We sent our son on a 13 day trip with Adventure Treks. Our son canoed, backpacked, hiked and white water rafted. He's always liked these kinds of activities with us, but the experience was made so much more special by the AT instructors and the other kids on his trip. He gained real confidence. And most importantly to me, he gained an appreciation for having a positive mental outlook. This is an experience he will always remember. read more

Adventure Treks - The happiest camper! - Summer Camps Near Me - Hendersonville, North Carolina

My son participated in an adventure trek trip in 2010. And he has signed on for another trip this summer -2011. What he liked about last years trip included: #1 Rock Climbing then: Sea Kayaking, White water rafting, Back backing, story telling, hunting for the mount shasta pineapple, and making a lot of new friends from around the country. What I liked was the positive impact it had on my sons life including: appreciation for nature, increased independence, confidence, self-esteem, self-efficacy, personal effectiveness and coping strategies and increased communication skills and teamwork. Bravo to the leadership team. especially BT. read more

My only regret is that I didn't find Adventure Treks sooner. My almost 16 year old daughter went on the 24 day Ultimate Northwest Trip this summer. She already has the next 3 years mapped out as to which trips she wants to take. With this being her first year we were both a bit apprehensive as the trip got closer. The idea of not being able to talk to her each night seemed impossible and I really had to push my feelings to the side to have the right attitude for her. The day after she flew out I was on my way home from work and I expected to feel depressed but instead I felt a sense of well being and I realized that it was because I felt really good about being able to give her this opportunity. This feeling was reinforced when she called me after her first backpack and her first breathless words were "I am having the greatest time of my life". It made me feel so good to know she was so happy. Since this was her first year we had a lot of questions about what to expect and about how to buy the right gear. Each time I called the AT office I spoke to someone who had detailed knowledge of the trip she was about to go on. Everyone was so friendly and helpful and willing to talk about everything, even the uncomfortable subjects. While she was on the trip we did receive updates. On one hand it wasn't enough in my opinion, I really thirsted for more pictures, more details on what they were up to. On the other hand after talking to my daughter and understanding how constantly on the move & busy the group was I am happy that the leaders spent the time with my daughter instead of posting updates. My daughter came back a new person. Confident. Happy. She immediately began planning a reunion with the other kids who live in Cali. Their friendships are so strong, it's like she has a whole new set of best-friend-cousins. These kids really care about each other. Before the trip she was having a hard time trusting other kids due to some High School drama issues. I am so glad she met these wonderful people. We have been talking about camp non stop for 5 days since she got off the plane and she still has amazing stories to tell! I think my daughters entire future has been enhanced by this experience. For us the camp is definitely expensive. We will save all year long to pay for next years trip and it is 100% worth it. read more

My son has been on 3 trips so far and is hankering to return next year! This year was a little different because a couple of the kids were more suited to Camp SmartMouth as opposed to the normally fabulous AT type kids that are usually on trips. However, the atmosphere and caliber of counselors still made it great for my boy. Great lessons always learned in great surroundings, mostly just great fun! read more

My daughter had an amazing summer adventure and experience at Adventure Treks - California Challenge in 2019. She came back full of stories and with a new sense of accomplishment, love of the outdoors, and many new friendships. From a parent's perspective, I was very happy with the communication before/during/after the trip, from phone discussions and written information to pictures and blog posts during the trip. Communication was always so well-written and very well thought-out. Adventure Treks is a really well-run company, and I was very impressed. We loved the experience so much that both our daughters are attending different summer camps through AT this year and they are really looking forward to it. I have provided the company's information and number also to so many of my friends as I think it is truly a valuable experience for all. read more

