Intro to Wilderness
Registration begins on February 1.
Dates: June 29 - July 3, 2025
Grades: 5 -6
Dean: Mitch Slaughter
Campers will be introduced to some of the most popular outdoor activities (hiking, paddling, mountain biking, etc.) during this camp. While they will have access to the camp property and its activities in the morning and evening, the middle of each day will be spent (offsite) on nearby rivers and trails, learning about the great outdoors. This camp can be considered a pre-requisite camp for the Jr/Sr High wilderness trips. Participants should have the personal desire to try these activities, have good mobility, and know how to ride a bike. Please do not coerce a child into participating in this camp, as it may not be for every child.
NOTE: Campers will leave the camp property each day for outbound day overnight trips and one overnight trip. While at THE ARK, campers and volunteers will sleep in and base out of the Jungle Huts.
Intro to Wilderness Packing List
- One change of clothes per day of trip (do not bring good clothes)
- Pajamas / Sleepwear
- Shower gear and carrying bag
- Towel and washcloth
- Personal hygiene items
- Water Bottle
- Jacket and/or hooded sweatshirt
- Sleeping bag/pillow (optional)
- Trash bags for dirty clothes
- Bible, notebook, and pen
- Camera (optional)
- Money for missions offering & canteen (optional)
- Flashlight with extra batteries/headlamp
- Old tennis shoes or river sandals that can get wet
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Hiking socks
- Swimsuit (one-piece)
- Extra layers that are long and/or warm
- Rain gear
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Hammock if desired
- Water bottle
- Lifejacket (optional / ARK will provide unless your camper has a favorite)
- Backpack for hiking (optional / ARK will provide unless your camper has a favorite)
