Founder Steve Lancia can’t remember a time when camping and learning the ways of the outdoors weren’t a part of his life. Steve’s training started by the time he was eight years old. He was taught wilderness skills and how to be resourcefull while afield by a veteran US Marine who had survived Iwo Jima, Guam and other campaigns. This Marine was not only an elite Scoutmaster and avid outdoorsmen, he was also Steve’s father and mentor.

Throughout his youth, Steve demonstrated an affinity for the outdoors and for mastering the skills of survival; as an Eagle Scout, a Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor. After earning his degree in Forestry, Steve continued to add to his expertise as a Search and Rescue Team Member in the Monongahela National Forest of West Virginia, Professional with the National Ski Patrol, Licensed NYS Guide, American Red Cross Instructor, Licensed EMT and most recently a Wilderness EMT. Through the 90’s, as owner of North Sea Kayaking Company, he was the premiere survival instructor and kayaking outfitter on the East End of Long Island.

Northcamp Wilderness Survival School was established in 2008.

For over 45 years, Steve’s been building the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to avoid panic, conquer fear, function as a team, and find the solutions essential to survive on land and water.

He has taught his Survival Mindset & Skills to private organizations, individuals, families, colleges, grade schools, The Boy Scouts, wilderness medicine clubs, youth groups and adult camps.