Becoming an Outdoors-Woman

Welcoming you to the Outdoors
Glancing around the campfire more often than not you'll see more males than females sharing each other's company and love of the outdoors. Why? A variety of barriers prevent women from participating in outdoor recreation, but typically they were not given an opportunity to learn outdoor skills as girls or young adults. The "Becoming an Outdoors-Woman" program wants to change that.

Our goal is to provide an atmosphere where women feel comfortable learning new skills associated with hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities, in a supportive and non-threatening environment.

Here's Your Opportunity

See the Calendar of upcoming events and workshops

What can I expect from a " Becoming an Outdoors-Woman" workshop?
Workshops span a weekend, usually beginning on Friday around noon and lasting through Sunday noon. The weekend is divided into four sessions and you pick the classes in which you'd like to participate. Typically, 6-8 classes per session are offered.

"I came away from the course with the confidence that hey, I can do this! Not to mention the opportunity to meet folks who share similar interests."
Karen E., Copperas Cove

Class topics are diverse but can be divided into three areas: shooting sports, fishing, and non-harvest activities (like camping, kayaking, and plant identification). As much as possible the classes are taught with the "hands-on" approach and equipment is provided.

"B.A.O.W. really taught me what I needed to know." Mary J., Euless

Usually, workshops are held at summer camps and outdoor learning facilities. The atmosphere is "outdoorsy" but comfortable. Participants are housed in bunkhouses, cabins or dormitory like rooms with modern conveniences like AC, toilets, hot showers, etc.

"It was great fun, and hopefully it will lead to a lasting source of pleasure for me. It truly was a rewarding experience." Nancy F., Austin

Looking for an opportunity closer to home?

Consider joining our affiliate program the Texas Outdoor Woman Network (TOWN). There are several groups in various metropolitan areas of Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I register for a workshop?

Registration materials are mailed (e-mail and regular mail) out 4-5 weeks before the date of the workshop. Or you can print off a digital version of the forms from this website. The electronic forms are accessible at the same time as the materials are mailed.

To add yourself to our mailing list, complete and submit this form.

How much is the fee?

The fee for participation is $185.00 per person (payable by check, money order or credit card). This includes two nights lodging, meals, instruction and equipment use. A few classes will require an additional fee but these fees are known upfront during the registration process.

How long is the workshop?

The workshops begin around 10 a.m. on Friday and end around 1 p.m. on Sunday.

What classes are offered?

At each workshop there are 10-15 different classes offered. During the weekend participants will take 4 different classes in the three-day period. Each set of registration forms provides a brief description of the classes. See 2004 schedule for specific information on classes being offered at a particular workshop.

Will I get all my favorite classes?

We process registration forms on a first come, first serve basis. Every attempt is made to register you for your first choice classes, but sometimes they become full and we’ll have to enroll you in your second or third choices. The registration packet will provide clear instructions on how to list your top picks.

How will I know what my class schedule is?

A confirmation packet will be mailed to you approximately two weeks before the date of the workshop. It will provide information on your class schedule, directions to the facility, a packing list, and other necessary details.

What am I required to bring?

When you register for the workshop a suggested packing list is made available to you. Mainly, you’ll need to provide your own clothing, bedding (sheets, sleeping bag, pillow, etc.), linens (towel, washcloth), and traditional camp items like a flashlight, rain jacket, sunscreen, etc. We provide all the recreational and safety equipment necessary to participate in the classes.

I have other questions - Who do I call?

Phone: (512) 970-9247
E-mail: BAOW@tpwd.state.tx.us