Back to the Nature

CODE: SDA 25-401

Description: The project takes place in a nature reserve about 3 km away from the campsite in the Bohemian Forest, near Stara Knizeci Hut , an isolated part of the village of Lesna near the German border. The main goal is to help maintain meadows in a nature-protected area and maintain the campsite. This workcamp actively contributes to the achievement of the United Nation Sustainable Development Goal 15 Life on Land.

Type of Work: The main work will consist of mowing, raking and collecting grass on protected meadows, which might be physically demanding. Volunteers will also work directly in the campsite on maintenance tasks and in the nearby forest by doing various manual jobs. At the end of the workcamp, volunteers will help to dismantle the campsite and to transport all the material to Prague where it will be stored during winter.

Study Theme: It includes evening discussions about climate crisis, environment, sustainability and sustainable camps around the fire. Volunteers will have the unique opportunity to try archery, participate in fun games and learn to recognize the stars. Living in close contact with nature, volunteers will improve their camping skills and learn a lot about local fauna and flora

Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in tee-pees with a fireplace in the centre. They will sleep on wooden pads and mattresses stuffed with hay. Volunteers will bathe in a small river with cold water next to the campsite, and the toilets are outdoors. Everyone will cook together as a group on a fireplace. The food is only vegetarian (or vegans / gluten free variants). Cell phones can be charged with a small solar-electricity generator. There is limited phone coverage and no Wifi.

Language: English

Requirements: Age 18-100. Bring a very warm sleeping bag, camping mat and some warm clothes. Bring waterproof working shoes (or rubber boots), gloves, rain gear and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Work gloves will be provided. There is a strict no alcohol and drugs policy at the campsite. Leaving the workcamp earlier is not an option as the last three days are dedicated to dismantling the campsite and transporting all the material to Prague. Pack stuff in a backpack rather than in luggage as forest paths will be taken to reach the workcamp. Be aware of all kinds of allergies (grass, pollen, insects, hay etc.) as you will be outside all the time.

Approximate Location: The workcamp takes place in the Bohemian Forest near Stara Knizeci Hut. The campsite is located in the valley of the Celni stream, an isolated part of the village of Lesna in the Bohemian Forest near the German border. The nearest airport is Praha (Prague) (PRG). The nearest bus stop is Stara Knizeci Hut, and the nearest bigger town is Tachov where ATMs, pharmacies, doctors etc. can be found. The campsite is about 30 minutes walk from the nearest bus station.

Notes: Expect volunteers to enjoy camping and being outdoorsy. This camp is perfect for volunteers who want to enjoy living and working in basic conditions in close touch with nature. The workcamp might also be suitable for people with social, economic and some health disadvantages.

Purpose of extra costs: The extra fee covers costs of the project not covered by public funding (for example support for campleaders, administrative costs of INEX-SDA).

Participation fee: A fee of EUR 25 is to be paid after acceptance. This fee is paid in two installments. The total fee can vary depending on bank rates. The fee is paid in advance electronically and is non-refundable unless proof of severe obstacle (for example illness) is provided

Nearest airport: Praha (Prague) (PRG)

Direction to the meeting points: The nearest bus stop is Stara Knizeci Hut and the nearest bigger town is Tachov where you can find ATMs, pharmacies, doctors etc. The campsite is located about 30 minutes walk from the nearest bus station.