Our Mission
"To enrich and positively impact children’s lives through fun outdoor activities in the peace and quiet of nature."
Young people today are in desperate need of high quality, safe and wholesome activities. The mission of Arizona Outdoor Adventures is to affirm, enrich and positively impact children through the outdoors and all its associated activities.
For over 28 years AOA has been serving children ages 8-14 who have never had the opportunity to experience the peace and quiet of nature, but often spend the long, hot summer in the city where idleness and boredom can lead to destructive choices.
We partner with established youth organizations who will bring 8-10 children for a 3-5 day outdoor adventure. AOA provides the tent camps which are situated in the breathtaking back country of Arizona’s White Mountains. All camping equipment, food and necessary licenses are supplied at no charge. Activities include fishing, hiking, backpacking, outdoor cooking and horseback riding, to name a few. A series of camps are provided from May through October of each year.
Accolades
Dan Priest Inducted Into Arizona’s Outdoor Hall of Fame
Scottsdale, AZ (August 2015) In the summer of 2015, Dan Priest was inducted into the Arizona Outdoor Hall of Fame at the 18th annual Hall of Fame Banquet by Wildlife for Tomorrow. Inducted along side him, Senator John McCain, Audubon Arizona, Jim O’Haco, and John W. Harris. This award is highly esteemed and signifies outstanding contributions to Arizona’s wildlife resources. Watch the short video below highlighting Dan and his contributions over the years!
Dan Priest Honored With the Arizona Elk Society’s President’s Award
Show Low, AZ (June 2019) On June 29, 2019, Dan Priest was honored with the President’s Award for his excellent work over the years bringing our youth from around Arizona into the high country to experience camping, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding and sitting around the campfire learning about conservation and nature in general.
AOA Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors are dedicated individuals who guide Arizona Outdoor Adventures with passion and expertise. Our board members bring diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to promoting outdoor education and adventure, ensuring that our programs continue to thrive and impact the lives of young people throughout the community.