Wilderness Adventure and Travel Programs for youth
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Southeast Summer Camps > Wilderness Adventure and Travel Programs

Programs in the Florida Keys; the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina; the California Coast; the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming

SOAR, Inc.

Wilderness adventure program

For over 30 years, SOAR has provided multi-length, adventure programs for youth diagnosed with ADHD and/or learning disabilities. Recognizing the outdoors provides an ideal classroom where relevant learning can occur and life skills can be taught, emphasis is placed on developing self-confidence, social skills, and problem solving techniques. Courses are co-ed, and are developed for youth ages 8 - 18 with average or above average intelligence and physical aptitude. Staff to student ratio is low, and instructors are hired for qualities of maturity and caring, enabling them to relate to students and enhance their adventure experience.

Activities vary by location and range from snorkeling and kayaking in the Florida Keys; backpacking, and whitewater rafting in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina; surfing and sea kayaking along the California Coast; and horsepacking and fishing in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and much more. Specialty courses include a trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, learning to whitewater kayak and even participating in a western rodeo! New programs incude a Northern California Expedition and a traditional camp model in sunny Florida.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.soarnc.org
(828) 456-3435
Established in 1977

Big Pine Key, Florida

Seacamp

Residential Coed Camp

Since 1966, Seacamp is the first program dedicated to the education of youth in marine sciences.
Seacamp's location in the Florida Keys allows for a truly unique marine science program, providing an array of activities under the guidance of academically-trained instructors. Students work at their own level of interest, choosing from 24 different areas of study.

Seacamp's SCUBA diving program is open to qualified campers. Courses are designed to give the diver training in SCUBA techniques enabling them to use SCUBA as a tool for underwater research. Satisfactory completion of Basic or Master Diver certification course earns certification through NAUI. Already certified campers choose from our combined marine science/SCUBA courses.

Seacamp aquatics programs include sailing and windsurfing. US Sail certification is offered to beginners in sailing. Seacamp offers the American Red Cross course in lifeguarding.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.seacamp.org
(877) SEACAMP
Established in 1966

Hendersonville, North Carolina

Fox Mountain Guides and Climbing School

Wilderness adventure program

Our Rock Climbing Camps offer extremely small group "pro camps" with an absolute maximum group size of 8 for teens that wish to take their climbing to the next level. Our climbing camps are 6-12 days long for 13-17 year olds. We are located in Pisgah National Forest and we are the Southeast's only AMGA Accredited Summer Camp Climbing Program.

Our Camps curriculum includes; equipment, techniques and most importantly safety skills of climbing. We trad climb single and multipitch, boulder and aid climb! We are deeply rooted in the Leave No Trace, ethics of climbing and the wilderness so we cover these skills as a core component of the camp.

Accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association Coed Camp Website: www.rockclimbingsummercamps.com
(888) 28-GUIDE
Established in 2001

Pacific Northwest, High Sierras, North Carolina and South America

Black Mountain Expeditions

Wilderness adventure program

Black Mountain Expeditions provides wilderness and international expeditions that are purpose-filled, character-shaping and committed to the growth of high school-aged young adults. Remarkable adventures with exceptional Christian leadership.

We offer expeditions to the Pacific Northwest in WA, the High Sierras, in CA, the NC high country and a Bolivian Mission and mountaineering expedition. Backpacking - Rock Climbing - Paddling - Mountaineering - Service - Travel.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.blackmountainexpeditions.com
(828) 669-8766
Established in 1993

Western States, Utah, North Carolina, & New Hampshire, USA and British Columbia, Canada

Adventure Treks

Wilderness adventure program for Teens

Join other teenagers from all over the U.S. for fun and exciting summer adventures in western North America's amazing wilderness. Besides an amazing amount of fun, you'll see incredible scenery, experience the benefits of being a member of a close community, learn many new outdoor skills, become a stronger leader, and gain self-confidence.

Exciting 16 - 28 day wilderness adventures for 13 - 18 year olds in Washington, Oregon, California, Canada, Montana, Alaska, North Carolina & New Hampshire.. A 1:4 instructor:student ratio with a focus on community and growth. Activities include backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, canoeing, mountain biking, sea kayaking, sailing, canyoneering and whitewater rafting.

