An introduction to the great outdoors
Classic Adventure Camps
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Ages 11-17 (grouped by age)
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One Week: Classic Adventure
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Two Weeks: Classic Expedition
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Cost: $1,920 (Adventure) / $3,400 (Expedition)
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Focus: Skill-building, activity mix, outdoor adventure
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Experience: No prior experience needed
Classic Adventure Camps are designed for campers who want to try a little bit of everything. This program blends high-energy outdoor activities with hands-on learning, teamwork, and authentic camping experiences—perfect for kids ready to tackle new challenges and build confidence outdoors.
Designed for kids and teens ready for more independence, this program expands skills, deepens responsibility, and introduces longer days, farther travel, and more ownership of camp life.
Enrollment is open
2026 Dates
2026 Dates:
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Ages 11-12
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June 14 - June 20 (one week)
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June 28 - July 11 (two weeks)
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July 19 - July 25 (one week)
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Ages 13-14
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June 14 - June 20 (one week)
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July 5 - July 18 (two weeks)
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July 26 - Aug 1 (one week)
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Ages 15-17
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June 14 - 20 (one week)
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July 12-July 25 (two weeks)
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Step into true adventure
Built for campers ready for anything
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Rock climbing
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Canoeing
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Kayaking
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Caving and exploration
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Shelter building
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Swimming
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Ropes course challenges
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Fire building & camp cooking
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Outdoor education & Leave No Trace
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Group leadership & shared decision making
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Off-site expeditions
Activities are scaled by age and experience, ensuring campers are challenged appropriately and supported as they grow. Each day brings something new, keeping campers engaged, challenged, and excited to see what’s next. Campers also play team games and participate in the famous WA-Olympics. Days are active, hands-on, and full of adventure.
Growing leadership & independance
Perfect for curious, active campers
Classic Adventure and Expedition help campers build confidence in the outdoors, strengthen teamwork and communication skills, and gain independence away from home. Through shared challenges and group experiences, campers learn to support one another, step into leadership roles, and take pride in their accomplishments.
Classic campers begin taking an active role in camp life. They help prepare meals, organize gear, manage camp routines, and support their group. Staff guide the process—but campers step up.
This balance of freedom and responsibility helps campers develop confidence, resilience, and accountability that carries far beyond camp.
Our staff is WA-some
Safety & Supervision
Safety comes first—always. Every activity is led by dedicated experts hired for their experience and expertise, and all staff are Wilderness First Aid–certified. Campers receive a thorough safety orientation at the start of their session, and every activity is age-appropriate and supported by proper safety equipment. An on-site infirmary and attentive supervision throughout the day ensure campers are supported as they challenge themselves and have fun.
A Week of Classic Adventure
Sample Itinerary
*This is an example itinerary based on past years' trips. Classic Adventure is a one-week program, while Classic Expedition is a two-week program. For exact information on this year's itinerary, please contact us!
1
Arrival & Welcome
Campers arrive, meet the Wilderness Adventure team, and get issued their gear before settling into Basecamp life. After a stop at the Base Camp Store for trail snacks and last-minute essentials, campers backpack out to their first campsite. The evening focuses on learning how to set up camp, cook dinner on backpacking stoves, and settle into life outdoors, with discussions on group expectations, local wildlife, Leave No Trace, preparing for the week.
2
Wheels, Water, & Teamwork
The day kicks off with skill-building adventures—older campers may hit the mountain bike trails while others head to the pond for kayaking. Midday brings team-building challenges and group games that build communication and trust. In the afternoon, campers shoulder their packs and hike to a new campsite, gaining confidence with each step.
3
Vertical & Underground
Campers take on the climbing wall, learning movement, balance, and rappelling skills before heading underground for a guided caving adventure. Later, the group travels to a new area, backpacks to camp, and spends the evening relaxing, cooking together, and sharing stories after a full day of exploration.
4
Big Views & Bigger Adventures
The morning starts with a hike to waterfalls and time to play in natural waterslides. In the afternoon, campers climb and rappel at an off-site climbing area, pushing themselves both physically and mentally. The day ends with another backpack to a new campsite, reinforcing independence and outdoor skills.
5
Back to Base & On the Water
This is the day campers look forward to all week. Heading into the Jefferson National Forest to put everything they’ve learned into action on a special overnight camping trip. The day ends with meals cooked around the fire, s'mores, stories, and a celebration that’s equal parts excitement, pride, and fun.
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Celebrate the Week
Campers take on the low ropes obstacle course, cheering each other on every step. Later, the whole camp comes together for the WA-Olympics - where teamwork matters more than winning. The day wraps up with a huge spaghetti dinner and a closing campfire featuring skits, plenty of applause, and a whole lot of memories made.
7
Wrap-Up & Farewell
The final morning is about soaking it all in. Campers replay favorite activities, reflect on their week, and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished. Hugs, high-fives, and proud goodbyes wrap up a week full of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories. It's not goodbye, it's "see you next year!"
Is my camper ready?
More info on Classic Camps
Classic Camps are a great fit for campers who:
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Are comfortable spending nights in tents
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Want more independence and responsibility
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Enjoy active days and trying new challenges
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Are curious, adventurous, and open to new experiences
Challenge/fitness level
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All skill levels are welcome; we teach campers everything they need to know
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Challenge by choice - campers are not required to participate in any activity they are uncomfortable with
Included in tuition (no hidden fees here):
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All lodging and meals
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Guided activities
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All equipment and activity gear
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Transportation throughout camp session
Not included in tuition:
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Personal clothing and items (packing lists available for enrolled campers)
Let's find your adventure.
Got questions or ready to dive in? The WAEL team is here to help - you're in good hands.