Adventure Treks is an amazing program. My daughter has attended for the last three years: Pacific Northwest for 16 days, Canadian Rockies (now called British Columbia) for 21 days and this year, California Challenge for 28 days. Each year was better than the previous and exceeded expectations along every parameter. The wilderness backpacks were challenging, empowering and included awe-inspiring scenery. White water rafting was invigorating and skill-building. Rock climbing with trek-mates cheering you upward and congratulating you on your achievement is a great esteem builder. My daughter is exuberant about the mountains she has climbed and proudly recalls her summiting days. To stand on the summit of Mt. Saint Helens or Mt. Shasta, Mt. Outram or Mt. Frosty and realize that you got there through your own effort, in the company of your new friends is an authentic achievement. The staff that accompany the wilderness treks are all certified Wilderness First Responders. Safety is their most important goal. In addition, the Adventure Treks leaders are tremendously experienced, compassionate and inspiring young adults with valuable wilderness wisdom that makes each trip safe, fun, and a real learning experience. My daughter has always reported that the Adventure Treks staff are companionable, encouraging and that they foster independence and responsibility. A great deal of effort is put into creating a community within the trekking group. My daughter really bonds with the kids she meets at Adventure Treks and misses them all year long. They keep in touch and have formed long-lasting, meaningful and supportive friendships. Adventure Treks is not for troubled youth. An individual who is bent on causing trouble or who will not take direction has no place in the wilderness with this program. This gives me a great deal of comfort trusting that my child's safety relies on the reliability of not only the staff and my daughter's own sound judgment, but also on her trekking companions. Every effort is made to provide plenty of food and snacks that are tasty, fresh and nutritious. We have NEVER had a single aspect of any part of a trek cancelled. These folks are the real deal! Very little in life is as reliable, well thought out and planned for as Adventure Treks trips are. The camp director, Doc, joins every trek for a day or more and gets to know each kid. It is clear that sharing the wilderness, teaching wilderness safety and instilling respect for the natural world while having fun is the highest priority for Doc. Adventure Treks is worth every penny it costs. I'm tremendously grateful for the confidence, mental toughness and plain good times my child has gained these last three summers. read more

We have 2 children that have done Adventure treks. Our daughter did Ultimate California, Alaska, and then the leadership summit. She loved all of the challenges, the friendships and the unique places she adventured to. She came home after each trip with a mind set she could conquer anything set in her way. She came home a little dirty but nothing so bad a long hot shower could not fix. Our son has done the Northwest trip and Alaska, he hopes to do the leadership summit next year. All through the school year he looks forward unplugging from the school year and sleeping outside and challenging himself physically. Adventure treks allows him to do that. The instructors are A+ bar none. My kids have loved them all. They emphasize safety and group ethos and I as a parent feel confident in my kids safety. I only wish they had trips for me! read more

This camp is incredible- the staff are friendly and welcoming, not to mention skilled, talented and resourceful. They made light of every situation and knew just what to do. And all of the activities were great! I did things I never thought I'd be capable of, and found new hobbies and interests that I took home with me. Everywhere we went, the views were breathtaking. To be able to spend time in beautiful places with great people made summer the best time of the year. read more

Adventure Treks - After a successful beach backpack on the Olympic Peninsula. - Summer Camps Near Me - Hendersonville, North Carolina

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This experience exceed all of our expectations. The trip was transformative. In some part because of the activity, but mostly because of the relationships and community our son formed. We highly recommend AT! read more

There is not a thing I would change about this camp! Both of my sons have attended for the last four summers and each year they choose a different (and more challenging) adventure. Every year when my kids return from a summer at AT, they are better versions of themselves- it's as if they have been reset and refreshed. You see more life in their eyes, they are more alive. I love that AT is challenging and REAL. In this day and age of virtual everything, it's so important to spend time in the real world. Sometimes it's cold, sometimes there are bugs, sometimes you try something but it doesn't work out (like reaching a mountain summit), sometimes it's raining- but that is nature and that is life and that is real! My kids are exposed to doing things they just can't do where we live. They hike for days, they kayak for days, they do things that require endurance and they learn that the effort is worth the reward. My son told me that when he saw the sunrise from the top of Mt. Adams after he had spent an entire day and night climbing (and wanted to quit several times!) it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. They learn who they are and they learn to accept others. They learn how to rely on people and how to be someone who can be relied upon. Both my sons have made lifelong friends at AT who are from around the world and they look forward to seeing each other every summer on their new adventure. My son already has the next two years of AT trips planned out so, yes, he definitely LOVES it and so do we. read more

