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Let the Adventure Begin!
Let the Adventure Begin!
Whether your camper is just starting to explore the great outdoors or has years of experience learning in nature, hiking, or camping - we are ready for their adventure! This summer, we are excited to get to know your camper and show them the wild world around them. We will be sure to teach your camper how to be in the outdoors safely, and how to learn from, and appreciate its wonder!
Below you will find various resources and guides to help you prepare for your camper's session. Please be in touch if you have any questions.
Meet the Team!
Meet the Team!
Dan Walsh
Dan Walsh
Adventure Camp Director
Adventure 101 Lead
Lugh Cunningham
Basecamp Lead
Jane Villa
Frontcountry Lead
Jessica Perkoski
Backcountry Lead
TBA
Overnights and Trips
Overnights and Trips
Click to learn more about the overnight and trips your camper may experience during Adventure Camp!
Permission Slips
Permission Slips
Adventure Tracks
Adventure Tracks
Adventure 101
Adventure 101
8-11 Years
Adventure 101 is a two-week introduction to Hale Adventure Camp. It teaches campers basic skills and how to be safe in the outdoors and educates them about local plants and wildlife.
Basecamp
Basecamp
9-11 Years
Basecamp builds on Adventure 101 by introducing a single overnight experience. During the first week, a trip to Mt. Wachusett invites hikers to hike a monadnock and refuel with lunch at the summit. Then, during the second week, they camp overnight at Hale—and practice cooking over an open fire, setting up and breaking down tents, and safely recreating outdoors after dark.
Frontcountry
Frontcountry
11-13 Years
Frontcountry builds on Basecamp with two camping opportunities—one at Hale, the other in the Berkshires or the White Mountains. This two-week program includes an overnight during the first week of each session and a multi-day trip during the second week. The overnight at Hale refreshes skills and builds camaraderie. The 3-day/2-night trip to the Berkshires, White Mountains, and other mountain ranges, tests their skills. Services and facilities are readily accessible during all Frontcountry trips.
Backcountry
Backcountry
12-13 Years
Backcountry appeals to experienced graduates of Frontcountry who have big appetites for adventure. This two-week program includes an overnight during the first week and a multi-day trip during the second week. The second trip is a true backpacking experience: no services, no facilities. Our expert guides help campers traverse 7–13 miles of trails that ascend various 4,000-footers throughout New Hampshire’s White Mountains. When campers aren’t hiking, they can also climb on our challenge course throughout their time at Hale, and compete in the Outdoor Skills Gauntlet at the end of each session.
Wilderness Guide in Training
Wilderness Guide in Training
Weeks 1 & 2
Weeks 1 & 2
During the first two weeks, participants learn what it means to be a leader in the outdoors. You’ll explore workplace policies, organizational structures and routines, and practice skills needed to support youth in outdoor settings. There’s fun in store, too—you’ll engage in camp activities and attend an off-campus event.
Weeks 3 & 4
Weeks 3 & 4
After exploring opportunities at Hale and with guidance from program supervisors, you’ll choose a “trail” to continue learning. You’ll shadow staff members for longer periods of time, begin assisting with activities and instruction, and ultimately take responsibility by leading a portion of the day for a group.
The culmination of this experience is a 5-day backpacking trip in the White Mountains. You’ll confidently navigate New Hampshire’s famous 4,000-footers with your cohort of fellow Wilderness First Aid-certified guides as you prepare meals in the backcountry and camp trailside.
Schedule at a Glance
Schedule at a Glance
Below is a sample of what a day at camp could look like! Activities and timing change daily depending on groups and program level.
Below is a sample of what a day at camp could look like! Activities and timing change daily depending on groups and program level.
Welcome to Hale! Campers are dropped off, ready for another day of learning in nature.
Morning Circle/Roles of the Day and Announcements
Campers move into their morning circle. Our instructors review the daily schedule and answer any questions.
Campers transition into interactive group games with instructors, we well as a review of the values contract.
Hike to Storrow Pond and Fishing
The adventure for the day begins with a hike out to Storrow Pond, located on our grounds. Campers drop a line and fish in the pond, guided by our instructors.
Leave No Trace Lesson
Lunch
Always one of the campers’ favorite activities—lunchtime! Campers refuel and catch up with friends before jumping back into instruction.
A Dip In The Pond
Campers hit the beach to swim and refresh. Nothing beats the summer sun more than cooling off in the pond.
Boating
Campers hop on our provided boats (with lifejackets, of course) and learn how to navigate the waters.
Camp Clean Up
Once campers return on-site, it’s time to clean up and tuck supplies away. This helps keep campers organized and feeling responsible for their things.
Board Buses
The end of the day is already here! Campers board buses and return home to rest before returning for another day in the outdoors at Adventure Camp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ratio of counselors to campers in Adventure Camp?
Every group maintains a ratio of 1:6. There are always 2 counselors for each group to ensure camper safety.
Does my camper need hiking boots?
We highly encourage campers to attend camp with sturdy sneakers, and hiking boots are an even better option! The trails at Hale can be quite technical, especially getting to the various peaks. Hiking boots allow for better grip on surfaces and additional ankle support when navigating rocky terrain.
When are overnights?
Overnights are only during two-week sessions of Adventure Camp (Basecamp, Frontcountry, and Backcountry). During the first week, there is a one-night overnight on Thursday for Front and Backcountry. During the second week, there is the three-day, two-night overnight, Wednesday-Friday for Front and Backcountry, and a one-night overnight for Basecamp, Thursday-Friday.
What equipment does my camper need?
Please check out our packing lists!
Does my camper need to attend the overnight?
We highly encourage our campers to push their comfort zones and stay with us for the overnight experiences! These opportunities allow campers to gain more outdoor skills, build confidence, and walk away with memories that last a lifetime!
Where do campers stay on overnights?
All campers stay at Hale for the one-night overnights. The different groups camp at various sites around Hale with their camp staff. During the extended overnights in the second week, Basecamp stays at Hale; Frontcountry and Backcountry rotate through campgrounds and camping locations. We will share these with families each session!
What if my camper takes medications at night or in the morning?
If your camper is staying with us overnight, we will need a Medication Authorization Form for any and all medications taken at night or in the morning. This includes melatonin, allergy meds, inhalers, epi-pens, etc.
What are the sleeping arrangements for campers?
Hale provides various tent options for campers. The majority of Basecamp tents are 4-person tents, while Frontcountry and Backcountry have a mix of 2– and 3-person tents.
Do counselors stay awake at night on overnights and trips?
Our counselors need their sleep to supervise and maintain the group’s safety. Counselors set rules for when all campers need to be in their tents and trying to get to sleep. Staff will sleep but are available throughout the night for our campers, as needed.
What happens if my camper is NOT able to attend overnights or will not be attending?
Campers must be picked up at the usual pick-up times, or go home on the bus.
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