This summer, Lasting Adventures Summer Camp had the incredible opportunity to host over 420 youth on our backpacking adventures in Yosemite and Olympic National Parks. Our diverse groups included three Young Women’s Adventures, five Young Adventurers, five 13-Day Backpacking Adventures, and an impressive twenty 6-Day Backpacking Adventures! Whether exploring the enchanting forests of Olympic or the breathtaking granite landscapes of Yosemite, these young adventurers connected with nature and pushed their limits in ways they never thought possible. Each week, we were greeted by smiling, dirt-covered faces, witnessing how these groups emerged from the wilderness transformed. While it’s challenging to fully capture the magic of a week (or two) in the great outdoors, we’re excited to share a glimpse of the unforgettable experiences that unfolded.
Olympic National Park Summer Camp
Throughout the unforgettable summer adventures in Olympic National Park, we marveled at the stunning wildlife along the coast, spotting whales, sharks, jellyfish, sea otters, pelicans, and even nudibranchs, while bears roamed nearby. In the forest, we encountered epic slime molds, vibrant wildflowers, ancient 800-year-old trees, and curious slugs. The Lasting Adventures groups emerged victorious in many humorous battles against the resident raccoons of Hole in the Wall. Our experience was enriched by knowledgeable rangers eager to share insights on leave-no-trace ethics, ensuring we respected the park’s pristine environment. We built impressive tarp shelters and indulged in countless delicious meals, from mac and cheese to pancakes with Nutella, key lime pie, watermelon, and even a Thanksgiving dinner with apple turnovers and breakfast burritos. With the guidance of our expert leaders, we navigated challenging tide restrictions along the coast and tackled significant elevation gains in the mountains, making this journey truly epic.
Yosemite National Park Summer Camp
In Yosemite, our summer calendar blended traditional camp trips with special group adventures. We had the privilege of working with students from Determined to Succeed, Dunn School, Georgetown Day School, Camp Bob Waldorf, and Inward Bound—organizations we’ve partnered with for several years and look forward to continuing our collaborations! While some classic itineraries, like the North Rim, remained unchanged, this summer also brought exciting new explorations, with groups venturing into Lyell Canyon and discovering the beauty of Ireland and Bernice Lakes. Some campers were so inspired by their experiences that they created a song parody of Miley Cyrus’s “Party in the U.S.A.,” (Look out for Party in Yosemite near you!) while others we encountered weeks later were leading their friends on personal backpacking trips in the Sierra! Whether their time in Yosemite’s wilderness lasted five days or thirteen, these kids will carry these unforgettable memories with them for a lifetime.
This summer was an incredible opportunity for kids to explore our wild places. Amidst the laughter and fun, they also engaged in meaningful learning experiences. All participants in our programs focused on key educational objectives, including:
- Learning and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
- Discovering the diverse flora, fauna, and geology of the region.
- Appreciating both the native and contemporary history of the area.
- Gaining confidence in essential backpacking and camping skills.
- Developing life and leadership skills rooted in social and emotional learning.
- Fostering a sense of stewardship for nature and the land.
These objectives served as the foundation for extensive experiential learning and personal growth. With so much happening during each trip, the best way to truly understand the experience of a Lasting Adventures Summer Camp trip is to join us and see for yourself!
Yosemite Summer Camps
Olympic Summer Camps
Outdoor Education Trips
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