Coed Camp Website: www.adventuretreks.com
(888) 954-5555
Established in 1978

Cosby, Tennessee

Smoky Mountain Adventure Camp

Coed Adventure Camp

Nestled in the foothills of Eastern Tennessee, and literally a stones throw away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, SMAC takes advantage of the surrounding environment to provide boys and girls ages 8-18 exciting summer adventures. Adventures include: Back Country Hikes, Biking, Caving, Rappelling, Rock Climbing, Challenge Courses, Whitewater Rafting, Tubing, Horseback Riding, Overnight Canoe Trips, Overnight Backpacking Expeditions, and much, much more. We are even planning a 10-day Adventure Trip to Costa Rica!

Our small-camp atmosphere (never more than 40 campers) coupled with our 4:1 adult/camper ratio provide a safe, nurturing environment for campers to gain confidence, make life-long friends and have an unforgettable summer.

Coed Camp Website: www.SMACamp.com
(866) 876-2267
Established in 2002

Buffalo Cove, North Carolina

Buffalo Cove Outdoor Education Center

Wilderness adventure program

A nonprofit organization dedicated to a unique outdoor living experience that promotes the healthy growth of individuals through a greater sense of self and community. We teach through fun and meaningful experiences that bring you closer to yourself, your friends and the land around you. We serve home cooked, healthy, family style meals created from mostly organic and local foods. We focus on complete nourishment of the body, mind and spirit. Our camper to staff ratio of 3:1 - combined with the experience, training and dedication of our wonderful staff - ensures the highest quality instruction, attention and safety.

We offer Experiential Education in the lessons of the Southern Appalachian Mountains including, but not limited to: traditional earth skills, campcraft, woodslore, woodworking, archery, backpacking, low impact camping and river canoeing. One and Two week sessions. Ages 8 - 17.

Coed Camp Website: www.buffalocove.com
(828) 964-1473
Established in 2001

North Carolina, California, Hawaii, Bahamas, Barbados, Costa Rica, Florida, Australia

WB Surf Camp

Residential coed surfing camp

We specialize in marine science and ocean safety based Surfing Adventures for ages 11-17. Campers learn how to surf "The Right Way" in any one of our awesome locations including Wrightsville Beach, NC, the Outer Banks of NC, California, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Barbados, Bahamas, Florida, and Australia. Surf and explore various breaks while learning about amazing coastal ecosystems. Gain self confidence and have an adventure that will change your life forever. No experience is required as we cater to beginners. Our industry leading student to instructor ratio is 3:1.

In all of our adventures, campers surf two sessions a day on most days. We'll surf multiple breaks and learn about surfing culture, etiquette, and safety that will allow you to grow as a surfer and increase your skills in the water. Come have the experience of a lifetime with Surf Camp!

Coed Camp Website: www.wbsurfcamp.com
(866) 844-SURF
Established in 2001

Tuxedo, North Carolina

Camp Green Cove

Residential girls' summer camp

A traditional summer camp for girls on a mountain lake in NC, with a non-competitive wilderness focus. The emphasis is on water (canoeing and kayaking, sailing, and swimming), woods (hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking), tennis, and horses, and includes the opportunity for lots of wilderness trips.

Activities include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and lots of trips.

Website: www.greencove.com
(828) 692-6355
Established in 1945

Mouth of Wilson, VA and Roaring Gap, North Carolina

Cheerio Adventures

Wilderness adventure program

Join us for an Adventure Camp experience like no other! Cheerio Adventures specializes in camp sessions from 3 days up to 14 days of unforgettable adventures. We are a Christian based adventure camp located in the mountains of SW Virginia along the New River. The camp is for boys and girls ages 10-17. All groups consist of 8-12 participants, to maximize the adventure experience and promote strong and long lasting friendships. Our focus on helping young people learn more about themselves, strengthen self-confidence, leadership, teamwork skills, is accomplished while challenging them in a safe and fun Christian setting. All equipment is provided.

Trips take place in NC, TN, VA and WV. Activities include rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, backpacking, caving, mountain biking, sailing, wind surfing and more.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.cheerioadventures.com
(336) 363-2604
Established in 1982

USA, Canada and some international locations

Outward Bound

Wilderness adventure programs worldwide

Outward Bound, a national nonprofit organization, offers over 500 adventure-based courses - year round - serving adults, teens and youth (ages 12+).

Course activities include rock climbing, sea kayaking, backpacking, mountaineering, sailing, dogsledding, canoeing and rafting in some of the most untouched wilderness areas across the nation. No matter the activity, courses focus on learning through experience, compassion, leadership and responsibility to both team and the environment. Courses range in length from 4 days to three months in length. Scholarships are available.

Since 1962, over 500,000 students have returned from an Outward Bound experience with a deeper knowledge of themselves and the world in which we live.

