Nature Therapy for Veterans: Healing Outdoors

How Nature Therapy Helps Veterans Heal

Recent studies show that spending time in nature provides powerful mental health benefits—from reducing stress and anxiety to fostering awe and connection. For veterans transitioning to civilian life, outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting offer a unique path to healing.

The Science Behind Outdoor Therapy for Veterans

Research highlights key benefits of nature-based therapy:
- Stress reduction: Lowers cortisol levels
- Improved mood: Increases serotonin production
- PTSD relief: Provides calming sensory input
- Community building: Creates peer support networks

"Just wanting to be happy is super underrated. I really want to pursue this idea that outdoors can be an approach to treatment."
—Logan Demarcus, Veteran

Veteran Healing Programs in Nature

Several organizations specialize in outdoor therapy for veterans:

1. Sierra Club Military Outdoors

• Offers free adventure trips
• Includes veterans-only and family-inclusive options
• Activities: Hiking, rafting, camping

2. Warriors on Cataract (Colorado)

• Focuses on whitewater rafting
• Specializes in disabled veteran programs
• Offers all-female expeditions

3. Rivers of Recovery (Minnesota)

• Medical-grade PTSD treatment program
• Combines breathing exercises with outdoor activities
• Addresses TBI and depression

How to Access Veteran Nature Therapy Programs

1. Identify your needs: PTSD relief, physical rehab, or community building
2. Research programs: Match activities to your interests (rafting, hiking, etc.)
3. Check eligibility: Most programs are free for honorably discharged vets
4. Apply early: Popular trips fill quickly

Nature provides a powerful, medication-free path to healing for veterans. Through these outdoor programs, service members rediscover peace, purpose, and connection—one river, trail, or mountain at a time.