Nestled in the heart of the DMV, Calleva is more than just an outdoor adventure company. As a nonprofit organization, we provide unforgettable experiences that connect people with nature.
At Calleva, we have been fostering a love for the outdoors and a sense of community for over two decades. We offer adventures from kayaking and rock climbing to team-building exercises and farm-based education.
Known for our immersive and adventurous programs, Calleva offers much more than meets the eye. There’s another side to Calleva that you might not know about: Markoff’s Haunted Forest. This is one of the most thrilling Halloween experiences around and it’s a key part of the Calleva story.
If you’ve ever wondered what Calleva is all about, or if you’ve enjoyed one of our programs but weren’t aware of everything we offer, this blog is for you. Come along for a quick story about how all the pieces of Calleva fit together.
The Origins of Calleva
Calleva began in 1993 by three brothers with a passion for the outdoors. They had a vision to create an organization that would inspire a love for adventure in others. What began as a small summer camp has grown into a multifaceted nonprofit. Now, we also run programs that range from environmental education to farming, paddling, and even a haunted forest experience that has become a local legend.
Our Mission and Values
At Calleva, our mission is to get people of all ages outside and active, fostering a deep connection with the natural world. We believe that outdoor experiences can be transformative, building confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for nature. Our programs are designed to challenge participants physically and mentally while providing a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
At our core, Calleva is about building confidence, teamwork, and a deep respect for the environment. Calleva instructors teach valuable skills like navigation, survival techniques, and leadership—all while having fun and making lasting memories. From school groups to corporate retreats, Calleva provides a space for personal growth and adventure.
The Heart of Calleva: Our Programs
Calleva offers a diverse array of programs, each designed to engage participants in unique ways. Here’s a closer look at what we do:
Summer Camps
With over 25 years of experience, we’ve perfected the art of creating fun, educational, and adventurous summer camps for kids. Our camps are divided into different age groups. Each is tailored with activities that encourage exploration, skill development, and friendship.
Whether it’s learning to paddle a kayak, mastering a climbing wall, or navigating a mountain biking adventure, our campers are always in for an exciting summer. Summer camp at Calleva is the closest your kids will ever come to the unplugged summers that shaped your own childhood.
Outdoor Adventure Programs
Beyond summer camps, Calleva offers year-round outdoor adventure programs for all ages. From whitewater kayaking to backcountry camping to after school rock climbing, we provide opportunities for individuals and families to learn new skills and enjoy the great outdoors. Our expert instructors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping participants push their limits in a safe and supportive setting. We embrace a “challenge by choice” philosophy, which allows Calleva instructors to meet each participant where they are to expand their confidence and leadership.
Environmental Education
Education is a cornerstone of our mission. Through our environmental education programs, we aim to instill a sense of stewardship and respect for the environment. We partner with schools and community groups to offer hands-on learning experiences that cover topics like ecology, conservation, and sustainable agriculture. These programs complement classroom learning and give students a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Calleva Farm
Calleva Farm is located in Dickerson, Maryland, and serves as both a working farm and an educational resource. Our equestrian programs are an essential part of our farm. We offer horseback riding through lessons, after school programs, scouting groups and parties.
We grow a variety of crops using regenerative practices. Our harvest provides farm-to-table experiences that connect people with where their food comes from. The farm also hosts Tastes of Calleva, a “progressive dinner” style experience and Pizza Nights on the Farm. Guests enjoy a meal made from our fresh produce all while supporting our nonprofit mission.
The Thrills of Markoff’s Haunted Forest
One of the most unique aspects of Calleva is our connection to Markoff’s Haunted Forest. This thrilling Halloween attraction has been scaring and delighting visitors for over 25 years. What many people don’t realize is that this spooky spectacle is actually a fundraising event for Calleva.
Markoff’s Haunted Forest is an immersive experience set in the woods of the Calleva farm in Montgomery County. Visitors navigate through dark trails and haunted houses filled with terrifying actors, elaborate sets, and special effects. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to enter, it’s an unforgettable experience.
The funds raised from Markoff’s Haunted Forest go directly to supporting Calleva’s programs, allowing us to offer scholarships, maintain our facilities, and continue expanding our reach in the community. So, when you buy a ticket to the Haunted Forest, you’re not just signing up for a night of scares—you’re also helping to support outdoor education and adventure programs that benefit thousands of people each year.
How It All Fits Together
You might be wondering how all these different aspects—summer camps, outdoor adventures, environmental education, farming, and a haunted forest—fit together under one organization. The answer lies in our commitment to community, education, and the outdoors.
At Calleva, we see our diverse offerings as interconnected ways to engage people with the natural world. Whether it’s through the adrenaline rush of paddling down a river, the satisfaction of harvesting crops from our farm, or the excitement of facing your fears in the Haunted Forest, we’re all about creating experiences that leave a lasting and positive impact.
Our nonprofit status means that we’re driven by our mission, not by profit. Every dollar we earn goes back into the organization, helping us to improve our programs, provide scholarships, and make outdoor adventure accessible for more and more people in the DMV.
Join the Calleva Community
We invite you to become a part of the Calleva community. Whether you’re signing your child up for summer camp, joining us for an outdoor adventure, or braving Markoff’s Haunted Forest, you’re supporting a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to making a positive impact.
If you’re new to Calleva, we hope this has given you a clearer picture of who we are and what we do. And if you’re already part of our community, we thank you for your continued support. Together, we’re creating a legacy of outdoor adventure, education, and fun that will inspire generations to come.
Explore our website to learn more information about our programs. We look forward to adventuring with you!
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