Why Boys Need the Wild: The Power of Outdoor PlayUnstructured Adventure and U

Why Boys Need the Wild: The Power of Outdoor Play and Unstructured Adventure

November 12, 2025

There’s something about wide-open spaces that brings out the best in boys.

Dirt under their nails, wind in their hair, freedom in their stride…these moments are more than just play. They’re vital to how boys learn, think, and grow. In today’s structured world, outdoor exploration is often squeezed out by screens, schedules, and homework. But for young boys, adventure isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.

Unstructured Adventure Builds Creativity

When boys are free to explore — without constant adult direction — they learn to think creatively and manage risk. They test boundaries, invent games, and negotiate rules with friends. That autonomy builds confidence and leadership.

Why the Wild Matters

Adventure in nature helps boys reconnect with something deeply human: curiosity, courage, and wonder. These are the roots of lifelong learning and healthy masculinity — qualities the world needs more of. Letting boys get muddy, climb trees, and find their own way isn’t messy parenting — it’s mindful parenting. And at Winaukee, it’s what we call a normal Tuesday.

The Science of Outdoor Play

Studies show that time in nature boosts focus, reduces anxiety, and strengthens problem-solving. For boys who may struggle to sit still or channel big energy, outdoor play offers a natural reset.

At Camp Winaukee, we see that every day. Whether it’s building a fort in the woods or learning to navigate a canoe, boys discover how capable they really are when the world becomes their classroom.

Ashleigh Jackowitz

Ashleigh grew up in Boise, Idaho and got her first taste of sleepaway camp in 2006 when she was hired to work on the waterfront at Camp Walt Whitman. She spent 5 summers there before joining the full-time team. Ashleigh attended Williamette University in Salem, Oregon as a college athlete in Volleyball. Prior to starting full time in camping, she took the chance to travel around the world, to every continent, over the course of 3 years. Teaching English in South Korea for a year was definitely a highlight! She has been involved with the American Camp Association as a Tri-State Conference Program Track Chair and is a speaker at multiple camp conferences. She also is a passionate advocate of Project Morry, an organization that helps youth from under-served communities attend summer camp, having served for many years on their Dare to Dream Committee. Her favorite role is as mom to their sons Cooper & Henry. Ashleigh, Matt, Cooper & Henry currently live in Ridgefield, CT.