LEADERSHIP
SUMMER
CAMP COURSE
In our Leadership Camp, participants embark on a transformative journey, engaging in diverse activities, acquiring essential leadership skills, and fostering personal growth throughout the experience.
WILDERNESS LEADERSHIP COURSE
A THREE-WEEK SUMMER CAMP FOR FUTURE LEADERS
15 - 17 YEAR OLDS | JULY 7 - JULY 27 | $4,950
The Wilderness Leadership Course (WLC) is a summer camp designed for high school students who want to develop their leadership skills in the great outdoors. It is a three-week long trip that recommends some experience in camping and/or backpacking, along with a desire to improve oneself as a leader.
Throughout the course, participants will engage in a wide range of activities that include low and high ropes, rock climbing, caving, mountain biking, bike packing, swift water rescue, whitewater kayaking, canoeing, backpacking, trip and food planning, basic wilderness first aid, and wilderness stewardship. The trip's main focus is on leadership, group facilitation, and education
Leadership Development: Campers also rotate through various leadership roles, fostering growth in respect, attitude, work ethic, and communication. Engage in leadership development sessions such as Leaders of the Day, basic wilderness first aid, conflict resolution, and daily debriefing with leaders—both personal and within the group.
Closing Ceremonies: Finally, participants will join other groups for traditional Wilderness Adventure festivities, including an exhilarating ride on the Giant Swing, competing in the WA-Olympics, a spaghetti dinner, and a memorable night of storytelling around the Closing Campfire. The Wilderness Leadership Course is a fantastic journey where young leaders are forged in the heart of nature.
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Introduction at Base Camp: The program commences at Base Camp, where participants receive a comprehensive initiation into group dynamics, leadership styles, backcountry camping, food planning and packing, kayak class and roll clinic, belay training, mountain biking, bike packing lessons, and basic wilderness first aid.
Participants are also given the opportunity to plan the remainder of the trip, taking turns leading the group. Two "Leaders of the Day" (LODs) are assigned each day, responsible for organizing, guiding, and encouraging the group through scheduled activities.
Adventure Activities: The next phase spans days and miles of classic Blue Ridge hiking, bike packing, canoeing, whitewater kayaking, caving, and rock climbing, culminating in the final phase unfolding in the New River Gorge in West Virginia. This segment provides access to hundreds of climbs, beautiful hikes, and thrilling whitewater activities. Participants are taught proper packing techniques, campsite selection, setup, breakdown, backcountry meal prep, stove operation, topographic map reading, orienteering, backcountry hygiene, self-care, group management, facilitation, and Leave No Trace Principles.
The perfect starter camp for young outdoor explorers
The Outdoor Discovery Summer Camp is tailored for young adventurers aged 9 - 10. Campers stay at base camp to explore our property's beautiful Appalachian Mountains. This introductory camp provides a gentle yet exciting experience, combining outdoor living with thrilling activities such as rock climbing, caving, and canoeing. Campers build foundational outdoor skills, gaining confidence in a safe and supportive environment.
A climbing and caving focused summer camp
Discover the thrill of vertical adventures with Wilderness Adventure's Over & Under Summer Camp, tailored for high school-aged climbing and caving enthusiasts. This fully outdoor experience combines the excitement of rock climbing above ground with exploring Virginia's cave systems below ground. This experience fosters outdoor skills, leadership, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Climb nearly every day in our climbing focused camp
Climb to new heights and conquer vertical challenges at Wilderness Adventure's Rock Climbing Summer Camp. This one-week outdoor experience is perfect for beginners and those seeking to enhance their climbing skills. Campers camp along the trail and spend almost every day scaling rocks. From introductory climbing techniques to tackling top-rope routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.10d, participants will learn and practice various climbing styles.
The ultimate mix of all of our adventure camps
The ultimate outdoor experience starts with our Classic Summer Camps – Classic Adventure (One Week) and Classic Expedition (Two Weeks). Designed for campers aged 11-17, these camps offer an exhilarating blend of adventure activities and backpacking techniques. Whether it's rock climbing, caving, mountain biking, canoeing, or exploring the wilderness, participants delve into a diverse range of activities.
Epic summer camps focused on mountain biking
Join us for the ultimate mountain biking adventure with our Mountain Biking Summer Camps. We offer two exciting options: Mountain Biking 101 and Mountain Biking 201. In 101, beginners master basic biking skills while enjoying thrilling rides through scenic trails. For those with prior experience, 201 provides advanced challenges, including downhill riding at skill parks! Choose a single week or combine both for an epic two-week biking journey.
A water based camp for paddle crazy campers
Dive into the ultimate water adventure with our Go With The Flow Summer Camp. This fully outdoor experience is perfect for both beginners and those with introductory canoeing or kayaking skills. Campers navigate Class I-III rapids on the New River while enjoying rock climbing and thrilling experiences like Swift Water Rescue. This two-week journey promises unforgettable water experiences and leadership growth.
A transformative summer camp for future leaders
This immersive leadership journey spans various activities, from backpacking and mountain biking to climbing, caving, and kayaking. Participants delve into leadership styles, group dynamics, and essential outdoor skills. The course encompasses miles of Blue Ridge exploration, offering opportunities to lead peers, manage group dynamics, and navigate the wilderness. The final phase unfolds at the New River Gorge, where the participants apply new skills in climbing, hiking, and thrilling whitewater activities.
Contact Us
11176 Peaceful Valley Rd
New Castle, VA, 24127
(540) 864-6792