Took the 3 day NorCal survival skills course. Adam was our instructor and he is one of the best teachers I've ever encountered. Very passionate about the subject matter, engaging, clearly an expert who has spent a lot of time in the field with lots of stories to tell, and excellent at providing students a very thorough understanding of bush craft, emergency response, and first aid. He makes sure every student who wants to learn gets hands on experience, and goes the extra mile to ensure students have the supplies and support they need to succeed. It was pouring rain during our course and he took the opportunity to show us how to adapt to inclement weather, maintained a positive, friendly attitude, and found ways to still make every moment a teaching moment. I left the course feeling way more empowered and confident in my outdoor capabilities (I can make a friction fire and my own shelter and rope now from found materials!) and with a desire to dive even deeper into wilderness survival skills. Highly recommend this course for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. read more

This school is great! We have done 3 classes with them. Each class gave us the confidence to go home and put our new knowledge into practice. I like training with Thomas and Shielah. Take a course with them. You won't regret it. read more

See all

This was an amazing experience put on by Thomas and Sheila. I took my (2) boys, ages 10 & 12 and they absolutely loved it. There is so much information and fun packed into the Bushcraft Family Weekend Course. Thomas has a great sense of humor and keeps it exciting and lively the entire time. We all had a great time and would not hesitate recommending this experience to anyone. It's a great way to connect, learn practical skills and have fun in a beautiful environment. My kids are already begging me to book another class. read more

Where's the 6-Star option??? Unbelievable experience. I only did the 2 day course and am already planning out my next availability to do something longer. Thomas is THE MAN. So experienced, great teacher and he has jokes! The real deal holyfield. And Sheila is awesome too! I learned way more than I expected and can't recommend this enough. If you've even thought about taking a survivalist course you have to go with them. 7 Stars!!! read more

Can't say enough good things about the 3-day wilderness survival and first aid course! Adam is the freaking man and exactly who you'd want leading the course!! Good vibes and amazing information. Adam was patient, a great teacher, and just overall fun to learn from. I went in kind of half expecting it to be a bit of a money grab, but within an 30 minutes of hearing Adam talk we knew this was a legit class. We will definitely be taking the other course. Thank you Adam!! read more

See all

Took classes with them over a few years. Everything was great until I needed a refund on a class they had to cancel. They texted that it was listed as pending, then nothing. Stopped replying to texts & over a month with nor response & no refund. read more

They have a lot of cool classes. I took their WFA back in 2023 so this review is long overdue, but the fact that I remember how positive/memorable the experience was (nearly 2 years later) shows how awesome they are. It was super kind of them to accommodate me by allowing my dog to come since I couldn't find a sitter in time. They genuinely care about teaching you solid life/survival skills. Also, the cohort I took my WFA with all had only good things to say about the other classes they offer here. Their instructors are very knowledgeable and are great at teaching. By far, the dopest class they have is their Alaskan Survival Course read more

I really enjoyed taking their wilderness survival / wilderness first aid 3-day course. The staff wanted everyone to understand the importance of why we should be prepared, who typically finds themselves in troubling situations, and how to react in an abundant amount of situations. I took this course alone but I didn't feel alone because the instructors and my classmates came together to work as a team, and because of this I made new impactful friendships with people who understand the value of the knowledge learned and our like minded interest of being outdoors. I highly recommend taking the three day course because of the knowledge you will learn to prepare yourself if you have to shelter in place and don't be afraid to sign up on your own because you'll still enjoy yourself and hopefully gain a new friend or two. read more

See all

Attended the 1 day intensive survival training session. Adam Mayfield was a wonderful instructor! Very informative and enthusiastic, he honestly goes the extra mile to make sure every student understands and gets to experience hands-on learning! Really enjoyed the session! Thank you!!! read more

If you think "surviving" can't be fun, you absolutely need to do the Wilderness Survival course here! I brought my staff of forest school teachers to the three-day immersion course in March. There was a winter storm warning; it was absolutely frigid out, we worked extremely hard, and we could not have had a better time at a five-star resort in the tropics. The majority of our positive experience is owed to the incredible instruction of our guide, Adam. He offered the perfect balance of humor and wisdom, playfulness and sincerity. He clearly has a very extensive background in all things survival and wilderness, which are not always topics of such levity, but he delivers his knowledge in such a relatable way that the content feels accessible to everyone. The course is a perfect blend of concrete information, storytelling, and hands-on experience, and we were given ample time to practice our skills, ask questions, and refine what we learned. I truly cannot say enough good things about the experience. As part of a group of five women, I can also attest that the course is truly for any and everyone, as long as you bring a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. We will certainly be back for future courses with Adam and are so grateful for his guidance! read more

positive feedback Fantastic experience. my wife and I went together . excellent simulated survival training for three days. this is not a comfortable experience so keep that in mind. it's not a camping trip. it's a simulated survival experience and course. i would say those 56 hours changed my life, at least some. I wouldn't call it fun, but it was definitely rewarding. our instructor was Adam mayfield and he was an outstanding balance of serious education, a fun personality, and positivity. most of the 5 stars goes to him. to Mr Coyne - great hire and great curriculum! read more

