pws-logo png

Essentials
By Primitive Wilderness Survival

Discover how to master the basics of outdoor survival in our immersive introductory course.

Cost: $300

Ready to conquer the great outdoors but find yourself bogged down by uncertainty and lack of preparation? Our Essentials: Primitive Wilderness Survival course is designed to remedy exactly that.

Guided by Phillip Liebel, a seasoned survival expert who's graced the History Channel's "Alone: The Beast," you'll delve into the art of wilderness survival without the clutter of extraneous gear. Learn how to prepare for unpredictable situations and effectively utilize minimal equipment to survive and thrive.

Beyond theory, engage in a real-world, hands-on experience that will arm you with the skills and confidence needed for any outdoor endeavor.

Secure your spot today and embark on a transformative journey from novice to capable primal survivor.

0Days00Hours:00Minutes:00Seconds
philip-handdrill.webp

SCHEDULE

When And Where are the next available Classes?

Here are our currently scheduled classes - you can select which one works best for you on the registration page!

Graham, TX

Dec 2-3, 2023

Course Highlights

Kit

Don't plan to be unprepared. Learn how to build a minimalist survival kit to get you through cold weather and stormy nights.​

Fire

Learn how to forage for materials and build a fire to keep yourself warm.

Shelter

Learn how to build a shelter that will protect you from the elements!

Water

Learn how to find and disinfect water.

Signaling

Learn about signaling techniques you can use to help rescuers locate you.

Mindset

Learn about survival mindset from a person who's actually had to use it.

Meet Your Instructor

Phillip Liebel: A Primal Mentor Guiding Your Journey

Meet Phillip Liebel, the primitive skills expert who will guide your transformation to hunter-gatherer. As the founder of Primitive Wilderness Survival, Phillip brings a wealth of survival knowledge and a deep spiritual connection to nature to every course he teaches. His philosophy reflects a humble respect for the land and its teachings, rooted in his own transformative experiences on History Channel's Alone: The Beast and his mentorship under the renowned survivalist David Holladay.

Phillip is more than an instructor; he is your guide to rediscovering the raw, primal essence of who we are as humans. His approach resonates with the whisperings of our hunter-gatherer ancestors, illuminating the path that they once walked. He seamlessly blends survival skills with spiritual teachings, urging you to listen to the land, trust your instincts, and embrace the sacred bond between hunter and prey.

With Phillip, you're not just learning tactics; you're delving into a deep ancestral connection, embracing your role in the ecosystem, and rising to the challenges that our hunter-gatherer ancestors once faced. Expect to leave his course with a new-found confidence in your abilities and a profound understanding of what it means to be a primitive survivalist. His teaching style is as raw and real as the wilderness itself, preparing you for the unforgettable journey ahead. Experience it for yourself in Essentials By Primitive Wilderness Survival!

prarie-haven-phillip-teaching jpeg

Show up with nothing!

Our PWS BlanketPack Kits contain everything you need

Welcome to our tribe! Around these parts we like to travel with a minimal kit the we call our "BlanketPack Kit". It includes:

* Twin size wool blanket
* PWS Multipurpose Cloth
* Military poncho
* 25’ of paracord
* 25’ of bankline
* Fixed blade knife by Mora
* Emergency fire kit (pouch, 2 bic lighters, ferro rod, firestarters)
* Single walled stainless steel bottle
* PWS Bandana

You're allowed to bring your own gear, or show up with nothing by renting or purchasing a BlanketPack Kit! Choose what works best for you on the registration page!

Immerse Yourself in the Wilderness Experience

Learn and practice wilderness skills in a natural setting

In the Essential Wilderness Survival Course, you'll immerse yourself in the wilderness experience and learn essential survival skills in a stunning natural setting. Phillip will guide you every step of the way as you learn how to start fires, create shelters, and disinfect water for drinking. You'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to safely get outside.

prarie-haven-phillip-teaching jpeg
campfire jpeg

Make Memories and Friendships

Share the campfire with other attendees

Not only will you leave Essential Wilderness Survival with valuable skills, but you'll also leave with memories and friendships. You'll have the opportunity to share the campfire with other attendees who share your passion for wilderness survival.

