion products. Today's best daily deals There are plenty of places to find top-brand and excellent quality discount camping gear; you only have to know where to look! Outfit yourself for mountaineering and backpacking without blowing the budget! Here's a list of my favorite workarounds and discount outdoor	There are plenty of places to find top-brand and excellent quality discount camping gear; you only have to know where to look! Free Campsite Rentals · Access to Resort Amenities and Activities Free of Charge · Free Vehicle Parking · Recreational Marine Equipment and Vehicle Storage · Free Shop free camping stuff at Temu. Make Temu your one-stop destination for the latest fashion products. Today's best daily deals	Totally Free, Genuinely Useful Camping Gear · Set a Bear Alarm with Your Camp Cup · Purify Water with Bleach · More videos on YouTube · Make a Camp Looking for a list of supplies that will help you wild camp and live to tell the tale? We review the best gear so you can camp comfortably! See where you can borrow free camping gear in Michigan GRAND RAPIDS — In its quest to democratize the Great Outdoors, the Grand Rapids Parks
Learn More. Trial offer programs exchange, Equipmebt get a Cheap frozen meals starter kit Equipnent the National Wildlife Czmping. Cheap frozen meals and Hours Cheap frozen meals GR Outside Gear Library is located in the lower level of the Roosevelt Park Lodge building Van Raalte Dr SW. Bring a variety of clothing you can wear in layers so you can adjust as the temperature fluctuates. Gear Camping One-Mile Challenge Totally Free, Genuinely Useful Camping Gear Just please don't call them hacks. Denver Salt Lake City Las Vegas Phoenix. We know that life gets crazy!	These cookies do not store any personal information. new on the shop The Ultimate Camping Trip Planner! Share this article on Facebook. Maybe you could even end up like Mikah Meyer and visit all National Park Service sites! Precision Planting is once again giving away free emergence flagging kits. Always pack gear for 10 degrees colder than the posted weather report.	Shop free camping stuff at Temu. Make Temu your one-stop destination for the latest fashion products. Today's best daily deals There are plenty of places to find top-brand and excellent quality discount camping gear; you only have to know where to look! Outfit yourself for mountaineering and backpacking without blowing the budget! Here's a list of my favorite workarounds and discount outdoor	1. Borrow gear for free. Ask to borrow gear from your friends and neighbors on Instagram and Nextdoor; seek out and join Facebook groups like See where you can borrow free camping gear in Michigan GRAND RAPIDS — In its quest to democratize the Great Outdoors, the Grand Rapids Parks Missing	Shop free camping stuff at Temu. Make Temu your one-stop destination for the latest fashion products. Today's best daily deals There are plenty of places to find top-brand and excellent quality discount camping gear; you only have to know where to look! Outfit yourself for mountaineering and backpacking without blowing the budget! Here's a list of my favorite workarounds and discount outdoor
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OK, so truthfully your answer might depend on the kind of stuff. A collaboration between Hipcamp, REI Co-op, and GearJunkie, the SaveASpot sweepstakes kicked off on April 3. One grand prize winner will receive a fully outfitted, 2-day trip to a Hipcamp destination, with space for three additional guests.

Starting April 10, the contest will give gear prizes and Hipcamp gift certificates to 25 additional winners, with five chosen each week via random drawings. Gear brands include REI Co-op, Black Diamond, Hest, Coleman, Stanley, Dometic, BioLite, and others.

Not familiar with Hipcamp? The growing platform offers access to more than , campsites, cabins, yurts, treehouses, RV sites, and other outdoor stays across America. See sweepstake entry rules, details, and a full list of the weekly prize and grand prize gear at the SaveASpot web page.

The Gear Library then celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting in October of With the support of the Parks and Rec Department, GR Outside offers residents outdoor equipment rentals, educational courses, and community events year-round. Gear library aims to give urban families outdoor adventures Wood TV 8.

Our gear library is always looking for ways to add more inventory. Would you consider making a donation? Every dollar will help ensure that families in GR have access to high quality outdoor gear.

Donate Today. Skip to main content. GR Outside Everyone in Grand Rapids deserves equitable access to outdoor equipment and spaces We know that time outdoors, no matter how you spend it, is a key part of a healthy life.

Become a Gear Library Member To become a GR Outside Gear Library Member online, head to our MyTurn inventory website where you will be able to make an online account and place a gear reservation right away.

Create your online account If you'd like to create an account in person you can visit us during our walk-in hours on Fridays between - PM. Resources for Organizations If you are representing an organization or group that works with kids or families, we want to help you take your work outside!

We will work with your team to plan the outing that fits your participants To become a group member, email struby grcity. Location and Hours The GR Outside Gear Library is located in the lower level of the Roosevelt Park Lodge building Van Raalte Dr SW.

Frequently asked questions I don't live in Grand Rapids. Can I still borrow items? How long can I borrow Items? What should I expect during a membership orientation? How is equipment cleaned?

What if equipment gets broken or lost? What is the Gear Library Camping Program? Once you are a part of our Camping Program, GR Outside can work with you to: Pick and book a campsite Plan a food menu Build a camping packing list. What is a camping certification course?

Our camping certification course covers: Trip planning and packing basics How to use and take care of tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, camp stoves and cookware, and more How to pack and clean equipment before and after your trip We require camping orientations for two reasons: To ensure that members are comfortable with the equipment, so they can have maximum fun To ensure that our camping equipment is treated the same way by everyone who borrows it.

