Entering grades 7 and 8 June 16 - 21

Challenge Course, Backpacking, Campfires, Startgazing, Camp Tawonga

Mix and match the best of camp and Quest on this great outdoor adventure! This Quest is perfect for anyone who has never been to Camp Tawonga before or wants to try something new after being at camp for a summer. Campers stay on camp property Sunday, Monday, and Thursday nights (see itinerary below). On these nights they will not be sleeping in cabins. Instead the group will sleep outside together, much like a backpacking trip. All meals will also be eaten as a group separately from the rest of camp. While at camp, the group will spend a day on the Tawonga Challenge Course, make s'mores around the campfire, and check out the amazing stars from Stone Couch.

The 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip in Yosemite is the highlight of this program. The hike is typically 4-6 miles each way. You DO NOT need to shop for a backpack for this Quest (though you do for all other Quests). Camp Tawonga will provide backpacks and all group gear for the trip. You need to supply 2 quart-size water bottles and a warm sleeping bag (rated for 0 or 15 degrees is best). There are no bathrooms or pre-built shelters on the trip, but our well-trained staff is prepared to make this a fun and safe experience for the whole gang!

A full day on the Challenge Cours, backpacking in Yosemite, and smores around the campfire all make this a great introduction to our Teen Adventure Trips!

For more information, please visit our FAQs.

Sunday

Meet your new friends in San Francisco and head for the mountains! Tonight get to know each other around the campfire and sleep under the stars at Camp Tawonga!

Monday

Spend the day on Camp Tawonga's Adventure Challenge Course! Low elements in the morning teach the group how to work together, and climbing high in the trees all afternoon allows you to challenge yourself! It's "Challenge by Choice" so you decide how high to climb.

Tuesday to Wednesday

Grab your pack and hit the trail on your two-night backpacking trip in Yosemite National Park! Sleep under the stars, see stunning views, and get up close with wildlife. Our wilderness leaders will teach you everything you need to know to be safe in the backcountry.

Thursday

Hike out of the backcountry and return to camp for showers and an awesome banquet! Tonight, watch the sunset over Yosemite from Inspiration Point.

Friday

It's been an amazing journey and now its time to say goodbye to your new friends and return to the Bay Area.