registration is now open for Our 2026 Class
March 28th- April 1st, 2026
Wilderness First Responder Training
Camp Reinberg at historic Deer Grove Forest preserve
palatine, IL
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is the definitive course in medical training for outdoor
educators, guides, SAR team members, and others who work or play in remote areas. The curriculum is comprehensive and practical, including all of the essential principles and skills required to assess and manage medical problems in isolated and extreme environments. Students completing this course will receive a Wilderness First Responder certification and a CPR certification, both of which are valid for 3 years. In most cases, students must be at least 18 years of age to enroll in this course.
A three-day recertification option is also available for individuals holding a current WFR certification nearing expiration.
Questions? Contact Ryan at ryanm@chicagovoyagers.org.
What To Expect
Some of the best training of your life by industry leader Wilderness Medical Associates International. WMAI instructs thousands of students each year with the most up-to-date wilderness medical training curriculum available.
Students should expect intensive training that is based on conceptual learning, critical thinking, and leadership development. In-person course days are very rigorous and include realistic simulated emergency rescues, with students alternating as patients and rescuers. Expect long days of active learning in the field and homework assignments at night.
This Five-day Hybrid WFR course totals 70 hours of training at an accelerated pace. Please note that our WFR course requires 30+ hours of independent pre-course study, including all readings, assignments, and pre-testing to be completed prior to the first day of class. Access to a computer with reliable internet is required to complete the pre-course work. Enrollment fees cover all required learning materials; upon registration and full payment, students will receive access to the Moodle online learning platform and digital textbook/study materials.
Successful completion with WFR certification is based on 100% attendance, satisfactory performance on homework assignments and written quizzes, demonstrated proficiency with practical skills, and a successful grade on a final written exam. WMA is committed to making reasonable accommodations for any student with special needs. While prior medical training is not required for enrollment, students should review WMA’s Course Participation Standards and Functional Position Description to ensure an understanding of the requirements and the level of rigor necessary for this course.
For more information about this course, please visit the WMA course website.
Please Note/FAQ
Full certification for first-time participants is limited to 16 spots
Recertification for returning participants is limited to 4 spots
Registration closes Friday, March 6, or when capacity is reached (often mid-Feb)
30+ hours of pre-coursework is required through the Moodle learning platform
Pre-course materials and Moodle access will be provided approximately 45 days prior to the start of the course (week of Feb. 9)
In-person course hours are 8am-5/6pm, Mar. 28-Apr. 1, full attendance is mandatory
Evenings may require 1-2 hours of time for additional homework and studying
Course is outdoors and indoors, prepare for any type of Chicago weather!
Training scenarios will involve realistic but simulated injuries, ie. fake blood/bones
We will provide lunch based on participants’ preferences, allergies, etc.
Transportation and lodging are the participant's responsibility; if you would like to coordinate a campsite, cabin, or transportation with other participants, please email your request directly to RyanM@ChicagoVoyagers.org
When registering, be sure to use the correct links for down payment and final payment based on whether you are doing the Full WFR Five-Day Certification, or the WFR Recertification March 30th-April 1st (must have a current WFR certification)
For questions or concerns not covered here, in the course description, or in the WMA’s Course Participation Standards or the Functional Position Description links, email RyanM@ChicagoVoyagers.org or use the general inquiry form below
Lodging Options
Low-cost camping options are available for an additional cost through Camp Reinberg in Palatine, IL (the camp’s kitchen and dining hall are available to all students for the duration of the course at no additional charge). Several budget hotel options are also available within minutes of Camp Reinberg. Due to the demands of in-person field days, lodging at or near the camp is highly recommended. Lunch is provided for students each day.
Payment and Cancelation Policy: For our 2026 WFR training courses: Five-day Hybrid WFR course is $900.00; WFR Recertification is $450.00. A down payment of $300 for either course is required at the time of registration. The final payment is due no later than 30 days prior to the start of class.
An enrolled individual may receive a full refund of fees paid upon cancellation 60 days before the start of class. The enrollment deposit is non-refundable for cancellations less than 60 days before class. No refund is available for cancellations 30 days or less before the start of class.