We worked with Thomas and Sheila (and Bella!) during a film shoot overnight at the camp, and they couldn't have been better hosts and guides. Super knowledgeable and accommodating. We learned so much from Thomas. Highly recommend! read more

Company run by good hands. Was planning to take a course but had an incident right before it. Needed a refund and they gracefully gave it to me. Very happy and hopefully we will be working with them again in the future :)))​ read more

One day I was watching a TV series called "Long way up" and subsequent shows a "Long way round" and "Long way down" staring Ewan McGregor which basically entailed adventure motorcycling around the world off the beaten path going through about a hundred different countries. In preparation for some of their journeys, they took some survival classes which entailed urban survival to wilderness survival and there was one scene where they had to avoid being captured and taken hostage traveling through war-torn as well as drug cartel territories. Immediately that sparked my attention as I had no idea that there were survival schools for civilians to teach how to survive which was very different from preppers. I Googled and began my research online thus locating several schools in California that were nationally recognized and had genuine instruction based on real-world applications. Upon finishing my research I decided upon Thomas Coyne Survival Schools as his school covered all the basis from an urban environment to wilderness survival including multi-climate training at good price points. I also liked that his school offered membership opportunities along with actually receiving certificates of achievements for each of their courses. I didn't want to write a review until I've completed several of Thomas Coyne's courses and had the opportunity to immerse myself and learn from several of his instructors as well as the opportunity to train alongside repeat students. I'm happy to say that after one year of being a member and attending 10 different courses during my first year with so many additional courses for me to continue my survival training, I can truly say "Thomas Coyne Survival School has excelled in every aspect beyond my initial expectations". I give "5 Stars" to each and every class I've attended with my favorite one thus far being able to complete his famous and nationally recognized "SERE" civilian course. That SERE course was what I initially had sought after watching the TV series I had mentioned earlier and it proved to me that I can fight and not become a victim. That course included professionals from all walks of life, youth to elders, women, and men who travel from all over the world to attend this course and others. I can't say enough how much his courses have changed me by way of self-enrichment, and as I meet and make new friends from attending his school everyone has always had positive things to share. If anyone has a negative review on here; from my experience, they just aren't being truthful. I've witnessed some participants coming in or attending a course with their own hidden agenda or expecting things to be easy. Thomas Coyne has strict policy's on maintaining its integrity and keeping his students safe and if someone jeopardizes protocols they will be asked to leave. A student will never be asked to continue beyond their physical or mental limitations and the instructors and very observant and helpful in getting to know each and every student in their care. What are you waiting for? Sign up for a class, becoming a member is even better. read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Wilderness survival course - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

See all

Thomas & Sheila are wonderful. I have taken numerous classes. I was not raised in any camping or outdoorsy environments and they have given me opportunities to explore them in a safe, challenging but fun settings. I have the confidence and skills to safely appreciate nature. I will continue taking their classes both for fun and education. I highly recommend anyone who does any sort of nature activity to take at least the BLS and Wilderness survival classes. You never know what skills and knowledge you may need, best to be over-trained and educated than not. read more

The training is very beneficial, and the instructors really know their stuff. The only downside is that I never received my first aid certificates, even after inquiring about it afterwards. read more

We took the 7-ay cross climate course and it was an incredible experience! We learned so much practical knowledge that will help in so many situations. Thomas is not only an absolute expert in this field, but teaches in such a way to allow for open conversation and comic relief, also all the other instructors are world class experts. The group we were with now feels like family, and I hope that we all have future adventures together. This was an experience of a life time and will change the way you view your surroundings. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! read more

Outstanding!! I have been in the Airforce 20yrs and have enjoyed some great trading over the years, but Thomas Coyne's survival school is off the charts!! I have taken eight courses with Thomas and everyone exceeded my expectations. I recently took the end of year three day field course. Yhe two instructors Adam and Canaan had outstanding knowledge and insight. I look forward to taking more courses! I will definitely be bringing my family and friends to train with the best!!! read more

See all

Amazing survival school, what a great experience! I took the 3-day basic wilderness survival and first aid course. The instructors were all very knowledgeable and fun, extremely experienced and willing to share everything they knew. Tons of support was offered, but didn't hold our hands, gave us plenty of room to learn from mistakes. Fantastic experience, I will definitely be back for more. Highly recommended read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Built my first a-frame survival shelter, kept me warm through out low 30f nights. - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

