Until the depression of the 1930s, camping was valued simply for its recreational and health benefits. Then, with the advent of the philosophy of progressivism and the consequent changes in educational goals and practices, the educational potentials of camping also began to be examined. Attempts to redefine the role of camping and to seek recognition from the progressive elements in education were made. In this paper, taken from a copyrighted thesis, "Developing a Rationale for Outdoor Education," early studies on camping as education are reviewed. These studies were conducted during and following the period of depression, unemployment, and business failure in the 1930s. The studies examined camping in terms of its sociological orientation and its transition from a recreational activity only to an educational activity as well. The concept of social welfare camping was also examined. [Not available in hard copy due to marginal legibility of original document.] (NQ)