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Discover the hands-on thrill of flying hawks at Camp Kern near Columbus, Ohio. Engage with birds-of-prey and learn falconry traditions in a stunning natural setting.
Discover the hands-on thrill of flying hawks at Camp Kern near Columbus, Ohio. Engage with birds-of-prey and learn falconry traditions in a stunning natural setting.
Book with The Ohio School of Falconry
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Operated by The Ohio School of Falconry · Oregonia, Ohio
Just a short drive from Columbus, Ohio, lies Camp Kern in Oregonia, a unique setting for experiencing the ancient art of falconry amid the rolling hills and woodlands of central Ohio. Walk with Hawks (Falconry 201) offers a thrilling 2.5 to 3-hour journey where visitors engage directly with free-flying hawks, learning the techniques and traditions behind this captivating sport. This isn’t just a bird show; it’s an intimate, hands-on encounter with birds-of-prey that have dominated the skies for millennia.
The landscape around Camp Kern is a patchwork of deciduous forest, meandering creeks, and open fields, providing a natural backdrop where these raptors truly come alive. Participants gain insight into the vital role hawks play in the ecosystem here, controlling rodent populations and maintaining balance in local habitats. The program teaches you to fly hawks to your glove or to a lure, giving a rare chance to appreciate their keen eyesight, powerful wings, and swift precision.
Camp Kern's dedication to conservation and education makes it a standout destination for wildlife lovers and anyone curious about avian predators. The site integrates hands-on learning with respect for natural habitat, creating a low-impact experience that highlights the connection between humans and wildlife.
For those staying in Columbus, it’s an accessible escape into nature that combines adventure with meaningful wildlife interaction. Whether you’re a seasoned falconry enthusiast or a first-timer, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into a traditional skill often lost in the modern world, right in the heart of Ohio’s landscapes.
moderate.
2.5–3 hours.
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, able to stand and walk over uneven terrain for a few hours.
No, all necessary skills are taught during the session, making it accessible to beginners.
The program features trained hawks species, such as red-tailed hawks, suited for interactive flying.
The experience is generally designed for teens and adults due to handling and safety requirements.
Sturdy shoes and long pants are recommended to protect during walking and handling.
Photography is usually allowed but check with instructors to avoid disturbing the birds.
Participants should be able to walk and stand for a few hours and follow safety instructions carefully.
Falconry has a rich history dating back over 4,000 years and was traditionally used for hunting throughout many cultures, including Native American societies in Ohio.
Camp Kern emphasizes sustainable wildlife practices with minimal disturbance, supporting local raptor conservation through education and habitat preservation.
The Ohio School of Falconry, based in Columbus, Ohio, offers hands-on falconry experiences and raptor education across central Ohio. The school runs programs at Camp Mary Orton (Columbus), the Izaak Walton League (Medina), and Camp Kern (Oregonia). Participants encounter trained hawks, falcons, and owls in sessions designed for photographers, families, and nature enthusiasts. Offerings include introductory courses (Falconry 101), intermediate walks with hawks (Falconry 201), owl-focused encounters (Falconry 301), and a dedicated photography day (Falconry 501) led by Master Falconer Joe Dorrian. Sessions vary from about 1.5 hours to 3 hours, giving guests hands-on time with birds in perched and free-flight settings. Instruction emphasizes raptor behavior, handling fundamentals, and the ecological role of birds of prey. The Ohio School of Falconry integrates conservation education into each experience, explaining species significance and habitat needs. Programs include opportunities to photograph raptors, learn to call a hawk to a glove or lure, and handle select owl species such as barn owls and larger Eurasian owls where available. Safety protocols and experienced handlers are present during every session. Equipment and handling techniques follow established falconry practices. The school serves participants aged nine and up for specific programs and tailors content to skill level and interest. As a regional provider of falconry experiences, The Ohio School of Falconry focuses on education, ethical raptor interactions, and memorable field-based experiences across central Ohio venues. Programs accommodate photographers and families while highlighting raptor conservation, bird identification, seasonal behavior, and ethical wildlife observation practices across all sites and outreach.
Book with The Ohio School of Falconry