I wouldn't want any other gift for a birthday present! From the beginning, it was clear that Thomas was incredibly knowledgeable and funny. My mom and I went into it with very little knowledge of outdoor survival and left with enough to feel comfortable going out into the bush or on a camping trip and returning home safely. The amount he was able to teach in two days was crazy. I highly recommend Thomas Coyne Survival School to everyone. It is the knowledge that will serve you for life, even day-to-day! read more

Great staff! Great customer service! I got from cero knolwdge to almost and expert in survival skills and bushcraft! Adam is amazing, great guy! Thank you to all the team. I'm looking forward getting the membership I think is a great deal! read more

See all

I had the pleasure of attending one of the many courses of self betterment this past weekend,im actually struggling to put into appropriate words how amazing this experience was. I turned up not really knowing what to expect but had the personal experience to understand that it would be in my best interest to just know that i know nothing. From the moment I arrived i was greeted with cordial and competent professionals. My instructor, or as I prefer to get, "teacher" was Adam.This man had the DNA of a true teacher running through his veins.Not only was he welcoming and cordial, but he possessed a rare talent to read the students and room and teach accordingly.This in my humble opinion as a teacher myself is a dying art.He was knowledgeable, approachable,humble and forthright.Which can only be from a life of real world experience.There is ultimately no substitute for this.The knowledge and experience i was subjected to was humbling, truly humbling.I know that i dont know! Adam was very detailed in his passing of knowledge and at the same time completely relatable with his delivery to impact everybody on the spectrum, from the complete novice in mountain/backpacking/adventuring spectrum to the consummate pro. I was also very privileged to gain some insight, details from Mr Coyne and his partner, his understanding of the environment and how it all connects was second to none. I applaud this giving of information and knowledge to the fellow human and can only see the positive benefits of the Thomas Coyne experience and Teacher Adam especially to give the future generations the universal truth that are the betterment of humans and their existence. To be completely transparent, I would recommend any interaction with Adam or Thomas to further your quest for knowledge . read more

I did the 2 day critical survival course with my partner, sister, and her boyfriend. We had an awesome weekend! I was a little worried it would be a lot of sitting around and listening and it wasn't at all. It was hands on, active, and dynamic. We LEARNED SO MUCH! We have been camping and hiking for years but we want to start doing more serious backpacking. Before we did we wanted to get a better grip on how to actually survive if we got lost or seriously injured, I truly feel that we learned this. The instructors (Adam and Rob for our weekend) were very friendly, knowledgeable, fun, and professional. The group of people we did this with were also lots of fun and friendly! The campsite was lovely and scenic. Overall, this class is worth the money and we had a great time. I highly recommend! read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Our shelter! - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

I am a high school teacher and had the privilege of working with Thomas to create a unique and meaningful experience for my students. Thomas volunteered his time and resources to present via Zoom to my students some basic survival skills. He made the experience unforgettable by presenting directly from the outdoors!! My students loved his live demonstrations of how to make fire and make safe drinking water. He recognized that this school year has been a huge challenge for students and wanted to give back in a way that could bring some excitement to their lives. We look forward to working with TCSS again in the future! read more

I took the 3 day Survival Skills and Wilderness First Aid class and really enjoyed it. I learned some new skills and strengthened others. Adam is a great instructor, and has a way of explaining topics using real life examples to teach. I would highly recommend TCSS to anyone interested in learning and honing their wilderness and urban survival, navigation, tactical, medical or other outdoor skills. read more

After spending a considerable amount of time researching on the internet for the best survival schools in America, I kept noticing Thomas Coyne Survival Schools was on every list. As a mountaineer and former martial arts instructor, I wanted to find a school that could augment my skills and knowledge, and has it ever! I have been with Thomas Coyne for a year and a half now, learning wilderness and urban survival, navigation, tactical, medical and other valuable skills while making new friends along the way. The instructors are fantastic, especially Thomas, Adam, and Justin. They work you hard but are at the same time very friendly and patient. If you get stuck on a particular skill, they will take the time to assist you without slowing the rest of the class down. The "classroom" settings are in beautiful outdoor locations in forests, mountains and by lakes. You really get far more than what you pay for! read more

See all

I had the opportunity to attend the 7 Day X-Climate May 27 - June 02 2023 experience. You meet those 3 or 4 people in a lifetime that impress you. Thomas fills one of those slots for me. His knowledge and communication delivery was impressive. His team (Alex, Adam, Shawn, Josh) were clearly experienced and ready to help at all times. It's one of those situations where you ask yourself in the mix "why the hell did I sign up for this?". Then as the week comes to close...you know why you signed up and you're thankful. Thank you Thomas. read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

