The outdoors, physical challenge, and the bond with a dog have helped thousands of veterans reclaim their lives. These programs are free, proven, and waiting for you.
VA appointments and therapy are important — but they're not the whole picture. These programs meet veterans where they are: on a trail, in a kayak, or with a dog at their side. Evidence-backed, peer-supported, and built specifically for the veteran experience.
Wilderness and adventure programs reduce PTSD symptoms, build community, and restore a sense of purpose. Every program below is free to eligible veterans.
Multi-day outdoor adventure programs — kayaking, hiking, rafting, cycling — designed to help post-9/11 combat veterans reconnect with themselves and each other. Free to eligible veterans.
Post-9/11 combat veterans with physical or mental health challenges.
Enriches veterans' lives by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Local chapters nationwide — runs, rides, hikes, and events. Free membership.
All veterans and active duty service members. Civilians welcome as supporters.
Free wilderness courses for veterans — backpacking, rock climbing, sea kayaking. Evidence-based outdoor therapy that reduces PTSD symptoms and builds community.
Veterans of all eras. No outdoor experience required.
Connects veterans to local community organizations and programs. Fills the gap between VA services and community support — finds programs in your area you didn't know existed.
All veterans and their families.
A trained service dog can reduce nightmares, interrupt anxiety spirals, and provide the kind of unconditional presence no medication can replicate. These organizations provide dogs and training at no cost.
Provides trained service dogs to veterans suffering from PTSD, TBI, or MST. The bond between warrior and dog has helped thousands reclaim independence. Completely free — including training.
Post-9/11 veterans diagnosed with PTSD, TBI, or MST.
Provides therapeutic intervention using specially trained dogs for veterans with PTSD and TBI. Also trains veterans to train service dogs — a dual-benefit program.
Veterans with PTSD or TBI. Inpatient and outpatient programs available.
Matches veterans with shelter animals trained to provide companionship and emotional support. Covers adoption fees, training, and supplies. Helps both veterans and animals.
Veterans experiencing PTSD, depression, anxiety, or isolation.
Isolation is one of the most dangerous things a veteran can face. These programs build real community through shared activity — local chapters, events, and people who get it.
Enriches veterans' lives by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Local chapters nationwide — runs, rides, hikes, and events. Free membership.
All veterans and active duty service members. Civilians welcome as supporters.
Connects veterans to local community organizations and programs. Fills the gap between VA services and community support — finds programs in your area you didn't know existed.
All veterans and their families.
No Experience Needed
Every program listed here is designed for veterans with no prior outdoor or adventure experience. They meet you where you are.
Completely Free
All programs on this page are provided at no cost to eligible veterans. No hidden fees, no insurance requirements.
Peer-Led
Most programs are run by veterans, for veterans. The people leading these programs have been where you are.
Know a program we missed?
Adventure therapy and service dog organizations are some of the most underfunded and underknown resources available. Help us surface them.