1. Camp Cheley – Estes Park, Colorado

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Camp Cheley is a traditional outdoor camp with a strong focus on hiking, horseback riding, and wilderness skills. Campers sleep in rustic cabins and spend their days exploring mountain trails.

Ages: 9–17

Highlights: Trekking, campfire cooking, backcountry camping

Perfect for: Young hikers and wilderness explorers

2. Pali Adventures – Running Springs, California

This adrenaline-filled camp offers a wide variety of specialty programs, including action sports, motorsports, and extreme adventure. It’s a great option for kids who want high-energy activities in a safe, supervised setting.

Ages: 8–16

Highlights: Ziplining, paintball, ATV riding

Perfect for: Thrill-seekers

3. Northwaters & Langskib Wilderness Programs – Temagami, Ontario (popular with U.S. families)

These Canadian wilderness canoe trips attract American families looking for true outdoor challenges. Boys and girls join age-based expeditions that teach survival skills and foster independence.

Ages: 10–17

Highlights: Canoe expeditions, bushcraft, leadership development

Perfect for: Teens ready for rugged adventure

4. Camp Carolina – Brevard, North Carolina

Camp Carolina is known for its dynamic blend of land and water adventures. From white-water rafting to mountain biking and archery, the camp keeps active kids constantly moving.

Ages: 6–17 (boys only)

Highlights: Wakeboarding, rock climbing, outdoor leadership

Perfect for: Boys who want an active, all-boys camp experience

5. Camp Horizons – Harrisonburg, Virginia

This co-ed camp offers a balanced mix of traditional camp fun and outdoor adventures. Kids can try high ropes, paddleboarding, and survival scenarios while developing teamwork and confidence.

Ages: 6–16

Highlights: Challenge courses, nature hikes, team sports

Perfect for: First-time campers who want variety

6. Adventure Treks – Various Locations in the U.S. (Pacific Northwest, Rockies, Southeast)

This program is for older kids and teens who want to fully immerse themselves in the outdoors. Trips include multi-day backpacking, mountaineering, and white-water rafting.

Ages: 12–18

Highlights: Trekking, environmental ethics, off-grid expeditions

Perfect for: Teens looking for structured wilderness travel

7. Teton Valley Ranch Camp – Dubois, Wyoming

Located near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, this ranch-style camp offers Western adventures like trail riding, fly fishing, and mountain hikes.

Ages: 11–16

Highlights: Horseback expeditions, mountain treks, wilderness safety

Perfect for: Nature-loving kids with a taste for cowboy life

8. YMCA Camp Widjiwagan – Ely, Minnesota

This well-established camp emphasizes environmental learning through canoeing and backpacking in the pristine Boundary Waters. It’s an excellent introduction to remote wilderness adventures.

Ages: 12–18

Highlights: Water navigation, shelter building, group survival

Perfect for: Older kids with a love for lakes and solitude

9. Camp Pinnacle – Flat Rock, North Carolina

A traditional summer camp that also prioritizes outdoor adventure. Activities include rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, and trail camping. It’s designed to help kids become more independent and confident.

Ages: 7–15

Highlights: Climbing tower, mountain hikes, overnight trips

Perfect for: Active kids who want a balance of camp life and exploration

10. Camp Kodiak – Parry Sound, Ontario (serves U.S. and Canadian families)

This inclusive camp blends sports, adventure, and social skills training. It’s great for kids with ADHD, learning differences, or social challenges, offering a supportive space for active growth.

Ages: 6–18

Highlights: Team sports, kayaking, guided trekking

Perfect for: Active kids needing structured support

Adventure camps give children the space to move, grow, and take on physical challenges in a safe environment. Whether your child wants to climb mountains or paddle rivers, these programs are ideal for building resilience, independence, and unforgettable memories.

Parent Tip:

Ask camps about gear requirements and physical preparation. Many provide packing lists and offer beginner-friendly levels for kids new to outdoor activities.