About Boojum

The Boojum Institute for Experiential Education is a 501(C)3 nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to helping young people from all backgrounds as well as adults learn more about nature, the environment and themselves. Guided by a mission of “To unlock potential, promote self-discovery, and inspire growth,” the Boojum Institute has provided often life-changing experiences to more than 70,000 people since its creation in 1975.

Utilizing a range of curriculum-focused activities in magnificent settings throughout the West that includes rock climbing, backpacking, river travel and a high ropes challenge course, “the Boojum experience” increases leadership skills and the capacity to work well with others, enhances team performance, and helps participants become better environmental citizens.

With a highly skilled staff and a commitment to safety, and as one of few organizations in the US accredited by the international Association for Experiential Education, Boojum’s programs utilize the impact of nature and experiential hands-on learning to create a powerful experience. As a result, Boojum programs help shape people, young and old, by developing their sense of self-worth, compassion, integrity and strength of character. The result for participants is an increased understanding of their own capacities to learn and lead with others – to the benefit of themselves, their schools, institutions and communities.

Who we are and what we do: Human Development and Environmental Education
The Boojum Institute for Experiential Education offers customized, experiential programs that foster personal growth in a variety of spectacular outdoor settings. Participants on Boojum's are challenged to develop skills in leadership, communication, team building and self-confidence through facilitated adventure experiences.  Boojum courses also promote environmental citizenship through a comprehensive environmental education curriculum. Participants study ecological concepts and environmental issues through hands-on investigations. They develop a closer relationship with the natural world and gain real-life skill in using action strategies for responsible environmental behavior. Boojum courses can be offered in mountain, desert, aquatic and marine ecosystems.

The Boojum Institute's Mission
To unlock potential, promote self discovery, and inspire growth.

What is a Boojum?
Lewis Carroll's poem, "The Hunting of the Snark," features a mythical creature that eludes definition: the magical and mysterious Boojum. Throughout the poem, as the party searches for the Snark, the Boojum regularly appears, challenging the party's narrow focus and obsession with finding the Snark. The moral of the poem is that our rush to reach preconceived destinations can sometimes blind us to the beauty and wonder of the journey. Boojum is about facilitating life's journey. The Institute has taken an image of the Boojum tree, found in central Baja California, as its symbol. The Boojum tree (Fouquieria columnaris) a member of the plant family that includes ocotillos.