A Guide to Activities Kids Can Enjoy at Summer Camps in Virginia

If you’ve checked out some of our posts, our message is clear:

There’s no better spot to experience Virginia’s great outdoors than Wilderness Adventure.

And now that you know the “where,” you may be wondering what activities are there for your kids to enjoy at our outdoor summer camps. We offer a wide range of age-appropriate camp activities, each designed to bring out the best in your child and create lasting memories.

So, bust out your summer itineraries for the kids, and check out what activities await at our Wilderness Adventure outdoor summer camps.

What Sets Wilderness Adventure Programs Apart

Right off the bat, what sets us apart is our 500-acre mountain campus. More than a beautiful backdrop of Virginia’s outdoors, it’s a living classroom, playground, and community hub rolled into one.

Every one of our Wilderness Adventure programs is built around a core goal: to create unforgettable, age-appropriate adventures that help kids discover their strengths.

But there’s more to our appeal than our outdoor campus. Behind every climb, paddle, or hike is a team of trained, caring counselors who prioritize both safety and growth.

Our staff-to-camper ratios are small, allowing us to provide hands-on instruction and meaningful mentorship every day. Whether it’s your child’s first time away from home or their third summer with us, they’ll be surrounded by people who encourage and support them.

The Benefits of Wilderness Camps for Children

There’s a reason parents return to us year after year. The benefits of wilderness camps for children go far beyond outdoor skills.

• Confidence grows as kids try new things and accomplish real goals.

• Independence develops when they learn to care for themselves in a supportive environment.

• Teamwork strengthens through shared challenges and group victories.

• Resilience builds naturally through adventure and structured risk-taking.
  

We’ve seen shy kids step into leadership roles. We’ve seen hesitant climbers reach new heights — literally and emotionally.

The transformation is real, and it’s one of the most powerful parts of camp.

Age-Appropriate Camp Activities at Wilderness Adventure

We offer a range of age-appropriate camp activities to meet kids where they are — physically, emotionally, and socially. Campers aged 9 to 17 can choose from general and specialty programs that are tailored to their abilities and interests.

For Younger Campers (Ages 9 to 10)

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Our Outdoor Discovery program is designed for first-time campers. Activities focus on exploration, fun, and basic outdoor skills.

For Preteens and Teens (Ages 11 to 17)

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Campers can dive deeper into advanced adventure experiences like climbing, caving, or mountain biking. Specialty programs offer more challenges, while Classic Camp options keep things balanced.

Our most experienced teens can join our Leadership Program — a three-week journey into outdoor leadership, group dynamics, and real-world responsibility.

A Closer Look at Camp Activities (Grouped by Category)

To give you a sense of the range and depth of our experiences, here’s a breakdown of what kids can explore at Wilderness Adventure outdoor summer camps:

Outdoor Adventures

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These are the heart of our programs — exciting, skill-building experiences that push campers beyond their comfort zones in a safe, supported way.

Not only do these activities build courage, coordination, and trust, but they foster belief in oneself and in the group:

• Rock climbing and rappelling

• Caving and spelunking

• Backpacking and hiking expeditions

• Mountain biking on technical trails

• Kayaking and canoeing on calm and moving water
  

Wilderness Skills and Environmental Education

We believe every camper should leave with real, practical skills that foster self-sufficiency and environmental awareness:

• Fire-building, shelter-making, and outdoor cooking

• Plant and animal identification

• Leave No Trace ethics

• Orienteering and map reading

• Outdoor engineering challenges
  

Team-Building and Leadership

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No camper goes it alone. Much of the Wilderness Adventure experience happens in shared moments during hikes, meals, or group games:

• Trust-building challenges

• Cooperative games and relay events

• Leadership exercises

• Group discussions and reflections
  

What Parents and Campers Say

We’re proud of the way our campers grow — but it means so much more when they (and their parents) tell us so themselves:

“This was our first time camping at your location, and it will not be our last.” – Shawn Wade (Google)

“After the first camp, the next school year our child had the same teacher and she said “what did you do to your son this summer? “He is more confident, poised and a different person.” We noticed it too, and it was because of time at the camp.” – Kurt Brownsberger (Google)

“If you love the outdoors you will love this place! Great staff, super friendly. Felt at home!” – Joeno Mowlo (Google)

Why Wilderness Adventure Outdoor Summer Camps Work

From challenge courses to creek-side conversations, every part of our program is designed to support growth, connection, and joy.

At Wilderness Adventure, kids are campers, but at the same time, they’re explorers, teammates, and future leaders. Whether they’re roasting marshmallows, solving a problem on the trail, or cheering each other on at the climbing wall, they’re gaining something real and lasting.

If you’re looking for a summer that transforms more than just your child’s calendar, you’re in the right place.

Reach out to book or check out our outdoor summer camp program for more information.