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 camping experiences and living in the outdoors. We will explore valley and summit ecosystems, go on a paddle adventure, catch stream critters, learn survival skills, visit swimming holes, and learn fishing basics. 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 10 – June 14, 2024
$815/$690/$565
Session Two:
June 23 – June 26, 2024
$650/$550/$450
Session Three:
July 14 – July 17, 2023
$650/$550/$450
More information on scholarships and tiered pricing can be found here.
Drop off and Pick Up
Session One:
Drop Off: Monday June 10, 1pm
Location: Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville WV 26804
Pick Up: Friday June 14, 3pm
Location: Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville WV 26804
Session Two:
Drop off: Sunday June 23, 1pm
Location: Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville WV 26804
Pick up: Wednesday, June 26, 3pm
Location: Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville WV 26804
Session Three:
Drop off: Sunday July 14, 1pm
Location: Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville WV, 26804
Pick up: Wednesday July 17, 3pm
Location: Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Address: 18 Woodlands Way, Circleville WV 26804
What Folks are Saying:
-
We are free to have fun and learn in our own ways while still effectively accomplishing the goals of the program. – 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 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
-
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
-
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
-
The mountain stewards camp is a wonderful, fun, confidence and skill building experience every kid should go through! – Sandy Frank
-
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