Can I register over the phone?

No. Telephone, fax and email registrations are NOT accepted.

Can I just register for one day?

No. Registration for one day is not allowed. Participation in the entire weekend is required.

Can I register for someone else?

Yes, you may register for someone else. Be prepared to choose classes for them.

How will I know if my registration was accepted or not?

Participants will be emailed a confirmation letter after registration is closed, no less than two weeks prior to the event start date. If you completed the registration process but did not receive an emailed letter confirming or denying your acceptance, please contact Shelby at Shelby.Stevens@KS.GOV.

When will I know what classes I got?

You will receive your course schedule no later than two weeks prior to the event date. The BOW Coordination team strives to ensure you are placed in your top course choices; however, this selection cannot be guaranteed.

Can I change my classes after registering?

No, classes fill up quickly and we are unable to accommodate changing classes.

How do I make sure that I am in the same classes as my friends who are also attending?

We encourage you to branch out and meet the other likeminded outdoor women in attendance! However, your best chance to get into the same classes as your friends is to register at the same time so that the same classes are still available during the times you would like. Registration for classes is first come, first served.

How do I ensure that I am rooming with my friend(s) or family members?

During registration, there will be a section that asks who else is in your party. Put the names of the other person(s) in your group and they will be assigned to your bunk area.

Do you provide any kind of financial assistance?

Total event scholarships ($275; 5 in Spring, 10 in Fall) are available for first time participants and are based on financial need. If you would like to apply, scholarship applications can be accessed through the online registration form. If you’re able to attend with your own means, we encourage you to save these scholarships for others.

What happens if I need to Cancel my registration?

If you cancel more than 2 weeks prior to the event you will receive a refund, minus the non-refundable $50 processing fee. If a cancellation occurs with less than 2 weeks-notice, no refund will be issued. In the case of extreme circumstances, including serious injury, illness, or death to you or an immediate family member, exceptions to this policy may be made. Contact Shelby at Shelby.Stevens@ks.gov for information. Registrants who do not attend and provide no notice of cancellation will not receive a refund for any amount. Substitutions of women aged 18 years or older may be made, pending the approval of the BOW Coordination Team. Contact Shelby for information. All cancellations are to be made via email to Shelby.Stevens@ks.gov and must include your full name. Please let us know as soon as possible if you know you will be unable to attend the event.

• Health forms are required to participate. Please make sure your health forms are submitted to Shelby, Shelby.Stevens@KS.GOV, prior to the event.
• Dietary restrictions will be accommodated, and can be submitted during registration
• A digital copy of the BOW brochure with course descriptions can be found at ksoutdoors.com/BOW

How is BOW weekend set up?

The workshop spans an entire weekend, beginning at noon on Friday. You will be participating in 4 sessions total throughout the weekend. Friday afternoon, Saturday morning, Saturday afternoon, and Sunday morning.

How long are the sessions?

Each session has the potential to be about 3 ½ - 4 hours long.

What kind of housing is provided?

Lodging varies on time of year, but often it is a cabin-type setting with bunk beds and shared bathrooms. For more information about the housing at Rock Springs, visit https://rockspringsranch.org/.

What do I need to pack?

Since the weather in Kansas changes quickly, pack accordingly. Sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, along with good socks and rain gear are a must. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and anything else that makes you feel more comfortable in an outdoor environment. A camera or phone for pictures and a lawn chair are always a good idea, but not required. Bring your own bedding, pillow, and toiletries including a towel and wash cloth as those items are generally not provided (we will let you know if they are, depending on the housing options). We also suggest a reusable water bottle.

Do I need to bring my own equipment for the classes?

No. Any equipment needed for your classes will be provided for you.

Do I need to have prior experience to take a certain class?

No prior experience is required for most of the courses we offer. If a pre-requisite is required for one of our classes (i.e. Turkey talk must be taken before Turkey Hunt), that will be stated under the course description.

What is Rock Springs Ranch like?

Rock Springs Ranch is primarily a walking campus. You may experience rocky terrain and hills. Come prepared to get your steps in and wear comfortable shoes. For more information about the Rock Springs facility, visit https://rockspringsranch.org/.

What level of physical activity is required?

Most of our classes are highly adaptable to various skillsets and activity levels. Please bring comfortable shoes and plan to walk distances up to 1 mile.

Where can I find pictures that were taken during BOW?

A link with photos from the event will be shared with everyone a few weeks after the event is over. We encourage you to share your own photos on social media and tag the Kansas BOW Facebook page.

How do I stay involved in the BOW program?

Consider helping at a future BOW event as an assistant instructor! We’re always looking for women to help teach the courses. Even if you feel you aren’t ready to be an instructor, we can help you get there.

How do I become an instructor for BOW?

Fill out the BOW Instructor application at ksoutdoors.com/BOW

What do I do next?

If you’re looking to continue your exploration of the outdoors, we recommend connecting with a local group of fellow outdoors-people. WildHerness and Wander Woman are women-based outdoor groups that welcome everyone. Facebook has many local all-women outdoor groups you can connect with. Grab a buddy or even just your gear and get outside! Keep an eye out for mini-BOWS that may pop up in your area, or contact any member of the BOW Coordination team for assistance.

If you have any question about Becoming an Outdoors-Woman that were not covered in the FAQ, fill out the BOW Contact Us form. 

Lyndzee Rhine: lyndzee.rhine@ks.gov

Shelby Stevens: shelby.stevens@ks.gov

Sheila Kemmis: sheila.kemmis@ks.gov

Chelsea Hofmeier: chelsea.hofmeier@ks.gov

Tanna Fanshier: tanna.fanshier@ks.gov