Embark on a Tribal Adventure

Heed the Call!

Are you ready to ignite your primal instincts and reclaim your birthright to survive and thrive in the wild? Don't wait another moment. Enroll in our Essentials class today, the perfect entry point for modern-day warriors eager to tap into ancient wisdom. Under the mentorship of Phillip Liebel, you'll master your foundational BlanketPack Kit, learn the core principles of wilderness survival, and emerge with the unshakeable confidence to face whatever Mother Nature throws your way. This isn't just a class; it's the first step in your transformative journey back to your roots. Secure your spot now, and awaken the survivor in you.

0Days00Hours00Minutes00Seconds

Stories about us

From around the campfire... 

testimonial-eric-johnson jpeg

"Looking forward to the next one!"

“Phillip Liebel did a great job leading the December 2022 Basic Survival course. I enjoyed the course materials and the camaraderie was top-notch. Phillip set the tone by being respectful of everyone's ability and being modest about his own experiences."  

- Eric Johnson

testimonial-nicolas-nanchito-vargas jpeg

“Awesome place!”

“Awesome place if you want to gain some of the skills you forgot while sitting at an office!”  





- Nicolas Nanichito Vargas

testimonial-mike-simmons jpeg

“Vast wealth of knowledge!”

“Met Phillip Liebel at Flintlock 2: The Ozarks. Super cool dude with a vast wealth of knowledge and the ability to convey it to others who may not be so well versed in ancestral skills. Hope to study with him again soon”  



- Mike Simmons

Now

Start your survival journey now

Sign up now to get instant access to our free online essential primitive skills course, and get access to our members area where you can find our intermediate and advanced courses, as well as info and registration for our in-person primitive survival skills training and adventures.

bowdrill webp

Secure Your Spot Today

Start Your Primitive Survival Journey!

Limited spots available! 

Unleash your inner survivor and seize control of your outdoor destiny by joining our Essentials course. Led by wilderness expert Phillip Liebel, this is your gateway to mastering survival essentials, from tool use to situational awareness. Equip yourself with the BlanketPack Kit essentials and gain the competence to connect with the natural world like our ancestors. This isn't just a skill-building class—it's the beginning of a transformative experience that will arm you with the self-assurance to tackle any outdoor challenge. Reserve your seat today and awaken your innate survival prowess.

STILL GOT QUESTIONS? WE GOT YOU!

Logistics

 Where is the school located?

Our classes will be held on a private, 120-acre property located approximately 90 minutes west of Fort Worth, outside the city of Graham, Texas, or a similarly sized private property about 45 minutes outside of Austin in Dale, TX!

Groceries, fuel, restaurants, and shopping are within driving distances!

 What is the terrain at the school like?

Small hills, rocky ground with plenty of juniper trees. The area is covered with light underbrush, but nothing significant or very heavy.

There are a few stock tanks located at the back of the property.

 How reliable is the cellphone service?

Cell phone service is rare, but on occasion, you might be able to pick-up a single bar or two.

In General, cell phones don’t get very good reception.

Walking up to the parking area or to the road seems to help.

 What type of road leads to the camp site?

The access road to the camp is basically a worn-down path. It is not an improved road, and it does have some rough spots, but there have been many, low clearance vehicles that have made the drive with no issues.

When it rains, the roads can become unpassable for low clearance vehicles.

 Is the camp location on public property?

No.

This camp is located on private property and as guests, everyone is reminded to be respectful of the land, the plants and the animals.

 Are there any power outlets available to students?

This is a remote camp and there is no power provided.

Some students have brought solar panels to help keep phones charged and to recharge flashlight batteries.

 How close to my vehicle is the camp area and classroom?

You will be able to park before the service road.

The walk from the parking area to the camp is roughly half a mile.

 Where will I sleep?

As an advanced course, we highly encourage students to use the shelter techniques from the course.

However, sleeping arrangements are up to each student. Most of the time, everyone finds a spot relatively close to the classroom/campfire.

We could also make a group camp.

Health & Hygiene

 Is potable water provided?