My 14 year old son spent an amazing summer with AT in British Columbia. He absolutely loved every second of it and is already figuring out which trip he will do next year. As a parent I always felt completely confident that my son was in great hands. Everything was so well organized and communications before and during the trip were super. He returned from his adventure in top shape, with much more self confidence and showing more interest in everyone's life. Great program & he will be back! read more

My daughter aged 14 just came back from a 19 days California trip with AT and truly loved her experience which was physically challenging (and she is a very outdoor kid used to camping and hiking) and socially fulfilling. The instructors were very competent she says and the kids grew into a respectful and fun community. She learned great outdoor skills, while savoring the beauties of the landscape surrounding her in many fun well organized activities. She came back stronger in all aspects. We registered her very last minute and all went smoothly. We had great communication with the instructors while the trip was taking place, photos and some detailed description of some days. They insisted a lot about the kids being disconnected during the trip which for me was a little excessive as our daughter is not that connected anyway. Our daughter is already planning her next summer:) with AT and I am very proud that she really likes to push herself well outside of her confort zone. AT is for me a great chance and from now on, I will consider it for all my kids.! read more

Our sons have participated in 5 Adventure Treks summer programs, with more to come! Always a great adventure and summer of growth, in so many ways! Blue Ridge MT experience, CA Challenge, Ultimate Northwest, Alaska Challenge x 2 California Challenge 2019 exceeded expectations. It was our 15 year old son's first AT experience. He loved every aspect of this trip, especially the first backpack and its spectacular views and opportunity for long conversations and getting the pulse of the group. Knowledgeable, experienced, skilled, and fun trip leaders (not college kids - these are highly skilled, educated mountaineers, outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen; some are professors - inspire sense of community, shared responsibilities, and camaraderie - while reinforcing respect one another and for environment, practicing LNT (Leave No Trace). Unplugged - no electronics; and no one misses that! Staff has contact, as well as ample training in Wilderness First Aid. Comprehensive, yet concise packing list makes planning easy; top of line equipment is provided and included. No "a la carte" add-on fees. Great investment in your child! Opportunity for long-lasting, coed friendships with young people from all over the world We have seen such growth and confidence and increased love of the outdoors in both our sons as a result of their wonderful experiences at Adventure Treks. We've never had a moment's worry or lost a night of sleep while our kids have been at Camp Pinnacle or Adventure Treks. We can't thank you enough for your efforts, at all levels. From the logistics/planning/support team headquartered in NC to trip leaders, everything is seamless; we appreciate it! The Dockendorf Family, Dave McGlashan, Dmac, Amanda, Fayssoux et al - you are the BEST! read more

What it is: A coed, teen (ages 12-19) wilderness adventure program with trips to various parts of the US. Suitable for novices with no prior outdoor experience. Trips generally include some of the following components: hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, sailing, kayaking, river rafting, rock climbing. Trips vary in length - generally 18-26 days. My son has attended Adventure Treks for the last three summers and will attend again this summer. Simply an amazing and well run organization. His first summer he did the "California Adventure" and was a little nervous about going on his own. He had an amazing time - "the best summer ever" - and made 20 new friends. They kept in touch on facebook all year. Eighteen of them reunited the following summer to do "Big Sky, Montana". Last summer he did "Alaska Expedition", again with many members from his original group. He loved Alaska - especially the kayaking and glacier climbing. AT emphasizes community - no one feels left out and they discourage cliques. What's remarkable is that they put these different kids together (coed) from all over the US (plus international students) and it just works. Excellent instructors - interesting young adults (most late 20's), who are doing interesting things with their lives. Great role models! High instructor to student ratios. "Doc" the owner/director is the heart and soul of the program - meets every child who attends and really takes a personal interest in them all. Office staff is amazing too. Strong emphasis on safety, safety, safety. Great healthy food. To parents who are considering Adventure Treks - DO IT! It's worth every penny. Your child will have an amazing, life changing summer experience. I love that my son spends 3-4 weeks every summer sleeping under the stars, laughing with friends and having real adventures. How many kids get a chance to do that these days? Great alternative to sports or social sleepaway camps. The kids really come home feeling like they have accomplished something important. Huge confidence builder! My only regret is that this will be the last summer my son, a high school senior, can attend AT. He's looking forward to "Leadership" this summer. read more

