Summer adventure camps or wilderness camps are residential programs geared for youngsters aged 12 to 18. These camps offer a variety of activities and challenges which would not be suitable for younger campers. Some camps even offer excursions outside the United States. There are many summer adventure camps, some are local to a particular area and some offer many locations.
Unlike traditional camps, the activities at adventure camps are edgier. White water rafting or canoeing, mountaineering, desert hiking mountain biking, sailing, wind surfing and other challenging activities are offered. Some camps are open year round. The following three summer adventure camps offer programs nationwide and have excellent reputations for safety. They are either co-ed or offer programs for boys and girls.
Adventure Treks offers a variety of locations and activities. Their summer adventure camp programs are co-ed with approximately a 50-50 ratio of boys to girls and 6 counselors for every group of 24 students. Their safety record is excellent. The activities available vary from location to location, but include sailing, wind surfing, mountaineering, mountain biking, white water rafting and kayaking, sea kayaking, climbing and backpacking.
National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) is a not for profit organization. They not only offer summer adventure camps, but also are open year round for winter adventures as well. Activities vary depending on location, but can include backpacking, canyoneering, desert hiking, lake kayaking, rock climbing, white water rafting and canoeing, and sea kayaking.
Outward Bound is a well known year round non profit wilderness school. Their summer adventure camps are about 2 weeks, but children can stay at Outward Bound for up to 1 year and earn college credits for their experience. Outward Bound also has multiple locations with a variety of wilderness activities.
Teenagers are adventurous no matter where they are. Summer adventure camps can satisfy their need to assert some independence in a safe and structured environment.
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