All Things Rock

entering grades 7 – 9 (must be 13 by start of camp)

Are you looking to dig deep into all things rock related?

The geology of Pendleton County is diverse, unique, and full of adventure. From the impressive fins of Tuscarora Sandstone lining the valleys, to the Greenbrier Limestone bands creating over 3,000 known local caves. On this camp we will dive into these vastly different ecosystems and rock features as we learn about the history of the place, and the people who were first to explore these spaces.

This year, our All Things Rock camp will be going underground. The week will be spent learning about technical caving as the group travels to a series of caves in Pendleton County, WV. We’ll start at the Spruce Knob Mountain Center, setting expectations and getting acquainted with our gear for the week. We will then travel to a beginner cave where our main service project of the week will take place. After learning about cave ecology, geology, and conservation, the week will build up to an underground overnight (undernight) cave camping adventure.

This camp will work to more deeply develop campers’ basic adventure and wilderness survival skills as well as fostering relationships with each other, and awareness of group dynamics. Our mindfulness and reflection exercises will help each camper identify their strengths, weaknesses, and preferences and the supportive environment will help them develop confidence in the value and importance of their unique offerings.

Meet Your Guide

Leading the way through some of West Virginia’s most wild and a wonderful landscapes will be Kyle Mills. Kyle is an ACA certified canoe instructor, PCGI certified climbing guide, NOLS trained WFR, and NCRC cave rescue technician. With a nearly a quarter century of experience in outdoor education and a deep knowledge of the natural history of the Allegheny Mountains, Kyle will share his expertise and guidance as you embark on an adventure like no other.

Dates & Rates

July 14 – July 17, 2024
$700/$600/$500

More information on scholarships and tiered pricing can be found here.

Drop off and Pick Up

Drop Off: Sunday, July 14, 1pm
Location: Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville, WV

Pick Up: Wednesday, July 17, 3pm
Location: Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville, WV

I learned so many interesting facts about the world around us that I will definitely take with me, but I also learned how wonderful it can be to be a part of a group in which everyone gives their all and wants to have a great time no matter the challenging situations or the rainy days. – camp participant
I learned to trust myself more and not be afraid to advocate for myself. – Summer Camper, Leadership Camp
Mountain Stewards at Experience Learning is a fantastic week-long summer camp for kids who like the outdoors (or who WILL like the outdoors after this wonderful experience!) Stewardship of our natural resources, self-reliance, leadership, and fellowship, are all integral to this program. My daughter LOVES this camp, and that makes me a happy dad. Experience Learning also has great programs for learners of all ages. I recently completed an excellent Wilderness First Aid course at their wonderful Spruce Knob Mountain Center. Check it out! – Mark Wenzler
The mountain stewards camp is a wonderful, fun, confidence and skill building experience every kid should go through! – Sandy Frank
That was the best experience of high school and allowed me to flourish in my further experiences in high school. Absolutely transformed my idea of my own physical, social, and mental capabilities and made me feel much more confident!!!! I couldn’t recommend it more. ~Former Summer Camper
That was the best experience of high school and allowed me to flourish in my further experiences in high school. Absolutely transformed my idea of my own physical, social, and mental capabilities and made me feel much more confident!!!! I couldn’t recommend it more. ~Former Summer Camper
Through living and working alongside all the different people that come to this camp I was able to experience many different and new ideas, perspectives, and skills that shaped me as a person. – 2019 Summer Camper
I learned about who I am as a person and that if I look within myself I can find some of the strength and courage that I’ve felt was missing from me. – Summer Camper, Leadership Camp