My daughter went on the California Adventure last summer. I must admit, she went somewhat reluctantly. The website stated that they promoted self-confidence, teamwork and outdoor skills/activities. We wanted an opportunity for her to step out of her little world, away from the drama of teenage life in a small town. It was a great experience!!!! She met people from all parts of the USA as well as other countries, coming from many different walks of life and different values. The outdoor experience and activities were a wonderful way for her to learn new skills as well as develop her self confidence in trying new things. The counselors were amazing! If you read the bios, they are all highly trained young professionals with lots of outdoor experience (i.e. backpackers, first responders, NOLS training, etc). The office staff is responsive and really on top of things. Doc, the director, meets each and every kid that is attending. They really know their stuff and their track record speaks for itself. When we picked up our daughter at the Sacramento airport,(last year) the remaining 6 students were all hugging, not wanting to say goodbye. This year she is on the British Columbia trip and she could not wait to go. She was excited and not nervous at all (unlike last year). Of the 24 kids on her trip, 21 were returnees!!! I cannot say enough good things about Adventure Treks. It was a stretch for us financially (both last year and this year) - it is not cheap, but when you compare it to to other camp experiences (which this is so much more) it is an incredible value. Considering what our daughter has gained in self-confidence, stepping out of her usual day to day life and the appreciation for the outdoors she has gained - PRICELESS!!!! read more

My 15-year-old son enjoys hiking and the outdoors and has been happily going to sleepaway camp for a month every summer for several years (with no problems whatsoever and only good reports from his counselors). I thought Adventure Treks would be a great step up from the usual camp experience. Unfortunately, the trip he was on (in July 2009) did not go well. He was sent home shortly before the end of the trip for disciplinary reasons, so obviously my opinions about this program were affected by that. I am sharing only my own subjective opinions in this review. My impression is that while the counselors may have a great deal of experience with camping and wilderness activities, some of them do not seem to have enough training in dealing with teenagers. A couple of the counselors seemed to have a somewhat authoritarian approach that may not be the most effective way to deal with teenage boys (again, this is only my impression, derived from speaking to my child). Out of 23 kids who went on this trip, three were sent home. There were five or six counselors present on this trip, so it was surprising to me that they did not seem to be able to cope with this relatively small group of kids, or to manage situations and behaviors that were less than perfect. My son said that one of the counselors told the kids that they were the worst group of kids she had ever worked with, which does not seem like the best way to motivate teenagers. Four days before the end of the 19-day trip, we got an email from the director that gave me the impression that things were not going well -- one counselor had unexpectedly departed, two kids had been sent home due to "self-care issues" (whatever that means), multiple kids had the "stomach flu" (and I learned from my son that one child was taken to the emergency room for treatment of dehydration), everyone was "tired and cranky," the second of two planned backpacking trips had been canceled in favor of taking the kids to a movie, and the director himself was flying in to replace the departed counselor and presumably to try to get things back on track. An hour later, I got a call from the head counselor, saying that my son was being sent home. I had to pay over $400 for a last-minute, one-way plane ticket and pick him up at the airport at 6:00 a.m. We had spent several hundred dollars on the required equipment and clothing for this trip, and at least half of his camping equipment and clothing did not come home with him (though a few things were mailed to us later). He was upset about having been sent home, and did not understand why it had happened. (I got conflicting explanations about this from the director (who never met my child) in a couple of somewhat bizarre emails after the trip, including the suggestion that a counselor had a "personal vendetta" against my son.) I do not think that my child is perfect and I think there should be consequences for misbehavior. But I was surprised that they felt that sending my child home four days before the end of the trip was the only option. However, I was not there, don't have all the facts, and can't accurately assess the situation. I do know that between the cost of the program, the airfare, and all the gear, this was an expensive undertaking, and the results were certainly not what we had hoped for. Despite all that, my son actually had a good time, for the most part, made some good friends, and described some amazing experiences like kayaking among seals. So it was not a complete disaster, but I would be very hesitant to recommend this program to other parents. Very late edit: I see that AT has now decided after all these years to revive this incident and to suggest that my son (along with the other kids they sent home) has "mental health, anger management, or behavior problems." This is not the case and these comments by AT are typical of their mean-spirited and somewhat hysterical approach to criticism, as well as their apparent tendency to blame the kids when things go wrong. Another example: in his correspondence to me, the program's director, "Dock," who appears to be the real author of AT's response, wrote that the kids who got sick from dehydration on this trip were at fault for not practicing proper "self-care" (apparently the trip leaders had no responsibility for the kids' health and safety). How convenient for AT that when things go wrong, it is always the kids' fault! My son has never had an experience like this before or since. He is a happy, college-bound kid who (as I wrote) always enjoyed summer camp and outdoor adventures. The sad thing is that thanks to AT, he is now very wary of participating in any kind of organized trip of this nature. read more

