Vinterlager Brings Friction Fires and Shelter Building to Prairie Grove This January

The more you know, the less you need. Vinterlager puts that idea to work in the Ozark Mountains, where you’ll spend three days learning to build shelters, start friction fires, and handle an axe like you actually know what you’re doing. It’s cold, it’s hands-on, and it’s about as far from scrolling your phone as you can get.

THE DEETS

What You’ll Learn and Experience

📅 January 16–18, 2026. 10 AM – 3 PM
📍 Old Friend Farms, 21721 South Cove Creek, Prairie Grove
🎟️ $455 per person | Registration closes January 1, 2026 | Ages 18+
🔗 More info

Vinterlager, which translates to “winter camp,” embeds you in the winter landscape at a private, primitive campsite. Led by primitive skills instructors Rick Spicer, Jonathan Burton, and Philip Liebel, you’ll spend three days honing knife and axe skills, building shelters, starting friction fires, learning knots and hitches, and preparing meals over open flames.

This isn’t just a skills workshop. It’s a chance to share stories around the fire, exchange ideas with fellow participants, and build a genuine connection with the Ozark wilderness. The experience follows the principle that the more you know, the less you need, focusing on both primitive and modern techniques for winter self-sufficiency.

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What’s Included

Your registration covers three days of wilderness skills training with expert instructors, unique walk-in camping at a private site, professionally cooked meals from Chef Matt Cooper, and limited edition event swag. With spots limited to maintain the small-group experience, early registration is recommended.

For additional information, reach out to rick@packratoc.com.