RARO Adventures is a program focused on providing vital knowledge and resources that allows local residents (of all ages) to safely experience the many outdoor recreational opportunities that Rockbridge County has to offer.

This program is very new, so please check back for new offerings! 

RARO Adventures would not exist without the help of local partners providing their knowledge!

RARO is once again partnering with the VA Dept. of Wildlife Resources to offer a 4-hour workshop on Backwoods Survival for Hunters & Hikers.

The Rockbridge Area is loaded with opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hundreds, if not thousands, participate locally in hunting related activities and trail hiking annually. Successful hunting and outdoor adventures depend on good planning and preparation, especially with the skills needed to survive the unexpected.  When it comes to the outdoors, hunting and hiking pose the greatest risk of becoming lost, or worse; being lost, injured and unprepared to survive the elements.  When your cell phone loses power and your GPS can’t find a signal, your best hope for making it through, are the skills you’ll learn in this 4-hour block of hands-on, survival training. Led by expert instructors, you’ll practice advanced techniques for making fire in difficult situations. You’ll discover the most efficient methods of using essential survival gear. And, you’ll learn to use those special features of map, compass and the natural surroundings guaranteed to keep you out of trouble or enable self-rescue when the worst happens.  Bring a friend and let us help get you ready for your next outdoor adventure.

Workshop Date: December 14th 9:00am - 1:00 pm

Visit the DWR link to Register: DWR Backwoods Survival for Hunters and Hikers Registration

RARO is EXCITED to announce that they will be working with the VA Dept. of Wildlife Resources to offer the Basic Hunter Education Course locally.

The Basic Hunter Ed course covers material on hunting safety, principles of conservation  and sportsmanship. This program aligns directly with the vision of the RARO Adventures program that focuses on providing knowledge and resources allowing local residents to safely experience the many outdoor recreation opportunities available in our area.

VA DWR volunteers along with RARO trained staff will conduct courses at varying points in the year.

This course is required for 12 years and older wishing to purchase a VA hunting license for the 1st time. Adults wishing to take the course as a "refresher" course are welcome to register.

Those taking the class are required to complete the self-study prior to the class date and will turn in the chapter review exercises from the self-study to the instructor at the beginning of the class. To get your copy of the self-study, please contact the RARO office or visit the following website: Today's Hunter (Study Manual)

Next Course: Date TBD

KAYAKING