What age group is the Mountain Adventure School suitable for?

This program is designed for youth ages 13 to 15 years old.

Is prior experience in kayaking or climbing required?

No prior experience is necessary; all skill levels are welcome with professional instruction provided.

What should participants bring with them?

Campers should bring healthy snacks, water bottles, comfortable clothing, and layered gear suitable for outdoor activities.

Are meals provided during the camp?

Typically, meals are not included; parents should provide packed lunches and snacks for the day.

How safe are the water activities?

All water activities are closely supervised by trained staff, and participants wear safety gear like life jackets at all times.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations must be made at least 14 days before the camp start date to receive a full refund.

Mountain Adventure School Rock and Water in Fredericksburg, VA

Experience the thrill of the great outdoors with the Mountain Adventure School - Rock and Water, a private five-day camp designed specifically for youth ages 13 to 15. Hosted by Virginia Outdoor Center in Fredericksburg, Virginia, this adventure-packed camp combines canoeing, kayaking, tubing, hiking, and rock climbing to create an unforgettable experience. Youth participants will not only build essential outdoor skills but also cultivate independence, confidence, and teamwork in a supportive and encouraging environment. From paddling gently down calm waterways to challenging themselves on rock faces, campers engage with nature in exciting and safe ways, all under expert guidance. Running Monday through Friday, this camp encourages young adventurers to embrace new challenges while making lasting friendships. Whether it's navigating the water or climbing to new heights, the Mountain Adventure School offers a balanced blend of fun, learning, and adventure right in the heart of Virginia's natural beauty.

About Virginia Outdoor Center

Virginia Outdoor Center connects people with outdoor skills, guided river trips, certifications, and youth camps. The center offers training and experiences including Wilderness First Aid with CPR and AED certification, ACA Level 3 Instructor certification for kayak instructors, whitewater river trips, swift water rescue training, stand up paddleboard classes, guided flatwater paddles such as City Dock to Little Falls and Ely's Ford to Motts Run, rock climbing instruction at Prettymans, and multi-day Mountain Adventure School camps for youth. Courses range from four-hour introductions to multi-day certification workshops and five-day camps.

Instruction emphasizes safety, practical skills, and professional standards. Wilderness First Aid and CPR courses include a comprehensive textbook and certifications recognized for outdoor leaders. The ACA Instructor workshop prepares participants to teach flatwater, moving water, or whitewater techniques with teaching methods. Swift water and white water rescue courses blend classroom lessons with on-water scenarios to build competence in urgent settings.

Group and family river trips combine camping, fishing, and Class II+ rapids on scenic stretches ideal for beginners and paddlers alike. Stand up paddleboard classes introduce balance, stroke mechanics, and water awareness in a calm four-hour session. Rock climbing courses provide expert coaching and necessary gear for safe vertical progression. The retail store stocks VOC items and outdoor essentials for participants and visitors.

Safety protocols, experienced instructors, and clear eligibility requirements underpin every offering. The center serves teens and adults, with youth-specific programs for ages 9 to 12 and 13 to 15, fostering skills, independence, and lasting connection to nature.