• Program Length: 3 days
• Dates: Summer 2026
• Cost: $1,000 USD
• Location: Eastern Sierras, California, USA
• Instructors: Mike Veale, others TBA

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Global Conservation Force’s Fundamentals of Anti-Poaching Training Course is a program designed for those interested in remote wilderness camping and learning the basics of wildlife survival, and wildlife protection in remote or high-conflict rural anti-poaching environments.

This physically and mentally engaging three-day course provides hands-on experience in man tracking, wildlife tracking, snare detection, fire-making, orienteering with map, compass, and GPS, cooking by fire, rural wilderness camping, emergency first aid and evacuation, and camping in areas with potentially dangerous wildlife. Participants will gain a practical taste of the skills required to operate in remote wilderness or in active wildlife protection and anti-poaching operations. A course instructor will be present for the full duration of the course to provide guidance, mentorship, and support throughout all activities.

Graduates of the course will earn a Fundamentals of Anti-Poaching Course Certification. Participants who complete this course are also entitled to a discount on Global Conservation Force’s Introduction to Anti-Poaching Course in South Africa (3 or 5-week options), making this program an ideal precursor for those seeking advanced anti-poaching training.

Program Highlights

Physically and Mentally Challenging Field Curriculum
Structured to simulate the challenges faced in active anti-poaching and wildlife protection operations. Focus on endurance, resilience, and operational readiness in rugged, high-altitude environments.

Comprehensive Anti-Poaching & Wilderness Skills

Hands-on exercises in man and wildlife tracking, snare detection, fire-making, navigation, wilderness survival, and emergency first aid. Practical skills emphasize safe and effective field operations in remote, challenging conditions.

Wilderness Camping & Field Living

Backpacking overnight, cooking by fire, and camping with limited facilities in rural, remote conditions. Instruction includes equipment use, water filtration, and basic backcountry logistics.

Exclusive and High-Quality Training

Limited to a maximum of 10 participants for personalized instruction. Course includes a GCF hat, patch, hydration backpack with 3-liter bladder, and GCF shirt. Optional GCF hydration bladder kits are available for purchase.

Learning Outcomes

Introduction to anti-poaching and wildlife protection operations in remote wilderness environments. Development of foundational skills in tracking, navigation, survival, and emergency field response. Preparation for advanced anti-poaching courses and fieldwork opportunities.

Who Should Apply

This course is ideal for individuals 18 years and older who want to gain practical skills in wilderness camping and foundational wildlife protection. Participants should be physically capable of hiking a minimum of 5 miles in high-altitude terrain and prepared to camp in remote, rugged conditions.

Required Gear

• Sleeping bag
• Tent
• Mess kit for fire and gas stove use
• Water filtration
• Backpacking backpack
• Daypack
• Sleeping pad
• Tarp
• Paracord
• Compass
• Basic first aid kit
• Prescription medications
• Waterproof and weatherproof clothing
• Headlamp and small camp lights.
• Optional but recommended: bear mace, bear canister, litrine or remote bathroom kit. Fishing license required prior to course (one-day pass acceptable).

Logistics

Participants can be picked up from Mammoth Airport or within Mammoth Lakes city limits, or arrive in an off-road capable vehicle. One day’s worth of food will be provided. Cell service will be limited.

Due to the highly limited number of spots and the immersive nature of the program, interested applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application early for consideration.