SUMMER 2026 OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMPS

About SUMMER 2026 OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMPS

Choosing Your Adventure: Difficulty Levels 🥾

To help you find the perfect fit, we use a "Hiking Boot" scale to rate the physical and technical challenges of each trip. Please review these levels carefully to ensure your camper is prepared for the fun!

The Adventure Scale

• 🥾 (Easy - Fundamental): Perfect for first-time campers! These trips focus on shorter walks and fun activities. Campers should be comfortable being on their feet for 1–2 hours at a time. If you enjoy playing outside and are in good health, this is the level for you.
• 🥾🥾 (Active - Moderate): These trips are for anyone who enjoys being active and on the move. Campers should be capable of hiking for several hours with short breaks. You’ll need a baseline level of fitness to keep up with the group and handle elevation changes (like hiking in and out of a canyon).
• 🥾🥾🥾 (Strenuous - Advanced): These trips involve longer distances and more elevation gain. Campers should have some previous hiking experience and the stamina for full days of physical activity. You may be required to carry a heavier daypack with plenty of water and snacks.
• 🥾🥾🥾🥾 (Challenging - Expert): Reserved for experienced outdoor enthusiasts! These trips involve 6–8 hours of hiking per day over rugged terrain. Campers must be able to carry a 30 lb pack for up to 5 miles while maintaining the group’s pace. Prior backpacking experience is essential.

Is My Child Ready?

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to join us, but you do need to be an active person! Success on our trips comes down to four things: a desire to learn, a goal to have fun, strong motivation, and a positive attitude.

Not sure which trip to pick? We are happy to help match your child with the right adventure! If you have questions about your child's experience level, please email mgrodman@cfsd16.org before registering.

Gear Notes 🎒

While every trip is unique, there are a few essentials every camper will need (like a water bottle and sturdy shoes). A specific, detailed packing list will be emailed to you before your trip departs to make sure you have exactly what you need.

A DAYPACK to hold lunch, snacks, water & sunscreen. Day Packs may be available upon request.

 A DUFFEL BAG if you are going on a trip with an overnight.



Two (2) WATER BOTTLES that hold at least 1-liter of water.

HIKING SHOES or BOOTS that have good tread.