I wish I had known about Adventure Treks when my son was younger. He started when he was 16 and went to Alaska and asked to return as a 17 year old on the leadership Peak Summit Program. I cannot recommend this organization enough. They give the kids a fabulous experience while empowering them with leadership and organizational skills and a love and respect for the outdoors and for each other. read more

I can not say enough about my son's Adventure Trek experience. AT was amazing from the first conversation..The staff is incredible responsive, the program is so well organized and well thought out, the staff team on the trip are incredible role models and such positive advocates for the kids and the Colorado adventure is fun, challenging and truly an incredible learning experience! read more

My daughter just finished her 4th year with Adventure Treks. I would say this experience was one of the most transforming of her life. She gained a lot of self-confidence and made incredible friends from all over the country. She's hiked, kayaked, rafted, climbed glaciers and has become a real outdoor enthusiast- something she can take with her forever. She admired many of the counselors and I think they were good role models. I think Doc (the director) and his crew are very conscientious and caring. Every year she would beg to go back.- she's been out in the wilderness in Northern California, Canada and Alaska and would continue to go forever if she could. I would wholeheartedly recommend Adventure Treks. read more

I have gone to Adventure Treks two years in a row and loved each experience. In 2009 we had an awesome group of kids and counselors who really got along well. We hiked up Mt. Shasta, did whitewater rafting, lots of backpacking and mountain biked among other things. You're in the wilderness with kids who really like the outdoors and come from lots of different places. The Adventure Treks staff works really hard to make sure every knows what the camp is all about and then does an amazing job of getting everyone connected. I can't wait for my third year and have recommended AT to all my friends who like the outdoors and a big adventure. If you have a few weeks open in the summer you will never regret trying Adventure Treks. read more

I was actually a student on two A.T trips. I'm an outdoorsy person, but being from the city don't get very many opportunities to be in nature for an extended amount of time. My brother was an instructor for about 4 years, and I always wanted to be on a trip. I went on a trip to the Pacific North West in 2011. The trip was absolutely amazing. I made the greatest friends, some of which I still talk to today. I learned that I am stronger than I think I am and I can do anything if I try. I decided to return to A.T on a British Colombia trip, knowing that the scenery on this trip was amazing. I, yet again, truly enjoyed myself and was surprised at my own strength. I was troubled by the instructors not noticing the cliques and friction between many of the students. I personally could have seen reason to send 1 or 2 students home, but that was not my decision. The instructors did try to understand what was happening in the community, but seemed to look past these few people. I feel like my trip would have been much better with out those students. Adventure Treks is still a phenomenal expierance that everyone should try to go on. I LOVE A.T!!!! read more

