14-15 Year-old Program
The 14–15 year-old campers take the "next step" and learn how to belay, participate on the low and high ropes course, rock climb outside, engage in waterfront activities, and end the week with an overnight camp-out on Thursday evening. Everyone will enjoy participating in exciting new adventures as well as camper favorites.
New for 2012:
We will have two options for 14–15 year old campers. Option 1: This option will maintain last year's schedule. It will include mountain biking, canoeing, team building, ropes course activities and outdoor rock climbing as well as the overnight camp out on our campus. Option 2: This option will be for those who want to take the adventure to the next level. It will include the same activities, but away from the Gordon College campus for longer periods. Activity possibilities: a day of canoeing on the Ipswich River, sea kayaking, rock climbing and hiking and the overnight campout in New Hampshire or western Massachusetts. (Activities are subject to weather conditions and logistical considerations)
Click here to download the 2012 La Vida Adventure Camp brochure.
14-15 Year-old Program Activities
Team-Building
Adventure Camp uses team-building and adventure activities to help youth learn how to help one another, listen, speak respectfully, cooperate, develop trust, and develop leadership. 14-15 year-old campers participate in problem-solving activities such as Team Triangle and the Wall to build up their group. Campers are encouraged to commit to care and serve others not only at camp but with their families, friends, schools, and communities after Adventure Camp.
High Ropes Course
The high ropes course is a highlight for many campers. They can challenge themselves with the Leap of Faith, the Vertical Playpen, the Wilder Woosey, and other elements. 14-15 year-old campers also have the opportunity to learn how to belay and support their fellow team members.
Rock Climbing
Campers learn beginning skills of how to rock climb and rappell from skilled instructors at rock climbing sites on the North Shore. Campers have opportunities to grow in confidence and challenge themselves.
Waterfront Activities
Each week, campers participate in different waterfront activities including swimming and canoeing off property at Chebacco Lake.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking provides a great adventures in the woods on the several hundred acres of wooded trails adjacent to Gordon College's campus. Campers start with beginner trails and are guided by an experienced mountain bike specialist. Everyone is given the opportunity to try intermediate trails or to continue riding on beginner trails.
Overnight Camp Out
A special part of the 14-15 year-old program is an overnight camp out on Thursday evenings. Campers stay for a cookout, games, a campfire, and camping out overnight in tents. It is a great way to end the week and to get a "taste" of camping.
Reflection
Adventure Camp provides many opportunities to reflect and learn experiences. Reflection times might take place during the overnight camp out, journaling, discussions, or within activities.
14-15 Year-old Program Staff
Campers are placed in a small group with a trained counseling team. Staff are current and past Gordon College students along with other carefully selected, caring adults. Adventure Camp's primary concern is seeing to each camper's phyical, emotional and social needs. We aim to keep our camper/staff ratio low at 5:1.