What is a kids’ climbing camp like?

What can we expect? What will we do?

For our 6-8, 8-10, and 10-12 year old camps.

Day One At Camp

Camp starts with everyone getting dropped off and signing in at a pre-determined parking area. We introduce everyone and get to know names. Each camp will have a maximum of 12 children, and a minimum of 3 adult staff. Each child will then be fitted with a helmet, harness, and climbing shoes. Once equipment is sorted, we’ll walk to the climbing walls. Along the way we’ll stop and play games to get to know each other. We’ll also talk about some of the local flora and fauna, as well as some local history.

As we near the crag, we’ll stop and have a talk about safety and etiquette at the climbing walls. We’ll practice some knots and skills, and go over what to expect and what is expected of everyone. Then it’s time to put on gear. Climbing routes will have top-ropes set up by our ACMG certified staff and everyone gets a chance to climb. Woohoo!

How the day progresses will depend on the group. If climbers are competent and proven, then everyone can start belaying each other in teams of three with a climber, a belayer, and a back-up belayer. We may end up adventure rappelling or doing some slacklining and playing games. Sometimes lunch will involve a big group sit down and eating together. Other groups will be better suited to grazing throughout the day. After lunch we’ll often take time to reflect on things we learned and challenges that were overcome. Climbing then continues until between 2:15 and 2:30. Wind down games and activities will finish the day while one of our pros dismantles the climbing setups. We’ll walk back to the parking lot for 3:00 for pickup.

Climbing is is an absurd activity. Using your body to scale wild rock cliffs. Attaching yourself to a rope and making your way to the top using only your hands and feet. Crazy! But also, one of the most rewarding activities there is. Climbing is an amazing way to build physical literacy, confidence, teamwork, and problem solving skills. Kids will come to climbing camp because it’s fun, but they will leave with skills they can use for the rest of their lives.