Nature's Classroom
ADVENTURE CAMP
Hancock, NH
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Greetings Adventure Camp Families and friends,
First off, I'd like to thank all campers, families and staff for a wonderful summer 2022. It was truly a great summer, the best of my 6 summers at Adventure Camp. Amazing staff, amazing campers, and amazing families as always.
Now for the news I've put off far too long and I apologize for that. Unfortunately, after summer 2022 ended Boston University decided not to extend Nature's Classroom's lease any further. This essentially means that Nature's Classroom Adventure Camp will not be happening for summer 2023. BU was always excellent to Nature's Classroom and provided a lot of support through COVID but with limited programming for 2 years at the facility a decision had to be made.
I know how much this camp means to many campers, staff, and families and it means a lot to me too. Camp shaped my life as I've been a part of camp programming at various camps since I can remember. Nature's Classroom Adventure Camp was a special program on a beautiful property, but it was the quality of the community we created that made it so incredible. Having the opportunity to watch campers campers and staff grow these past 6 summers was an experience I will carry with me forever. I hope that one day I can figure out a way to re-create a version of Adventure Camp somehow, somewhere, but for this upcoming summer I've decided to take a step away from camps. These past 2 years have been extremely challenging and without getting into the gory details, I'll just say a change of pace is needed for a bit.
Currently, I'm not sure what Boston University is planning to do with the facility. I know the Friends of Sargent organization are working hard and expanding in order to help rebuild something and I'm certainly rootling for them! BU still has amazing maintenance staff at Sargent keeping everything looking good and running properly.
Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions. There still isn't a lot of info out there as to what may be in store for the future of Sargent Center. I am now currently in Colorado working for a new Outdoor Education program and quite busy so its tough to respond very efficiently. Its been a challenge to get everything in order personally as I settle in out here for a new chapter of life. I love Nature's Classroom Adventure Camp and if there is ever a chance to rebuild I would happily support that any way possible.
I wish all campers, families, and staff the very best and thank you all again for helping to create the greatest camp community I've ever been a part of.
Sincerely,
Matt Caliendo - Adventure Camp Director
ADVENTURE QUEST - 13 DAY PROGRAM
Ages 10 - 12
What is the Adventure Quest Program?
The Adventure Quest Program is similar to the Adventure Challenge Program with the added benefit of a 2 night 3 day campout on camp property! Campers will select from the same awesome adventure activities as the Adventure Challenge program and participate in three activity blocks a day. Opportunities to learn new skills, meet new friends, and have fun in the outdoors are all part of the adventure!
What will I do?
Campers spend time in the morning with their field group participating in group challenges, wilderness skills, orienteering, adventure hiking, nature art and working on the K.E.Y. to Adventure! You will also prepare for a 2 night campout that will take place on campus during the middle weekend of the session.
Campers participate in activity blocks, enjoy free time and all camp evening activities each day. Campers will take the same three activities each day as they learn to fly fish, canoe, rock climb and more! The Adventure Quest program allows campers to take new activities the second week for a total of six amazing activities during the session.
When do I sign up for activities?
Campers will choose their activity preferences at camp. Our staff will advertise the various offerings in a fun way and campers will then get to choose what they want.
ACTIVITY CHOICES
Intro to Paddle SportsLearn the fundamentals of Kayaking and Canoeing at camp right here on our own Halfmoon pond. Paddle strokes, parts of the boat, wet exits, and games are all part of the fun! Campers will be taught the American Canoe Association curriculum for White Water Kayaking, Sea Kayaking and Canoeing. They will spend each of the first three days in a different boat and then choose their favorite boat on the final day. | Rock ClimbingLearn how to properly fit a helmet and harness. Speak the climber language to make sure your supporting and being supported by other campers. Climb as high as you can & even design your own route! | Primitive Living SkillsCamper vs. Wild. Use ancient tools to create fire without matches or lighters. Learn to build a shelter with what you find in the woods. Learn about, cordage, wild edibles, wooden spoon making and much more! |
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ArcheryLearn the parts of the bow & arrow, safe handling, and proper shooting technique. After some practice, challenge yourself to get closer to the bull's eye as your target gets farther away! | High Element AdventureGet dressed for success as you suit up in a helmet & harness. Push your comfort zone and trust in your friends as we all work towards achieving your own personal goal on some of our daring elements like the Dangle Quad, Flying Squirrel, and Raptor’s Watch! | Low Ropes“Teamwork makes the dream work.” Learn how to problem solve, work together, & push your limits as your group balances, swings, crosses, and climbs their way through our Forest of Challenges. |
Pioneering SkillsLearn how the pioneers carved a life out of the wilderness. Use the same tools to cut, pound, & blacksmith a take-home souvenir for yourself. | PhotographyLearn how to use a digital camera to not just take pictures, but take great pictures of camp life. Use your photos to make a slideshow for all to see. | Backcountry BakingBecome the chef of the woods as you learn to handle & prepare food on stoves, dutch ovens, or over the open fire. The best thing about this class is that you create something fun to eat each day! |
WildcraftingThis new activity will blend popular wood working activities such as bowl carving and flute making, with other nature based hand work projects such as leather crafts and basket making. | Spincast FishingAfter learning how to setup your fishing rig you will enjoy getting onto Halfmoon pond right here at camp. You and your fellow campers will practice your fishing skills from our float tubes in this catch and release activity. | Nature ArtGive your muscles a break & your creativity a workout as you turn nature's beauty into your own work of art. Work to create a nature sculpture or a nature art journal to take home! |