My son and I (& our friends) just finished one of the coolest weekends we've ever had - the 3-day Wilderness Survival Skills Intensive and First aid certification class. We are now also officially certified by the American Red Cross for Wilderness First Aid!! It was absolutely incredible... from learning how to build emergency shelters out in the wild, to building splints & stretchers, how to make fire with a bow and drill, how to extract people in different scenarios, identifying local flora that can be used for food/medicinal/cordage purposes, natural water filtration methods, and a whole litany of first aid practices, symptom identification and emergency prevention techniques. Highly recommended for anyone who goes camping!! Still on a high from the past 3 days.... And Adam, our instructor, is the BEST. Made the entire weekend for the whole class. Top notch and can't express my appreciation enough for Adam's patience and amazing attitude/stories/knowledge/expertise/etc.. read more

See all

My husband and I participated in the urban survival course today. It was jam packed with excellent and very useful information. The presenter was able to effectively share the information with the aid of slides, print outs, and lots of hands on opportunities. He was well equipped with all of the necessary supplies for the class, was very interesting and easy to follow along. We appreciated the time he allowed for Q&A along the way. We highly recommend anyone interested in learning more about urban preparedness to attend this course! You won't be disappointed- well worth the cost and time invested! We will definitely be signing up for other courses with Thomas and his team. read more

See all

My wife signed me up for the 3 Days Wilderness Survival and First Aid Training Course. I didn't know what I was getting into but it was the best 3 days experience of our lifetime ! Building a shelter in the woods from scratch, making fire from scratch, water purification techniques, identify plants that are edible, and much much more! Plus all the wilderness first aid techniques from creating splints to stopping bleeding wounds were very useful! It gave us the confidence to camp, hike, and be in the outdoors with less fear. It gave us confidence and improved our mindset overall in life. Thank you Thomas ! read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

See all

So. So good. Took the weekend intensive. Was packed with knowledge. Thomas was patient with Newbies like me. And so. Damn. Funny. I was learning critically important stuff, but he was able to keep the course light, with judgment-free instruction. Here's me in phase one of shelter I built and slept in...neat! I will definitely come back for another course. read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

See all

I attended the Critical Skills Survival class today and had a GREAT time! The class was extremely informative. The team was super helpful (thank you Thomas, Sheila, Devan and Danielle). You all were great. Very organized and fun. Can't wait for the next class! Go sign up, get outside and learn some essential information! read more

See all

I called the school regarding a few general safety questions and had the pleasure of getting to talk to Thomas at length about his programs. and not only did he answer all of my questions, but he was absolutely delightful and knowledgeable and SO generous with his time. I will definitely be signing up for courses in the future! read more

I have taken 4 classes from Thomas Coyne Survival Schools: the 2-day wilderness survival class, 2-day wilderness first aid class, Wild Plant ID and Uses, Urban Disaster Survival and Civilian QCB (a home defense firearms class). All were informative and fun. Thomas is a leader in his field, but he's also very approachable, down to earth, and has a good sense of humor and perspective. He makes the classes challenging for each student but he doesn't do it with an overly intense, drill sergeant approach. read more

Thomas Coyne Survival Schools - Building a debris shelter at the 2 day wilderness survival class - Specialty Schools Near Me - Irvine, California

If anyone is interested in basic provisions for outdoor survival, bushcraft, and emergency medical, I highly suggest diving into these courses. Thomas started it off with a great breakdown of survival necessities, and he was accompanied by a fantastic team of capable men and women who were both informative and engaging for the entire 2 day course. Huge shoutout to Adam Mayfield for bringing the education as well as the levity, making the learning fun and connected. read more

Adam and Amy were fantastic instructors during our 3 day wilderness survival + first aid class. As someone who hasn't even gone camping in over 11 years, I was able to get adjusted quite easily in large part due to their leadership and their ability to tailor the curriculum to the needs of the wide variety of attendees. They went ABOVE AND BEYOND in sharing tips and tricks. Not a dull moment! Highly highly recommend TCSS. read more

Just a big THANK YOU for a really enjoyable, challenging, informative course this past weekend (Survival Skills Certification). I got everything I wanted out of it--namely, a sense that "No matter what happens, I know I can make it." Shout out to Adam and Rob, who are super knowledgeable, and who also made it FUN. Keep up the good work! I look forward to next time. :)) read more

I've taken several courses over the past 3 years but the most extensive was the 7-day cross climate course. If you want to learn as much as possible in a crammed 7 days for both wilderness and desert survival this is an amazing class. Thomas is not only a highly skilled instructor, he runs an amazing school with integrity and not ashamed to crack some really bad dad jokes. read more

It was fun and informative. Everything was hands on so you got to practice new skills in the field. If you know anything about Thomas, you know he's a rockstar in his field but there's no ego. I cant wait to take another course. Might bring my kid on the less intense ones. read more

I have trained with the Thomas Coyne Survival School in both skills and field courses and cannot recommend them enough. Thomas and his team are a well of knowledge! They will give you the skills you need to be your own first responder and keep your group safe in a disaster situation! read more