Are Base Camp programs for business groups as well?
You bet. All our programs are designed to suit the needs of your group, whether you’re from a school, business, community organisation, sports team or something else entirely.
Will we be roasting marshmallows?
Naturally - as long as conditions are safe for a fire. In general, we might have small campfires for groups, as well as a bigger bonfire in our Amphitheatre. If the conditions aren’t suitable for a fire, we get creative with our camp kitchen.
How do I book?
First, get in touch with Optimum Experiences so we can design a program just for you. We’ll then set you up with a profile on VenueLife, where you can register and provide important information like group allocations, dietary requirements, emergency contacts and medical plans.
Do I need my own sleeping bag?
Yes, and please also bring a pillow. If you’re in a tent, you’ll need a sleeping mat too (but not if you’re in a cabin based program). You’ll find a full list of what you need to bring under our Resources section below.
What are the bathroom facilities like?
Learning how to take care of business in the bush is an important life skill! Toilets and bathrooms are part of the facilities at the Optimum Experiences Centre at Fitzroy Falls.
On Expedition, participants will have the full outdoor bathroom experience - privately, safely, hygienically and in a way that protects our environment.
What should I bring to an Optimum Experiences program?
Great question! You’ll find a list of what to bring under the Resources section of this page. After we’ve designed a bespoke program just for your group, we’ll also provide a handy packing list.
What’s the food like?
We think the food is great! Optimum Experiences provides three meals a day, as well as morning and afternoon tea. Thanks to our incredible Logistics Coordinators, meals are cooked fresh at the campground, using our commercial kitchen or on the BBQ or campfire.
As we design the program for your group, we’ll collect information about dietary requirements and allergies, via our easy-to-use booking system, VenueLife.
Do all staff members have Working With Children Checks?
Absolutely. Our qualified, experienced outdoor educators are our greatest asset. Meet the team.
Will I need to carry my own pack?
With help, yes. However, each Optimum Experiences program is custom designed, especially for your group. Get in touch to learn how we cater to groups of all ages, numbers and abilities.
How challenging will it be?
Every individual has their own challenges. We take great pride in tailoring our experiences to suit each group so that our programs exceed expectations. Our experienced, professional outdoor educators ensure participants feel safe and secure, while also helping to build a non-judgemental, supportive community of peers.
Will you come to us?
Absolutely! Optimum Experiences is a fully mobile company. We can bring our gear and our team members to your premises for an adventure day, a mini camping experience or an Expedition to a nearby natural wonder.
Does Optimum Experiences run the Duke of Edinburgh program?
We facilitate the Duke of Edinburgh program at Bronze, Silver, Gold and International levels. Check out our Adventures for some awesome photos.
What other types of programs do you run?
As well as our Base Camp program, Optimum Experiences runs a range of customised outdoor education programs for school groups and more: Centre Based, Coastal, Expeditions, Leadership. On our Adventure programs, we take participants abseiling, canyoning, mountain biking, skiing and more.
At Optimum Experiences, ensuring your safety is paramount. From navigating towering high ropes to leisurely strolls in the bush, rest assured that our capable hands have you covered. Our guides possess full qualifications, including first aid and providing emergency medical care in remote locations.
We partner with Emergency Australia to offer our team members nationally recognised courses for training and professional development. Our top-quality gear comes from our preferred supplier, Equipped Outdoors.
On the banks of the Shoalhaven River, about 3 hours south of Sydney, our Base Camp at Coolendel is surrounded by Morton National Park with its spectacular gorges and pockets of rainforest. Taking in Mount Grady and the river, our trails for bushwalking, mountain biking and high-rope activities are truly spectacular.
Accommodation is in two-person, double-walled, waterproof tents. Students work together to cook on fuel stoves and manage the camping ground, supported by an Optimum Experiences team member and a teacher.
Coolendel is a wide, open space home to grassland and wildlife - you may spot wombats, kangaroos and goannas. Easily navigated paths lead to camping areas, shelters and exciting spots like Jump Rock, Sandy Beach and Coolendel Rapids. We partner with Gadhungal Marring to provide rich learning experiences, fostering connection to country and culture. Students might take part in a smoking ceremony or sessions on Indigenous dance, language or art.
With our sequential learning design for outdoor education, we tailor our school camps to your group.
