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Adventure is not in the guidebooks and beauty is not on the maps

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Jan 03 2025

Why You’ll Love Calleva High Adventures

For Calleva staff, one of the most fulfilling moments of a High Adventure camp week is the end-of-week debrief. Sitting together, often with well-earned ice cream from a local creamery in hand, the group reflects on the week’s accomplishments. These conversations celebrate favorite memories, dissect the most challenging moments, and even inspire laughs over what items campers would—and wouldn’t—pack again.

Calleva staff and campers take a selfie with sunsetting behind them

Asking “Why?”: The Heart of High Adventure

While reliving successes is gratifying, the most meaningful part of the debrief often stems from one question: “Why?” Why embark on these challenging trips? Why push through discomfort? Why take the risk of making new friends? One common answer is simple yet powerful: “To have fun.”

And fun is guaranteed. Calleva High Adventure trips are jam-packed with thrilling activities such as surfing, rock climbing, canoeing, caving, backpacking, fishing, kayaking, canyoneering, and mountain biking. With trips spanning 5, 6, or even 14 days, these experiences combine adrenaline-filled days with opportunities to develop new skills.

What sets Calleva apart is its ability to make these epic activities accessible to all skill levels. Carefully chosen venues blend world-class scenery with challenges suitable for everyone, ensuring campers of any experience level have an unforgettable time.

surf camp at calleva, surfers walk over dunes with surf boards on their heads

Camp Memories That Last a Lifetime

Beyond the day’s adventures, evenings at camp provide their own magic. Campers bond over cooking competitions, team-led meals, campfire stories, and, of course, s’mores. These moments transform groups of campers into cohesive teams, forging memories and friendships that last long after the trip ends.

With approachable activities, stunning locations, and unforgettable camping experiences, it’s no wonder campers unanimously declare High Adventure trips as pure fun.

campers walk through forested area with some down trees in colorado wilderness area. campers are wearing backpacking packs with gear.

Building Lifelong Friendships

Another common answer to “Why?” is “To make friends.” The opportunities for connection on High Adventure trips are endless, and Calleva staff are dedicated to facilitating friendships. These trips thrive on trust, communication, and respect, all essential elements that staff help campers develop throughout the journey.

Trust is built through shared challenges, such as navigating rapids or scaling rock walls, where campers rely on each other for safety and encouragement. Communication is fostered as campers plan their days, ask for help, and collaborate on tasks like cooking or setting up camp. Respect is key, especially when diverse backgrounds and varying comfort zones come into play. With guidance from staff, these elements create a foundation for meaningful connections that go beyond the trip.

West Virginia mountain overlook group photo with campers at sunset with pink sky

Embracing the Challenge

Perhaps the most impactful answer to “Why?” is “To push ourselves.” High Adventure trips are designed to challenge campers in ways that promote personal growth. Whether it’s their first time camping outdoors or tackling a Class V rapid, campers are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones. Calleva’s “challenge by choice” philosophy ensures that every camper feels supported while exploring their limits.

These challenges align perfectly with Calleva’s mission: “To provide challenging experiences that promote personal growth, group cooperation, and leadership skills.” From climbing a step higher to catching one more wave or venturing into an underground cave, staff guide campers with enthusiasm, helping them embrace each challenge.

Group cooperation is essential for success, and leadership opportunities abound. Campers are encouraged to take initiative, whether by being the first to try a new activity or stepping up to organize tasks at camp. These moments allow campers to practice resilience and teamwork in an immersive, adventure-packed setting.

camper rappels down waterfall high adventure camp. staff is holding rope at the bottom.

Unforgettable Adventures Await

The joy of celebrating accomplishments, reflecting on growth, and sharing laughter is what makes Calleva High Adventure trips memorable. The thrill of adventure, the bonds of friendship, and the rewards of personal challenges make them truly unforgettable.

Ready to embark on your own High Adventure? Discover the perfect trip for you with our How to Pick a High Adventure Guide.

group of high adventure campers in between rocks in west virginia resting in the shade.
Adventure awaits!

Jesse Pulliam

River School Instructor & Summer Camp Instructor

Jesse joined the Calleva team in spring 2021. His first Calleva experience was with Calleva’s River School taking kayaking classes. He discovered his passion for the outdoors and started working at Calleva to share his skills with the community.

Jesse’s favorite part of Calleva is one of our challenge course elements, “Rails”! He loves running our High Adventure summer camps. Jesse enjoys that his role allows him to do many different things like Cubs, birthday parties, and High Adventures.

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    Written by Calleva Community · Categorized: Camp, Teen Camps

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Walter says

      January 3, 2025 at 9:28 am

      The Colorado Epic trip is the bestest.

      Reply

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    Poolesville, MD 20837
    301-216-1248

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    304-822-7601

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        • Create New Account
      • Camp FAQs
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        • Camp Scholarships and Financial Aid
        • Refund Policy
        • Camp Instructors
      • Parent Resources
        • Camp Needs List
        • Camp Gear for Sale
        • Camp Transportation
        • Bus Policy
        • Medication at Camp
        • Outdoor Film Intensive Portfolio
    • River
      • Calleva River School
        • Youth Kayak
        • Flatwater & Touring
        • Rescue & Instructor Training
        • Private Lessons and Coaching Program
        • River Calendar
        • River School FAQ
      • Whitewater
        • Beginner Lessons
        • Intermediate Kayaking
        • Kayak Mexico
        • Cheat Training
        • Fall Training
        • Creeking Clinic
        • South East Stouts Training
        • Yough Training
        • Surf Academy
        • Open Practice
        • Pool Rolling
      • Trough Outfitters
        • Canoe Rentals
        • Kayak Rental
        • Camping
      • Calleva River Store
    • Farm
      • Experience our Farm
        • Farm Store
        • Pizza Nights
        • Halloween on the Farm
      • Equestrian
        • Saddle Club
        • Teen Saddle Club
        • Camp
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        • Tiny Tots
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        • Leasing
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        • Events & Groups
      • Nature Immersion
        • Farm and Forest Cubs
        • Forest Free Play
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      • Group Program Catalogue
      • Group FAQs
      • Our Philosophy
    • Resources
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      • Staff Bios
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