Working in small groups with three to four specially-trained staff members, our Teen Adventure Camps allow campers to focus on various sets 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 TEEN ADVENTURE CAMPS ARE COED!
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 to expand their equine 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 introductory to experienced riding. Campers who have never ridden a horse before are encouraged to attend Traditional Camp to acquire their first riding experience.
Weight limit of 225lbs for rider and horse safety.
Frontcountry, On-Camp Adventure
Eco Adventure
Ages 13-15, Beginner
Eco Adventure is perfect for campers looking to explore Camp Ondessonk in a unique and meaningful way. This service-learning program combines hands-on ecological work with outdoor adventure, all while helping care for Camp Ondessonk’s 983 acres and the surrounding Shawnee National Forest. Campers will gain valuable skills in ecological restoration, trail stewardship, and leadership as they participate in conservation projects combined with periodic adventures, such as top-rope rock climbing or mountain biking. To round out the experience, campers will join in Camp’s traditional Friday afternoon and evening activities, staying connected to the Ondessonk spirit and traditions they love.
Frontcountry, On-Camp Adventure
Art & Earth Adventure
Ages 13-15, Beginner
Connect with nature and awaken your creative spirit at Art & Earth Adventure. This week-long immersive experience invites campers to explore both the arts and the natural world through hands-on activities like wildcrafting, storytelling, regional artisan crafts, and more. On Friday afternoons and evenings, campers will also take part in Camp Ondessonk’s beloved traditional activities, staying rooted in the traditions they cherish. Discover new ways to interpret the beauty of nature—and share that connection with the world around you.
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
Get ready to ride! Camp Ondessonk, in partnership with The Bike Surgeon in O’Fallon, IL, is proud to offer an intermediate Mountain Bike Adventure program designed for campers eager to sharpen their skills and explore new terrain. The journey begins on-site, where participants learn essential riding techniques, bike maintenance, and gain confidence on our extensive trail system. Later in the week, the adventure shifts off-site to Kentucky, where campers can experience some of the region’s best mountain biking trails.
To qualify for the program, you must be between the ages of 13 & 15, have mountain bike riding experience, and be prepared to camp out in a tent or hammock.
Please note: Because this is a technical, primarily off-site program, an application and approval process are required prior to registration.
Submit your application today!
Only offered Session 2, June 7-13, 2026!
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.
