Camping or other outdoor experience is seen as an alternative to incarceration for youth-at-risk, matching the excitement of the street-gang society or peer group, while simultaneously giving youth-at-risk a sense of the reason for teamwork, adherence to a group-respected value system, regard for skills and abilities of others, plus a re-establishment of trust in adults and peers. Ten basic types of alternative programs are discussed, along with their common elements (e.g., growth of self esteem, emphasis on one's achievements, and ability to think objectively) and differences of opinion on such program and environmental aspects as mainstreaming, early detection, techniques, and facilities. Information on program costs, success rates, and financing shows that estimated costs for resident therapeutic camps are lower than those of a penitentiary and that rehabilitation success rates of camps are 70-80%, while institutional rates are below 40%. Information is provided on leadership role of the Fund for the Advancement of Camping, statistics on juvenile delinquency, causes for delinquency, and types of youth-at-risk. Recommendations encompassed: developing a directory of all programs and resources currently in operation of the 10 types listed: gathering research and operational literature pertinent to youth-at-risk and making it available; and stimulating greater interest in and understanding of such programs. (AH)