Coed Camp Website: www.outwardbound.org
(866) 467-7651
Established in 1962

Cedar Mountain, North Carolina

Camp High Rocks

Residential boys' summer camp

A small camp for 125 boys emphasizing outdoor adventure in a non-competitive atmosphere. Campers choose their own schedule and then build skills to increase self confidence. High Rocks is a place for fun and learning, for challenge and adventure, and for living in an environment that is geared to a camper's needs and interests. Aided by a well-trained staff we seek to teach and to inspire lasting skills and values. We offer ongoing opportunities for success, a freedom from inhibiting competitive pressure, and daily instruction in activities which promote rapid development of skills, an increased self-esteem, and a sense of community.

Activities include: Rock climbing, lake and whitewater canoeing, mountain biking, horseback, backpacking, and many more traditional camp activities. Our 1,000 acre facility adjoins a 6,000 acre state forest and is near Pisgah National Forest.

Accredited by the Association for Experiential Education Accredited by the American Camp Association Boys Camp Website: www.highrocks.com
(828) 885-2153
Established in 1958

Hendersonville, North Carolina

Camp Kanuga

Residential coed summer camp

Camp Kanuga offers young people an enjoyable and stimulating experience in a Christian setting. The program enables campers to grow emotionally and spiritually while at the same time developing new interests, skills, and friendships. Affiliated with Kanuga Conference Inc., an Episcopal center in the mountains of western North Carolina. We offer strong in-camp programs in a Christian community setting for ages 7-15 and extended backpacking programs for ages 15-16.

Activities include: rock climbing, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, environmental awareness, and more.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.campkanuga.org
(828) 692-9136
Established in 1928

Treks to Utah and the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia

Adamah Adventures

Coed Outdoor Adventure Program for Jewish Teens

At Adamah Adventures we help our campers develop self-confidence, independence, and a sense of adventure while building a strong community focused on environmentalism and the joy of Jewish life. During the 18-day trek, campers work in small groups alongside highly trained staff members to experience both the thrill and the quiet - the whitewater and the campfire - in some of the most awe-inspiring places in the country.

The upcoming summer includes two exciting itineraries. The Blue Ridge Mountains trek highlights include a rafting overnight on the world-class Chattooga River, rock climbing, and the longest zipline in the south! The Utah trek includes hikes in three stunning national parks, a three-day rafting trip on the Colorado River, and a sunset Hummer tour.

If you've never attended a Jewish overnight camp, you could be eligible for a $1,000 grant! Early bird and refer-a-friend discounts available, as are need-based scholarships.

Coed Camp Website: www.adamahadventures.org
(404) 297-4914
Established in 2008

Flat Rock, North Carolina

Inside Out, Inc.

Outdoor Education Program

Inside Out, an experiential educational organization, offers all ages challenging outdoor learning opportunities. Experiences illustrate powerful life lessons, and encourage participants to become a dynamic part of a high functioning community group.

Curriculum, teambuilding and high adventure activities for school communities and classes. Group effectiveness, communication and adventure activities for adult groups. Travel/ Adventure expeditions for all ages, with an organized group of eight or more.

STOP! LOOK! LISTEN! LEARN!

Coed Camp Website: www.insideout-inc.com
(877) 617-5295
Established in 1994

Brevard, North Carolina

Deep Woods Camp

Wilderness adventure program for boys

Deep Woods Camp provides a range of wilderness experiences for boys as an entire program. Small enrollment - 28 campers in each session - allows for individual attention.

All campers participate in hiking, backpacking, whitewater canoeing and rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking.

Boys Camp Website: www.deepwoodscamp.com
(828) 885-2268
Established in 1970

Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina

Wellspring Adventure Camp, North Carolina

Residential Coed Fitness and Weight Loss Camp

Wellspring Adventure Weight Loss Camp in North Carolina combines Wellspring's renowned weight loss approach with adventure and activity. With exciting outdoor activities such as climbing, rafting, camping, hiking, and swimming holes, as well as more traditional camp activities, Adventure Camp provides unparalleled weight loss.

From our camp tucked in the valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains, campers leave for week-long adventures throughout the Carolinas and Tennessee. Nutrition and culinary classes paired with the delicious food served in the dining hall guarantee knowledge of and love for new foods. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a "BC" (Behavioral Coach) in group and individual sessions knits these elements together into comprehensive lifestyle change for rapid weight loss and long-term weight control.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.wellspringadventurecamp.com
(866) 364-0808
Established in 2004

Tuxedo, North Carolina

Camp Mondamin

Residential boys' summer camp

A traditional summer camp for boys on a mountain lake in NC, with a non-competitive wilderness focus. The emphasis is on water (canoeing and kayaking, sailing, and swimming), woods (hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking), tennis, and horses, and includes the opportunity for lots of wilderness trips.

