REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.), a national retailer of quality outdoor gear and apparel, today announced the launch of its Outdoor School program in its Atlanta stores. Starting in June 2010, beginner to advanced-level courses will be taught in navigation, backpacking, camping, family hiking and more.

REI’s Outdoor School helps individuals and families learn a new outdoor activity or take their skills to a new level. REI’s professional instructors help simplify the details, and provide participants with the tools and gear they need to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

To kick-off the Outdoor School program, REI is supporting the National Wildlife Federation’s Great American Backyard Campout event, at Red Top Mountain State Park, June 11-13. During the campout, REI Outdoor School instructors will lead a family hike/nature walk and teach classes in family geocaching and family camp cooking. REI will also provide camping gear including tents, sleeping bags and pads.  In addition, expert REI store staff will help participants set up campsites and provide advice on Leave No Trace principles.

“We are thrilled to offer our Outdoor School programs in Atlanta,” said Rebecca Bear, REI Outdoor School Manager. “We want to make it easy and fun for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.”

REI Outdoor School, currently offered in seven regions nationwide, is an extension of REI’s in-store classes and clinics that help increase participation in outdoor recreation. The Outdoor School makes it easier to get outside and learn a new skill by taking people out in the field and providing professionally trained instructors, park fees, area maps, first-aid kits and even equipment such as tents and GPS units. For more information on REI Outdoor School please visit, www.rei.com/outdoorschool.

About REI
REI is a national outdoor retail co-op dedicated to inspiring, educating and outfitting its members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship. Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality equipment, REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions.