Black Outside, Inc

"Once I get down from the mountain, I feel like I can do anything!"

Black Outside, Inc. believes every young person deserves to experience the wonder and transformative power of nature... From witnessing the rush of a waterfall to standing atop their first mountain peak, we create life-changing outdoor experiences that foster confidence, creativity, and deep connections with the natural world. Based in San Antonio and serving Central Texas, we're proudly breaking down barriers to ensure all youth have access to the healing and adventure that nature provides.

At the heart of our work is Camp Founder Girls: America's first historically Black summer camp for girls, founded in San Antonio in 1924, which we proudly revived to continue its powerful legacy which serves over 300 youth annually. We also foster spaces of healing, leadership development, and adventure through our year-round program Brothers With The Land, serving Black boys across San Antonio while partnering with local community organizations to expand access to the outdoors through family programming.

Through diverse outdoor experiences including backpacking, kayaking, climbing, and community gardening. From bonnet nights at summer camp to night hikes that honor the strength of our ancestors, our programs create brave spaces where Black youth can bring their whole selves to the outdoor experience.

With only 1% of Texas state park visitors identifying as Black, we're working to change the narrative of who belongs in outdoor spaces. Since 2019, we've connected over 800 youth to transformative outdoor experiences, with 70% experiencing their first camping trip, first hike, or first visit to a state park through our programs. 

No matter the amount you give, every donation big or small, helps us continue our mission to ensure all youth have to the beauty and wonder of the outdoors.