Campers learn basic camping and backpacking techniques on overnight hikes.

Weather permitting , younger campers (usually 4-6 graders) will complete two separate overnight hikes on the CrossRoads property. At the beginning of the week, the CrossRoads staff will introduce basic skills such as putting up a tent, hiking safety, and building a fire. Campers will prepare for the overnight hikes by practicing to pack a backpack and exploring several of CrossRoads’ trails. The first overnight trip will include a short hike and help campers to become accustomed to spending the night outdoors. The second overnight trip will include a longer hike (approximately 3 miles total), a breathtaking view of camp from “The Rock”, and dinner cooked over the campfire.

Weather permitting , older campers (usually 7-12 graders) will hike 10-15 miles on the Appalachian Trail. Just like the younger campers’ track, these campers will spend the beginning of the week preparing for their upcoming hike. They will plan meals for the trip, learn to pack their backpacks, and complete several short hikes on CrossRoads’ trails. On Wednesday, staff members will drop campers and counselors off at a nearby point of the Appalachian Trail. Campers will hike from the trail head back to camp. This will be a 10-15 mile hike. They will spend the first night at a camp site along the trail and the second night on the CrossRoads’ property.

Younger and older campers will be introduced to other backpacking related skills based on the interests and talents of the counselors leading their group. Possibilities include orienteering, nature studies, first aid, campfire cooking, and shelter building. All backpacking campers must bring their own sleeping bag, walking shoes or boots, and water bottle. Lighter sleeping bags are recommended as campers will be carrying them. Backpacks will be provided for all older campers. Backpacks will also be available for some younger campers. If possible, encourage younger campers to bring a basic school backpack to use on the overnight trips if needed. No backpacking experience is needed, but campers should be physically prepared for hiking several miles in hilly terrain.

Dates : June 23-28 (coed), July 7-12 (girls only for this week), July 14-19 (coed)
Who can come? Boys and girls grades 4-12 (Campers must have finished fourth grade or be 10 years old by June 1)
Start Time : Check-in is from 3:00pm-5:00pm on Monday. 
 End Time: Closing Program is from 10:30am-11:30am on Saturday. Parents are encouraged to attend. No lunch is served. Campers and their families can purchase a bag lunch for $5 a person if they choose.
Cost: Click Here