Campfire – North Central Washington – | Light the Fire Within

Environmental Education


Outdoor Education at Camp Zanika Lache

For more than 90 years, Camp Zanika Lache has introduced generations of students to the wonders of the outdoors. Our outdoor education programs invite learners to explore, discover, and connect with nature in meaningful and hands-on ways.

A Perfect Setting for Learning

Our camp can accommodate up to 95 students and staff, with rustic cabin lodging and a welcoming, family-style Dining Hall where meals are prepared and served by our kitchen team. Nestled within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, one of Washington State’s most pristine natural areas, Camp Zanika provides immediate access to towering pines, diverse wildlife, and the beautiful shores of Lake Wenatchee. It’s an ideal backdrop for taking learning outside the classroom and into the heart of nature.

Aligned With Washington State Learning Standards

Camp Zanika’s curriculum supports:

  • Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS / NCIS)

  • Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

  • Career Connected Learning (CCL)

Our activity modules are designed to meet the needs of public, private, and home school groups, with lessons tailored for students in grades 3–8. From forest ecology and watershed studies to team-building and leadership development, each program promotes curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship.

Safety and Professional Standards

Camp Zanika Lache has completed the Management Camp; Safety Review, demonstrating our commitment to minimizing risk and maintaining high standards for student and staff safety. Our documented policies, procedures, and emergency plans meet professional expectations for Outdoor School programs across Washington State.

Experienced and Supportive Staff

Our friendly, trained staff guide students through hands-on learning experiences grounded in Washington State environmental science outcomes. We create a supportive environment where students can explore confidently, build new skills, and understand the natural world around them.

Activity Modules

Camp Zanika’s Outdoor Education program offers a wide variety of hands-on activity modules designed to engage students in learning, adventure, and environmental exploration. Programs can be customized to fit your curriculum needs and learning goals.

Our Activity Modules Include:

  • Archery

  • Boating

  • Low Ropes (All Ages)

  • High Ropes (5th Grade & Up)

  • Wildlife Ecology

  • Forestry

  • Wetland Ecology

  • Outdoor Living Skills

  • Hiking

  • …and much more!

Students explore the natural world through interactive lessons, guided challenges, and outdoor adventure—right along the shores of Lake Wenatchee.


Lodging & Meals

Schools may choose a 2-night or 4-night stay. Students and chaperones bunk in one of our 12 rustic log cabins, falling asleep to the sounds of rustling pines and gentle waves.

Meals are served family-style in our spacious dining hall, featuring a variety of kid-friendly options and classic camp favorites.
We happily accommodate vegan, vegetarian, and other dietary or special needs with advance notice.


Affordable, Accessible Outdoor Education

We understand school budgets are tight, and our program is designed to be cost-effective without compromising quality.

  • Fees are per student,

  • A minimum of 40 students is needed to book a group,

  • Fees include meals, snacks, lodging, and all activity modules,

  • Chaperones are half price and one free chaperone for every 10 students.

  • Additional discounts may be available—just ask!

Our goal is to help every school experience outdoor learning in a way that is financially manageable.


Learn More or Book Your Program

To find out more about the Outdoor Education program at Camp Zanika or to schedule a session, please email:
CampFireNCWOutdoors@gmail.com


Interested in Working in Outdoor Education?

We’re always looking for enthusiastic staff to join our team!
Fill out the Camp Zanika staff application to apply.

Our Promise

Young people want to shape the world.

Camp Fire provides the opportunity to find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.

In Camp Fire, it begins now.

Light the fire within