Activities include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and lots of trips.

Boys Camp Website: www.mondamin.com
(828) 693-7446
Established in 1922

Valle Crucis, North Carolina

Camp Broadstone

Coed Residential and Day Camp for Gifted Youth

Camp Broadstone is Appalachian State University's year round outdoor adventure and retreat center with a specialized summer camp for academically gifted youth. Its 55 acres of woods and meadows are located in the small community of Valle Crucis nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Programs are designed to encourage and to foster intellectual, social, and physical growth. One and two week sessions available.

Enrichment Program provides current 4th through 9th grade campers an opportunity to explore a blend of enrichment classes in science, arts, cultural and environmental studies and adventure activities in high ropes, climbing, canoeing, rafting, hiking and camping trips. Day Camp program is for grades 3-5.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.campbroadstone.com
(828) 963-4640
Established in 1975

High Point, North Carolina

Camp Cheerio YMCA

Residential camp with separate girls' and coed sessions

Located high atop the Blue Ridge Mountains of northwest North Carolina, YMCA Camp Cheerio is the ideal place for persons of all ages to enjoy a camping or retreat experience. Camp Cheerio offers many challenging programs, from summer resident (sleepover) and coed adventure camps. With over 20 activities to choose from there is something for everyone.

Founded in 1960 by the YMCA of High Point, North Carolina, Camp Cheerio seeks to provide campers with a sustained, creative, and educational experience in the out-of-doors. Through the use of natural surroundings, and under the Christian guidance of trained leadership, YMCA camping seeks to help campers achieve their fullest potential in terms of mental development, physical well-being, social growth, and spiritual awareness.

Traditional Camp: ages 7-15 (girls' and coed sessions); Adventure Camp: ages 10-17 (coed only)

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.campcheerio.org
(800) 226-7496
Established in 1960

Hendersonville, North Carolina

Blue Star Camps

Residential coed summer camp

Blue Star Camps is an American Camp Association accredited summer camp for Jewish children ages six to sixteen. We offer a truly amazing program that is customized to meet the needs and interests of each individual child. Blue Star presents our campers with a variety of activities ranging from Creative Arts, Land Sports, Outdoor Adventure and Nature, Waterfront, Tennis, Horseback, as well as a Living Judaism program.

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Blue Star empowers campers to develop independence, self-esteem, new skills and life-long friendships. Owned and directed by the Popkin family for sixty years, Blue Star is a sanctuary from the stresses of the "real world" where magic is made each summer in our child-centered world.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.bluestarcamps.com
(828) 692-3591
Established in 1948

Blue Ridge Mountains, north of Greenville, South Carolina

YMCA Camp Greenville

Residential coed summer camp

A Carolina camping tradition since 1912. Camp Greenville offers traditional camping programs, adventure programs, & the challenging "Outback" and "Trailblazer" programs for older campers.

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the western Carolinas, within a one-hour's drive from Greenville, SC, and Asheville, NC.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.campgreenville.org
(864) 836-3291
Established in 1912

Programs in the Florida Keys; the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina; the California Coast; the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming

SOAR, Inc.

Wilderness adventure program

For over 30 years, SOAR has provided multi-length, adventure programs for youth diagnosed with ADHD and/or learning disabilities. Recognizing the outdoors provides an ideal classroom where relevant learning can occur and life skills can be taught, emphasis is placed on developing self-confidence, social skills, and problem solving techniques. Courses are co-ed, and are developed for youth ages 8 - 18 with average or above average intelligence and physical aptitude. Staff to student ratio is low, and instructors are hired for qualities of maturity and caring, enabling them to relate to students and enhance their adventure experience.

Activities vary by location and range from snorkeling and kayaking in the Florida Keys; backpacking, and whitewater rafting in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina; surfing and sea kayaking along the California Coast; and horsepacking and fishing in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and much more. Specialty courses include a trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, learning to whitewater kayak and even participating in a western rodeo! New programs incude a Northern California Expedition and a traditional camp model in sunny Florida.

Accredited by the American Camp Association Coed Camp Website: www.soarnc.org
(828) 456-3435
Established in 1977