We have a small supply of water available in the case of an emergency, but in general, you should bring your own water.

Bring plenty for drinking, cooking, and general-use purposes. Some students bring a few of the 1-gallon water jugs they pick up at the store. Other students have brought a case or two of the 20 oz water bottles. No matter how you bring your water, make sure to bring plenty!

As this is an intermediate course, we encourage you leave most of that at the car, and to use the techniques from the course for preparedness for real situations.

 Are meals provided?

The campfire is provided… meals are not!

Usually, everyone comes together around the campfire during mealtimes, and it provides a great atmosphere for fellowship. Typically, people are very generous and share with each other. Sometimes, some of the students have brought enough food to cook for the entire class!

If you have a cooler, we suggest packing that up with ice, and bringing any perishable food, like meats to grill, that way.

You can drive the cooler out to the campsite if needed.

 Are restrooms available?

No, this is a primitive school in all aspects…including when nature calls.

 Is a trash can provided for the students?

No, you should plan to take care of your own debris.

We want to be good stewards of the land, so you should plan to dispose of your own trash, packages and wrappers.

We suggest bringing a trash bag that you can use and carry out upon leaving.

Materials and Supplies

 Is everything on the packing list mandatory?

Yes. To make the most of the class, you should plan to bring all of the required materials. If you are unable to acquire any of the items, contact the instructor.

These are the same as required in the intro course, Essential Primitive Wilderness Survival, as well as a compass, notebook, and a pen or pencil.

 What if I can’t get everything on the list before the class starts?

That’s OK.

There are times when there are extra materials that can be shared.

However, don’t just show up to class short-handed, be sure to reach out to the instructor so they are aware, and they can help you source alternative materials.

Can I bring anything else?

There are plenty of things you may want to bring for extra comfort, such as a camp chair for sitting around the fire, and perhaps a headlamp for seeing when the night is dark. Maybe a guitar for enjoying the downtime (we hope you do!).

Just remember, you'll have to carry it, though not a very far distance.

Please keep extra items to the minimum though so you get the full experience.

 Should I bring anything to prepare food?

You will be able to cook your meals around the community campfire. We provide the firewood and the spark; the rest is up to you!

Food

 How will I cook my meals?

You will be able to cook your meals around the community campfire. We provide the firewood and the spark; the rest is up to you!

Some students bring simple sandwiches, while others bring campfire grates and cook entire steaks.

Breaking bread with others builds a sense of community and camaraderie, so we highly encourage everyone to enjoy mealtimes together.

Mealtime is a unique experience, and usually a lot of fun, and you don’t want to miss it!

 Should I bring anything to prepare food?

If you want to grill something, you'll probably have to bring a grate to do so. Or maybe we can build something!

Some students bring cast iron pans, and other utensils, such as tongs, spatulas, and cutting boards.

The great part about the PWS BlanketPack is that it will expand to fit it all. You'll have to carry it though!

More Questions!

 What if I can’t complete one of the skills?

That’s OK, just keep trying! During the weekend, there will be plenty of time to practice and learn the skills.

If you're having trouble, our instructors will be more than happy to help you sort it out!

 What do we do in between the different class segments? Is there a lot of down-time?

This is another great part of being at this class!

While there isn’t much ‘down-time’ in between class sessions, when there is, it is filled with laughter, stories, and fellowship.

Also, some of the students like to practice their new skills during the "down-time" so they can get feedback or extra help from an instructor.

 What happens in the evening when the classes are over?

This is when the magic happens! Everyone typically gathers around the campfire for their evening meal, to enjoy a cup of hot tea and to share stories. Sharing stories around the campfire is a timeless tradition and we highly encourage everyone to enjoy the experience.

Occasionally, someone will bring out a guitar, flute or drum to play. The evening campfire is a genuinely sacred space for everyone.

 What can I do to make the most of the weekend?

Bring a can-do attitude and go all-in!

We want you to learn, enjoy and even move outside of your comfort zone so you can get to know yourself better and connect with the rugged world where we live.

There are few experiences like the one you get from being surrounded by the majesty of the great outdoors.