Family vacation doesn’t have to mean no time with friends. Teens spend the days exploring – hiking, camping, kayaking and learning how to survive in the wilderness – and protect it. All while making new friends from around the country.

Teens don’t want to spend the day with adults and they aren’t quite kids anymore. Family Nature Summits has a special teen program designed for ages 13-18.

We have high energy activities like rock climbing, rafting and an adventure race. Teens also get to hang with their group with low-key activities like games, wading in creeks and water-coloring. Each year, the teens give back to the local community by engaging in a service project such as planting trees or painting rain barrels. The teen programming includes additional unique learning experiences such as survival training where they learn to start a fire bare-handed, build a shelter or carry out an injured person.

Teens get to participate in an overnight camping trip – sleeping under the stars and waking up out in the wilderness. This experience is designed for both novice and experienced campers.

On the last night of the Summit, the teen groups present skits about their experiences at the Summit. Time to sharpen those comedic timing skills!

How Our Teen Program Works

The Teen program nurtures a conservation ethic while building outdoor skills in a safe, fun atmosphere. It is designed to challenge teens both physically and mentally.

This program is a full day starting at 8 AM and ending around 3:30 PM (unless there is a special event or overnight trip). After the official program day is over, teens enjoy independence exploring the resort amenities, socializing at meal times, and attending afternoon and evening programming with their friends and families.

Two months before the Summit begins, we send out detailed schedules, packing lists, and forms to make sure that your teen has the best experience while you enjoy activities tailored to you worry free.

Each Summit is a unique experience with activities tailored to the location. Sample activities from the past have included: wilderness survival, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, service projects, kayaking, “Leave No Trace” education and discussions, geocaching, geology, and more.