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Adventure Camps

Working in small groups with three to four specially-trained staff members, our Adventure Camps allow campers to focus on one set of skills for an entire week. This creates an opportunity for remarkable knowledge and skill growth. Like Traditional campers, Adventure campers are eligible for induction into the Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha, Camp Ondessonk’s service society.

ALL ADVENTURE CAMPS ARE COED!

ADVENTURE PROGRAMS:


**NEW**  Mammoth Adventure Ages 13-16, Intermediate

Campers will travel to Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave National Park to enjoy the area’s natural wonders. Upon arrival, campers will explore the park first by foot, then by canoe, as we paddle a section of the Green River. We’ll camp out under the stars in one of the park’s campgrounds, then at a backcountry riverside site in the park. The week concludes with a guided cave tour of the park’s underground led by trained Park Service interpretive guides, followed by a day spent at nearby Adventure Outfitters for an experience flying through the treetops on their aerial challenge course and ziplines! This incredible trip exposes young adventurers to an area of the country not far from Camp Ondessonk, and is ideal for older, experienced campers.
Backcountry, On and Off-Camp Adventure


Camper vs. Wild Ages 13-15, Beginner

Participants will develop real-life leadership skills through participation in primitive camping activities. Skill development includes basic backpacking, outdoor cooking, map & compass navigation, fire building, water purification, and much more!
Backcountry, On and Off-Camp Adventure


Shawnee Adventures Ages 13-15, Beginner

Shawnee Adventures is designed for seasoned campers looking for a new way to experience Camp Ondessonk. Campers embark on four different one-day adventures that explore Camp Ondessonk’s 983 acres and the surrounding Shawnee National Forest to learn technical and leadership skills.  They will participate in activities during the day, such as rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing and then stay on-site at night, eat meals in the Dining Hall, and join Camp’s traditional evening activities to remain engaged in the Ondessonk traditions that they love.
Frontcountry, On-Camp Adventure



Horse Camp
Ages 12-15, Beginner

Horse Camp is designed for campers looking for an equine-specific camp experience. Campers get to enjoy trail rides through our pastures and forested trails, arena lessons improving upon position and riding technique, and will ride to their overnight spot at Durbin’s Barn. All riding levels are welcome from the first ride to experienced riders.
Weight limit of 225lbs for rider and horse safety.
Frontcountry, On-Camp Adventure



Advanced Horse Camp
Ages 13-16, Intermediate

Advanced Horse Camp is designed for the horse camper who is proficient at trotting or has previous Horse Camp sessions under their belt. Advanced Horse campers work closely with one horse for the entire week, and participate in multiple mounted and ground lessons every day. In addition to this, they get to ride their horses to the overnight spot at Durbin’s Barn.
Weight Limit of 225lbs for rider and horse safety.
Frontcountry, On and Off-Camp Adventure



Mountain Biking Adventure
Ages 13-15, Intermediate

Campers will initially be on-site, learning riding techniques, bike repair, and practicing on our extensive trail system. This program will conclude with off-site riding on some of the best Mountain Biking trails the region offers. Instruction provided by The Bike Surgeon located in O’Fallon, IL.
Frontcountry, On and Off-Camp Adventure



Climbing Adventure
Ages 13-15, Intermediate

Climbing Adventure campers spend their days practicing and learning the knots, equipment, and techniques needed to rock climb outdoors. The beginning of the session is spent climbing at Pakentuck on Camp’s property, then campers get to travel to premiere rock-climbing destinations close by in Southern Illinois. One day is dedicated to learning to ascend a rope high into the forest canopy with a professional tree climber. Nights are spent camping at nearby backcountry sites.
Frontcountry, On and Off-Camp Adventure



Horse Adventure
Ages 13-16, Advanced

Horse Adventure is designed for campers interested in exploring the scenic backcountry trails of the Shawnee National Forest on horseback. It offers the perfect opportunity to expand and develop horsemanship and outdoor skills. Throughout their adventure, campers will be taking care of the horses, setting up the campsite, cooking meals, relaxing around the campfire, and may have the opportunity to explore creeks and swimming holes. It is required that campers have previous horseback trail experience, including mild to moderately technical trails.
Weight Limit of 225lbs for rider and horse safety.
Backcountry, On and Off-Camp Adventure



Frontcountry Camping
means living in a tent at Camp or an established campground with bathroom facilities and water available.

Backcountry Camping means living in a tent or under a tarp away from a road or vehicle. Backcountry campers must carry all their supplies with them and must find and purify water each day. No bathroom facilities exist. Staff teach campers how to live comfortably without front country amenities.


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