When?
October 3 - 18, 2026
Group size:
9 volunteers incl. 1-2 camp leaders
You like cows and adventure? You want to immerse yourself in South-German mountain culture and biodiversity? Come to the alp!
This camp is located in the heart of the Black Forest, with its famous historic mountain farms, forests, high moors, stunning views, and unique light. The nature reserve on the southern slope of Mount Belchen (1414m) is characterized by its unique alpine flora and fauna.
Work tasks:
Together with the landscape conservation association, the grazing association, and local farmers, you will maintain paths and pastures on the alpine meadow. As a measure against the encroachment of shrubs, woody plants will need to be removed. To preserve local biodiversity, invasive species such as lupins and broom will be dug up. Nature conservation experts will introduce you to the basics of the work.
Please be prepared for life in the mountains and bring sturdy (hiking) boots, rain gear, and warm clothing.
Accommodation:
Surrounded by Mount Belchen (1414m), wild pastures, mountain forest, and the beautiful Nonnenmattweiher water protection area, you will stay in a self-catering cabin belonging to the ski club. It has two floors, a front patio with a bench and a view, and a small backyard where firewood is stored and chopped. Downstairs, there's a foyer with a wood-burning stove, a large dormitory with six bunk beds and a small stove, a shower with a two-person washroom, a toilet with a sink, a storage room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Upstairs, there's a toilet with a sink, a urinal with a sink, a large dining room with a wood-burning stove, four bedrooms, each with a bunk bed, and access to the backyard.
The bedrooms have mattresses and sheets, but you'll need to bring a warm sleeping bag or a blanket and pillow!
You can go hiking or visit the cows right from the house. The nearest grocery store is a 20-minute drive away. As a group, you'll cook, eat, clean, and plan together. Food will be purchased with the camp budget. In the neighborhood, you'll find self-service refrigerators where you can buy local cheese, sausage, jam, eggs, and honey. For most local sales and events, you'll need cash!
The locals are all incredibly excited to welcome you and will invite you to Oktoberfest on your first day. Towards the end of your stay, they'll also invite you to an extra day with the cattle for the seasonal "cattle drive," when the herd moves from the pastures back to the barn.
Register now as a camp leader!
Register here if you would like to lead this camp.
If you have any questions about the project or your tasks as a camp leader, feel free to send us an email or call us:
Email: projekte@ibg-workcamps.org
Phone: +49 711 649 02 63