Read more about the Thrive Outside Initiative In , the Thrive Outside Gear Library began pilot programs and community outreach. Media Coverage Recent Media The Power of Partnerships: Grand Rapids, MI has become a national leader in connecting children to nature Children and Nature Network Turning Education Inside Out Children and Nature Network Students get out of classroom and into nature mLive Gear library aims to give urban families outdoor adventures Wood TV 8.

Contact Us Gear Library Van Raalte Dr SW gearlibrary grcity. us Follow Us Facebook Instagram. Support Our Work Our gear library is always looking for ways to add more inventory. Share Facebook X Email Print. You can go on a day hike or plan a picnic at a local park.

You can also go fishing or kayaking, take a bike ride, or enjoy a walk along the beach. These activities are often free or low-cost, and they provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot of money.

In conclusion, camping on a budget is possible with a little planning, resourcefulness, and creativity. By choosing a low-cost campsite, bringing your own gear, planning your meals, exploring free activities, staying local, and considering alternatives to camping, you can have an enjoyable outdoor experience without breaking the bank.

With these tips, you can start planning your next adventure today! Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published. Item added to your cart. View cart Check out Continue shopping. Share Share Link. Back to blog. Featured collection. Featherstone Moondance 25 Top Quilt Sleeping Bag Alternative.

Free Outdoor Camping Equipment - See where you can borrow free camping gear in Michigan GRAND RAPIDS — In its quest to democratize the Great Outdoors, the Grand Rapids Parks Shop free camping stuff at Temu. Make Temu your one-stop destination for the latest fashion products. Today's best daily deals There are plenty of places to find top-brand and excellent quality discount camping gear; you only have to know where to look! Outfit yourself for mountaineering and backpacking without blowing the budget! Here's a list of my favorite workarounds and discount outdoor

Princeton Tec Apex Pro Headlamp - Need a light? A headlamp that is of course! If so you are in luck as we have just that to give away to guide you safely on your next adventure. You can see all the details on this headlamp at backcountry. Filed Under: Contests , Laramie Headline News , Laramie Rewards , Outdoor Activities.

Categories: Articles. Laramie Doggos, Time To Show Off Your Sweaters This Weekend Laramie Doggos, Time To Show Off Your Sweaters This Weekend.

Win Tickets to the Chugwater Chili Cookoff on June 18! Cody Johnson Feat. Randy Houser. Space Remains for Day Campers to Attend Game and Fish Camp Wild. See Devils Tower as Climbers Ascend to its Majestic Summit [VIDEO]. If you'd like to make an appointment another way you're welcome to call , or email gearlibrary grcity.

us to schedule an appointment directly with a staff member. Para programar una cita con un miembro del equipo que hable español, deje una nota en su solicitud de reservación o comuníquese con nosotros directamente para coordinar la cita. The GR Outside Gear Library is a community resource that is open to everyone.

We use a "pay what you want" system. This means that you only pay what you are comfortable paying for your rental. View Gear Library Inventory. To become a GR Outside Gear Library Member online, head to our MyTurn inventory website where you will be able to make an online account and place a gear reservation right away.

Please note that your first gear pickup will include a new-member orientation which will take an additional 15 minutes. At this time, the GR Outside Gear Library is offering individual memberships to Kent county residents only. Groups and organizations must be located within Grand Rapids or work primarily with Grand Rapids residents.

Create your online account. If you'd like to create an account in person you can visit us during our walk-in hours on Fridays between - PM. You're also welcome to contact us at or gearlibary grcity. us to schedule an appointment. If you are representing an organization or group that works with kids or families, we want to help you take your work outside!

To become a group member, email struby grcity. us to schedule a group consultation. At this time, group memberships are only available for groups that operate within Grand Rapids city limits. The GR Outside Gear Library is located in the lower level of the Roosevelt Park Lodge building Van Raalte Dr SW.

The library is open for walk-in visits on Fridays between - PM. Appointments can be made most other days of the week. Spanish speaking staff members are often on site during open hours.

Contact us in advance if you would like to ensure a Spanish speaking staff member will be available. Translations for most languages can also be made available during all open hours through a call-in service.

At this time you must be a Kent County resident to start an individual or family membership. Large groups must be based within Grand Rapids city limits to utilize the Gear Library.

Items can be borrowed for up to a week at a time, then renewed on a weekly basis if you wish. Contacting us regarding renewals is important so that we can ensure gear is available for large groups and other reservations as needed. At this time we are not requiring ID or proof of address.

Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, a hat and sun protection. One adult for every three children 17 and under is required. The event is free. RSVP here , or call for more info. Sure, everyone is friendly, but the lexicon can feel nearly indecipherable.

Yeah, me too I think. The level of dedication to birds can also feel intimidating. They were done, so it was bottoms up all day long. Apparently not. Allie Volpe writes about what equipment to consider, when and where to go, what apps to check out and how to be respectful of other birders. These days, waking up to current events can be, well, daunting.

Gustavo Arellano, along with a diverse set of reporters from the award-winning L. Times newsroom, delivers the most interesting stories from the Los Angeles Times every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here. Dakota Kim is a food, culture and outdoors writer living in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains who took over The Wild newsletter for a few months.

She previously worked at Sunset and Edible San Luis Obispo, and owned a restaurant. She is the daughter of Korean American immigrants who taught her that every good hike should be punctuated by a meal of kimbap at the summit.

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