Name: Spruce Knob Kite Festival
Start: 2019-07-13T13:00:00+00:00
End: 2019-07-13T17:00:00+00:00
Location: Spruce Knob Mountain Center

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Leadership Adventure

Leadership Adventure
ages 17+
June 16-29, 2019
Cost: $950 In State & $1300 Out of State

I’ve been to [other] leadership camps before and all the instructors gave very little freedom to the students; 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. — 2018 camper

In this two week program, we will guide you through the process of planning your own backcountry adventure as we explore far and wide in the Mountain State. With instructor support, the group will create a trip plan, pack necessary items and implement a backpacking expedition.

This program will also include caving, paddling and rock climbing components. Participants will go above and beyond traditional camp offerings as they further their technical skills, hone their leadership approach and learn how to manage risk under challenging circumstances in varying terrains.

This year, we will be partnering with the USFS on the construction of a new quarter mile long interpretive trail at Seneca Rocks. This project will include trail building, riparian beautification, and invasives species removal, as well as opportunities to interact with the public while managing an educational booth at the Discovery Center.

Guest speakers from the USFS will also share relatable background knowledge and relevant work experience to help provide campers with a realistic view of professions in the conservation field in WV. Campers will practice public speaking, outreach, plan creation through implementation and various forms of stewardship, resulting in the establishment of a permanent trail used by 70,000 visitors annually!

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. — 2018 camper

Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Drop Off, Sunday, June 16, 12pm, Historic Circleville High School
Pick Up, Saturday, June 29, 11:30am, Yurts at Spruce Knob Mountain Center
Sample Itinerary

I learned to trust myself more and not be afraid to advocate for myself. – Summer Camper, Leadership Camp
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
I love the freedom at this camp. It doesn’t feel like a structured camp with strict rules. We are free to have fun and learn in our own ways while still effectively accomplishing the goals of the program. – camper
The mountain stewards camp is a wonderful, fun, confidence and skill building experience every kid should go through! – Sandy Frank
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 staff were terrific helping us coordinate what camp would fit us best. So patient and understanding. My daughter had a wonderful week and learned so much and made memories and friends. Great experience! – Kristin Potts
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
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