Nothing is virtual about this camp, it is a hands-on adventure, real-life reset, and a prime opportunity to evaluate outlooks and priorities for the middle-school aged camper.

This program introduces campers to a dynamic mix of hiking, camping, climbing, whitewater river tubing, and stewardship. Beginning at the Spruce Knob Mountain Center, groups will embark on a multi-night expedition designed to challenge and inspire. Along the way, campers will hone outdoor skills and try new activities, from survival techniques and natural art to solo hikes and group stewardship projects in the national forest.

This year’s expedition is one of our staff favorites. We’ll explore the stunning Smoke Hole Canyon area, featuring whitewater river tubing on class I rapids, camping at Big Bend Campground, river snorkeling with the U.S. Forest Service, and rock climbing at the iconic Seneca Rocks. Packed with adventure, water fun, and unforgettable experiences, this program promises to fly by while keeping campers fully engaged.

This camp creates a safe and supportive environment where campers grow through group-strengthening activities, evening reflections, and affirmations, all while deepening their understanding of the natural world. Within this structure, each child becomes more comfortable in the woods, within the group, and within themselves. Many campers discover the confidence to climb higher than they ever thought possible, gaining skills, resilience, and self-assurance along the way.

Program Snapshot:
Lodging: Combination between bunkhouse in the dorms, and tent camping, both primitive and at established campgrounds.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner will either be served out of the main kitchen or over a fire at the Spruce Knob Mountain Center, while primitive camping, meals are packed to be conveniently prepared and eaten in the field as needed.
Group Size: 12 kids, 2 instructors
Age-Appropriate Activities:  Hiking, camping, whitewater river-tubing, rock climbing, stream exploration, stewardship project, survival skills, campfire games, outdoor cookery, sensory awareness activities, stargazing.
Program Length: 4-6 days
*Campers will participate in stewardship projects earning community service hours for their time working on the trails.

Stewardship Flashback

In 2018, our Mountain Trekkers gathered trash (including this crazy wheeled cart) from the Seneca Creek Backcountry where they were exploring. They discovered a remarkable volume of debris in this remote forest region. Transporting all that trash OUT of the forest became a challenge and an adventure of its own!