Welcome to Maine Primitive:
Where rediscovering timeless skills empowers a life of confidence, capability, and connection.
Why survive, when you can thrive
Resilience isn't a product. It's a practice. A mindset. A way of being. At Maine Primitive, we teach skills that aren't just for survival—they're for life. Fire, tracking, foraging, awareness—these are tools, but they're also doorways. To confidence. To clarity. To something deeper. The modern world may have forgotten, but you haven't. That's why you're here. And that's why we are, too.
Your journey toward these essential skills can begin wherever you are.
We believe so deeply in this wisdom that you can begin wherever you are, in whatever way works best for you. From on-site programs at our campus in Maine and off-site custom workshops to online class from your computer and intimate global experience and retreats, we meet people where they are—physically and metaphorically. These skills belong to everyone, everywhere, and we're committed to making them accessible across cultures and continents.
Choose your journey
In-Person Programs
Experience our Maine campus with offerings ranging from intensive half-day workshops to transformative two-year programs.
Online Classes
Learn these vital skills on your pace and schedule, through our comprehensive online learning experiences.
Off-Site Programs
Bring transformation learning experiences to your community, school, or organization with custom workshops.
Membership
Deepen your practice with a community who understands that true strength comes from shared knowledge and mutual support.
In every skill you master, every technique you learn, you discover something more. Every spark you create, every track you read, every wild edible you identify becomes more than just knowledge—it becomes proof. Proof that you can rely on yourself. Proof that you understand something essential about the world around you.
But you don’t have to take our word for it. Check out some testimonials below from the Maine Primitive community.
Explore our Programs
Testimonials
Mike D.
“Being an apprentice at the MPSS plugs you into a community; I think that’s what really sets it apart from some of the other schools out there. The minute you step in, you’re a part of a community of people who care about you, where you’re going, and where your growth is… There are experts around every corner here, and there is always something to be learned.”
Amy R
“Every second was a learning and growing experience. Maine Primitive is not average or ‘by the book’; you will walk away a completely different person. I know I did! Not only did I gain more knowledge, courage and appreciation for the world around me, but I left with a new family that I will hold dear for the rest of my life. I learned so much more than I could even process in one weekend… I will definitely be going back for more classes and hope to see you there!”
Jefferson J
“The eclectic genius of Mike and his staff is like a blend of Grizzly Adams, Carl Sagan, Robin Williams, and the entire Nat Geo training/ educational staff… I chose this particular school because of its philosophy of surviving and thriving with the land… the ‘wilderness’ can be a symbolic partner. Despite the twelve hour car trip, it will remain one of the most impactful experiences in my lifetime.”
Lily K
“If you want connection to the earth, if you want real survival skills, if you want to find more meaning and a deeper sense of purpose in your life, or search out your path and learn within an energetic community of students and teachers, come to Maine Primitive. It will change your life.”
Have questions? Please reach out.
staff@primitiveskills.com
+1 (207) 623-7298
716 Church Hill Road
Augusta, ME 04330