SPRUCE KNOB, WV – January 24, 2018 – Parents across West Virginia race to find meaningful summer activities to engage their kids, but often come to find that affordable, quality options are limited. It does not have to be that way any longer for families across the state taking part in Experience Learning’s Mountain Stewards Summer Camp. The week-long summer camp programs are available at a discounted rate, and additional scholarships are available to further reduce the cost for families. There is no better way to get your teen outside, unplugged, and connected to their home state.
Mountain Stewards offers a unique approach to a traditional overnight camp. As campers arrive, they are provided with all necessary technical equipment and gear before venturing into the surrounding forest as active participants on a backcountry expedition. They will spend their days exploring the forests and caves of Pendleton County and camp under the stars each night.
“I learned what it felt like to carry everything I needed to survive on my back over miles of wooded trail,” reflected one returning camper. “I learned how to lop an effective trail corridor, slipped and crawled through my first cave, pitched my first tent, and lit my first camp stove. I learned to see light through the rainiest day”.
Along the way, campers will participate in a range of community service opportunities through partnerships with local agencies on trail maintenance, or cave and river beautification projects.
This summer marks the first year of three new programs — a paddle expedition based on the Cheat River Water Trail, a wilderness running camp for high school students, and a leadership program for high school students looking for even more adventure while they delve deeper into backcountry living and outdoor skills (includes caving and rock climbing components). Mountain Stewards is open to ages 10-18 with no experience needed to participate. Registration recently opened and spots are going quickly. To learn more about Experience Learning’s Mountain Stewards Summer Camp, or to apply for a scholarship, please visit www.experience-learning.org or call (304) 567-2632.