Sending my kids on this summer program is the best thing I have done for my kids. They learn about nature and wilderness, about community and responsibility, the staff are incredible role models. Both my kids have attended, one for three years, and the other for four. I can't say enough good things about this program. read more

A truly horrible camp. Don't subject yourself or your kids to it. The counselors are rude and frequently mean-spirited, the food is awful and when i went they canceled a lot of the stuff including a backpack without any explanation. Don't waste your time. read more

My son went on adventure treks this past summer and absolutely loved it! The instructors were first rate and wonderful mentors to the students. He met many friends and the outdoor experiences were amazing. He was able to challenge himself in a safe nurturing environment. I felt well-informed about everything and the communication between parents and camp staff was really helpful. I think that this trip provided an outlet to explore and develop independence. My son grew in many ways and came home with wonderful experiences and memories. read more

Adventure Treks is a life changing experience. It opens teenagers' eyes to a whole new world. It teaches them valuable lessons including the fact that you can survive three or more weeks without any electronics which I think many teens don't believe is possible today. I meet people from all over the world who are great friends that I still keep in tough with, and the activities are a blast. You will surprise yourself with how you are capable of doing things you would have never thought you could do, like summit a mountain, or hike 6 miles in a snowstorm when you don't have gloves. The environment is always positive, exciting, and safe. After every year I wonder, how could it get better, but it's possible. If you are looking for an exciting adventure, go on an AT trip!!!!! You can travel to beautiful places, meet tons of fun people,and do amazing activities. It will be the best summer you have ever had. read more

I cannot say enough good things about Adventure Treks and their staff. My son has experienced North Carolina and Northern California and is anxiously awaiting Alaska this summer. He insists Adventure Treks comes first, before any of his other activities. He has loved the outdoors, the adventure and the community-building. He has asked if he can stay in high school another year just so he can spend one more summer with Adventure Treks! I appreciate how happy my son has been with this program and how much he has grown. Also, the interactions that I have had with "Dock" and his staff have been both professional and nurturing. I have found the written evaluation of my child each summer to "hit the nail on the head", showing me that they have really gotten to know my son. I appreciate both the positive comments and the constructive criticisms. This camp has been a fantastic experience and the people running it have really earned our trust. read more

I have three kids who have each gone on four Adventure Treks trips over the past 10 years. My oldest daughter was in 8th grade when I first heard of Adventure Treks. I called the office to get more information about the program and John Dockendorf, the director of Adventure Treks answered the phone himself. Several kids from our high school had gone on their trips and during our conversation it was very evident that "Dock" actually was personally acquainted with each and every kid attending the program and took a great interest in his students. My daughter signed up for a trip to the Pacific Northwest and returned so happy and excited about the outdoor activities and the wonderful kids she had met.. Ten years and three Adventure Treks kids later, the rest is history. My oldest daughter (now 23), son (now 21) and youngest daughter (now 17) each went on trips for four consecutive summers, culminating in the 4 week trip to Alaska. Adventure Treks has been such a positive influence in their lives and they have learned so much about both getting along in the outdoors and getting along with people. They made close friends from all over the country and still stay in touch with them. I think participating in Adventure Treks helped prepare my older kids to go away to college and be successful. I truly appreciate what this wonderful program has done for my family. read more

I don't have enough good things to say about this camp. My boys have gone on two Adventure Treks to North Carolina and British Columbia and are signed up to go to California this year. I feel like when they come back from an Adventure Treks trips they are their best selves. Away from electronics and school stress and in an environment filled with positive people and great role models, it's an experience very hard to find in today's world. As a parent, I really appreciate the feedback I get from Adventure Treks. Along with blog updates from the trip, I receive postcards from the instructors and at the end, a detailed evaluation of my child's strengths and weaknesses on the trip. I have used these as jumping off places for discussions that have been helpful the rest of the year as well. Also, please know that AT is not a place for troubled teens like some outdoor programs seem to be. They screen their students very well and your child must apply to go and get recommendations to be accepted. They do not want reluctant kids on their trips and this makes a huge difference in the overall experience. Don't hesitate if you are considering this camp. read more