
Nature Immersion
Mental Health Maintenance Program
Rediscover healing through the power of the Appalachian outdoors
The Program
Actively engage in outdoor pursuits while cultivating community and camaraderie, reinforcing bonds and rediscovering nature's healing power.
Location
186 Viney Hollow Rd, McKee, KY 40447 - In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains
Program Hours
Daytime program: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Overnight guests arrive after 5:30 PM
Who Can Attend
Open to all first responders and military veterans regardless of outdoor experience level
Service Dogs
Service dogs are welcome. Family-focused dates available separately
Outdoor Therapeutic Activities

"Heroes Helping Heroes Heal"
What to Bring
Meals provided: Dinners and breakfasts (oatmeal, bars). Mobility support available via side-by-side transportation.
Experience the Immersion
Watch our program in action and hear from those whose lives have been transformed through nature
Camp Hero KY Promo Reel
A look at what our Nature Immersion program is all about
Nature Immersion Program
Discover how nature heals — the Camp Hero KY story
Mental Health Benefits
Scientific research confirms what we've always known – nature heals. Discover the proven mental health benefits of nature immersion.
Stress Reduction
Nature exposure lowers cortisol levels, reduces blood pressure, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system for deep relaxation.
Anxiety Relief
Scientific studies show nature-based interventions significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall mood and emotional well-being.
Cognitive Benefits
Time in nature improves working memory by up to 14%, enhances attention span, and increases cognitive flexibility.
Immune System Boost
Forest bathing increases natural killer cell activity, strengthening your body's defense against illness and disease.
The Science of Forest Bathing
The Japanese practice of "Shinrin-yoku" (forest bathing) has been scientifically proven to lower cortisol, boost immune function, and improve sleep quality.
Upcoming Program Dates
Join us for a transformative day of nature immersion and mental health restoration
August 22nd, 2026
Backcountry Communication and Navigation
In this program, participants will learn the essential skills needed to travel and communicate safely in remote environments. We will cover practical navigation methods including map and compass work, understanding coordinates such as latitude and longitude, UTM and USNG and how to orient yourself and move confidently through unfamiliar terrain. These are foundational skills that allow individuals to know where they are, where they need to go, and how to make sound decisions when conditions change.
Participants will also gain hands-on experience with backcountry communication tools such as handheld radios and antenna systems, learning how to extend communication beyond normal cell coverage. By combining navigation and communication skills, students build a complete system for operating in remote areas with greater safety and awareness. These are practical capabilities used by outdoor professionals, search and rescue teams, and backcountry travelers who depend on reliable communication and accurate navigation when it matters most.
September 14th, 2026
Outdoor Problem Solving and Teamwork
This is a set of training exercises pulled directly from training high level military personnel. Participants will work together to complete tasks that require planning, cooperation, and creative thinking. These activities are designed to build confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Throughout the program, participants will face challenges that require them to communicate clearly, develop a plan, and adapt when things do not go as expected.
These exercises help build resilience, patience, and leadership while reinforcing the importance of teamwork and clear communication. The goal is for participants to leave with stronger problem-solving skills, improved confidence, and a better understanding of how to work together to accomplish difficult tasks.
All of this will include nature immersion experiences and will include educational aspects of all things outdoors in your development.
Looking for agency or organization-specific dates?
Request Custom Dates for Your OrganizationAgency & Organization Programs
Exclusive Group Reservations
Agencies and organizations can reserve their own specific dates for Nature Immersion Courses, for up to 25 participants. Courses can also have curriculum tailored for that agency and organization. All courses are free to the agency, for the single day events.
Perfect For:
Experience the Outdoors
Glimpses of nature immersion activities and the healing beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.










Get in Touch
Ready to begin your healing journey? Contact us to learn more or sign up for a program.
Mailing Address
4184 Needlerush Dr
Lexington, KY 40509
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you're an individual looking for healing through nature or an organization seeking a transformative experience for your team, we're here to help.