OC Orienteering Course

OC Orienteering CourseOC Orienteering CourseOC Orienteering Course

(714) 616-1026

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(714) 616-1026

OC Orienteering Course

OC Orienteering CourseOC Orienteering CourseOC Orienteering Course
  • Home
  • About
  • Orienteering Cards
  • MAP 1
  • MAP 2

Explore the Great Outdoors with OC Orienteering Course

Course Overview: Wilderness (Basic) Navigation

Gain the skills to confidently find your way in the wilderness. This course covers reading topographic maps, identifying terrain features, and using a compass to navigate to specific destinations. You’ll also learn to pinpoint your location and plan routes using both map and compass.


Evening classroom sessions are paired with weekend field exercises, giving you hands-on practice in real outdoor settings. Using topographic maps, a baseplate compass, and modern handheld GPS devices, you’ll build the confidence to navigate safely and efficiently—whether you’re hiking, backpacking, or exploring the backcountry. 

What You'll Learn

Topographic and Navigation Maps

  • Understand contour lines, scales, and UTM location grids
  • Read and select topographic and other compatible maps

Compass Fundamentals

  • Use an affordable baseplate compass with a map and GPS
  • Correct for Central Oregon’s 17° magnetic declination
  • Take and follow compass and GPS bearings

GPS Receivers in the Field

  • Set up and adjust GPS devices from factory defaults
  • Mark, save, and locate waypoints using UTM coordinates
  • Plan routes and return safely to camp or your vehicle
  • Integrate GPS with map and compass for complete navigation

Hands On Practice

Participants will practice:

  • Setting up and calibrating compasses and GPS units
  • Using accurate altitude data for land navigation
  • Planning and following simple routes
  • Reading and interpreting topographic maps
  • Applying techniques to reduce navigation errors caused by poor weather, darkness, fatigue, or stress

Group Dynamics

The class includes time to plan an adventure with fellow participants — a great opportunity to connect with new hiking and navigation partners.

About the Instructor: Shawn Crawford

Shawn Crawford brings over 46 years of hands-on experience guiding and teaching mountaineering, alpine skills, backpacking, and wilderness navigation. As a reserve with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue Team, he combines real-world expertise with a passion for mentoring outdoor adventurers.

REGISTER NOW!

Spots are filling fast!

We can only accommodate 15 participants per session, and a waitlist often forms—secure your place today.

Fee: $35 per participant

(All proceeds support local environmental education and outdoor programs.)

Don’t miss your chance to gain essential wilderness navigation skills!

CALL (714) 616 - 1026

Support OC Orienteering

OC Orienteering is funded by donations. Your support helps us keep classes affordable, maintain our gear, and offer more opportunities for people to learn essential navigation skills.

Copyright © 2025 OC Orienteering Course - All Rights Reserved.

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