Forest Explorers

entering grades 3 – 5

Nothing is virtual about this camp, it is a hands-on adventure where we will journal on real paper, talk to other kids in person, get our hands and feet wet in wild streams, and not look at a screen of any sort the entire time.

Forest Explorers is a foundational program for young campers, both new and returning. Your child will be supported as they are introduced to overnight or two night camping experiences and living in the outdoors. We will explore valley and summit ecosystems, catch stream critters, learn survival skills, and learn about forest history. Together we will learn what it takes to set up camp, care for ourselves and each other, while overcoming the challenges of being away from home and making new friends.

The program will begin at the Spruce Knob Mountain Center where we will get to know each other through games and self-awareness activities. We will prepare for and execute an overnight backpacking trip in the nearby national forest. A final celebration back at the yurts will wrap up the Forest Explorers experience.

Dates & Rates

Session One:
June 9 – June 13, 2025
$750/$625/$500

Session Two:
July 6 – July 9, 2025
$600/$500/$400

Session Three:
July 13 – July 16, 2025
$600/$500/$400

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

Drop off and Pick Up

Session One:
Drop Off: Monday June 9, 1pm at the Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Pick Up: Friday June 13, 3pm at the Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center

Session Two:
Drop off: Sunday July 6, 1pm at the Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Pick up: Wednesday, July 9, 3pm at the Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center

Session Three:
Drop off: Sunday July 13, 1pm at the Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Pick up: Wednesday July 16, 3pm at the Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center

We are free to have fun and learn in our own ways while still effectively accomplishing the goals of the program. – 2019 Summer Camper
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
In this program I was able to be my own leader, which has allowed me to see the ways in which I can improve myself and the ways in which I am strong. – Summer Camper, Leadership Camp
The mountain stewards camp is a wonderful, fun, confidence and skill building experience every kid should go through! – Sandy Frank
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
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
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