Jul 05, 2024
OHIO University Undergraduate Catalog 2023-2024

REC 1000 - Fundamentals of Backpacking


Introduces students to the knowledge and skills needed to safely and enjoyably participate in overnight backpacking experiences. Topics include trip planning, equipment selection and use, nutrition and meal planning, navigation and travel techniques, campsite selection, water treatment, cooking, human waste disposal, environmental ethics, safety and risk management, and the benefits of backpacking.

Credit Hours: 1
OHIO BRICKS Bridge: Learning and Doing
Repeat/Retake Information: May be retaken two times excluding withdrawals, but only last course taken counts.
Lecture/Lab Hours: 2.0 laboratory
Grades: Eligible Grades: A-F,WP,WF,WN,FN,AU,I
Learning Outcomes:
  • Students will be able to identify and describe equipment, clothing, and accessories needed for safe and enjoyable backpacking.
  • Students will be able to formulate an energy control plan that takes into consideration such factors as nutrition, fitness, and the physical demands of backpacking.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in basic land navigation and travel techniques while backpacking.
  • Students will be able to discuss and implement principles of campsite selection in the backcountry.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate personal care related to health and wellness in the backcountry, including thermoregulation techniques and personal hygiene.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to procure and properly purify water in a backcountry environment.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to operate and maintain a basic backpacking stove safely and efficiently.
  • Students will be able to apply knowledge from the discipline of environmental ethics to minimize environmental and social impacts related to backpacking.
  • Students will be able to apply basic principles of safety and risk management in minimizing accident potential in backpacking.
  • Students will be able to develop trip plans for multi-day backpacking trips and engage in backpacking as an ongoing leisure pursuit.
  • Students will be able to articulate the general value of backpacking to themselves and to society from various disciplinary perspectives, including such disciplines as natural resource management, public health, and parks, recreation and leisure studies.


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