How the DNR May Help Channel My Inner Outdoorswoman

I am not the outdoorsy type at all. I have attempted camping once, and it was...let's just say an epic fail and borderline traumatizing.

I have to admit, lack of enthusiasm and horrible experience may simply be due to the fact that I have no clue how to maneuver myself through the great outdoors. Now, thanks to a new program offered by Michigan's DNR I may actually be able to give nature another shot.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Becoming an Outdoorswoman (BOW) series is a new program designed to help women learn the outdoor skills that are necessary to enjoy all the great activities Michigan has to offer. From hunting, fishing, backpacking, shooting sports, kayaking, the program will offer a mix of outdoor skills over a three-day format and all the equipment is provided for you.

Fuse

Participants need to be at least 18 years old and up to take part in the Becoming an Outdoorswoman program. Those looking to connect with nature will have a chance to choose their program choices from a list of courses offered during the specialty workshop. The general program areas will be : shooting and hunting, fishing, and eco-sports, such as kayaking, camping or orienteering.

Rawpixel

Currently Michigan's Becoming an Outdoors Woman traditional winter and summer workshops are only offered in the Upper Peninsula, however, the have smaller scale “Beyond” workshops that are being held throughout the entire state.

Jupiterimages

The workshops kick off July 24th Women’s Hunter/Firearm Safety Workshop held at Washtenaw Sportsman’s Club in Ypsilanti. This course is online and you can register at hunter-ed.com/michigan/.

Also, on July 24, there will be a Knot Tying and Map Compass Workshop being held at Presque Isle Senior Pavilion, Presque Isle Park, Marquette.

Classes fill up quick so be sure to register right away. You can get more information and register by clicking here. See you in the great outdoors!

LOOK: Stunning vintage photos capture the beauty of America's national parks

Today these parks are located throughout the country in 25 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The land encompassing them was either purchased or donated, though much of it had been inhabited by native people for thousands of years before the founding of the United States. These areas are protected and revered as educational resources about the natural world, and as spaces for exploration.

Keep scrolling for 50 vintage photos that show the beauty of America's national parks.