A geologic map is the basic tool of a field geologist. It is a map that shows the types of rocks present at the surface throughout the mapped area and the approximate location of rock unit contacts. Geologic structures such as fault traces and fold axes are shown with special symbols.

What is Field Camp?

Field camp is a tradition in the education of a geologist. It is an intensive outdoor course that applies classroom and laboratory training to solving geological problems in the field. Skills developed during field camp typically include: collection of geologic data, constructing measured sections, interpreting geologic structures, and how to take notes in the field.

Most geology field courses teach students to read geologic maps and use them in the field to solve geologic problems. Some courses also provide instruction in the field and office work needed to prepare a geologic map - often using technology.

Well in advance of field camp you should learn about the weather, vegetation, and terrain of the field location. You should also learn about the types of physical activity that you will be engaged in. This will allow you obtain proper clothing for the weather and vegetation of the field location; obtain and break in a suitable pair of shoes; and, increase your level of physical fitness if needed.

Bear Encounters and Bear Attacks: During field camp you may be asked to enter into bear country. Knowing how to avoid an encounter, what to do during an encounter and how to react to a bear attack could save your life.

Avoiding Ticks and Lyme Disease: Ticks are a major problem for geologists in some areas. Learn how to recognize ticks, how to avoid them, what to do if you have a tick bite and the symptoms of Lyme disease.

Geology Field Course Readings

Students preparing for field camp should read the following essays...

• Why Should I Study Geology in the Field? by Lee Suttner, Indiana University.


• What to Expect at Geology Field Camp by Emily Ferré and Eric Ferré, Southern Illinois University.


• How to Choose a Geology Field Camp by David Rodgers, Idaho State University.

Scholarships that can be applied towards field camp expenses have been offered by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers and the Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists. In addition, many of the schools listed below have financial assistance that applies to their own students.

Faculty might be interested in nominating their best field camp students to the USGS / NAGT Field Training Program or reading a Journal of Geoscience Education article by Carl Drummond titled "Can Field Camps Survive?"