Most campers choose the Base Camp program, which combines in-camp activities with time backpacking out on the trail.
While in base camp, campers live as a family in small but diverse groups which are usually mixed gender and often mixed age. Each group has at least two counselors who make sure everyone shares in communal tasks like building fires, cooking, and cleaning up. Each morning, campers assemble after breakfast to learn about the activities being offered that day. Possible choices include archery, crafts, swimming, boating, arts, rock-climbing, music, and much more. Campers sleep outside under the stars most nights, or under tarps provided by camp.
Each base-camp session also includes multi-day backpacking trips (one trip for the ten-day program, two trips for the fifteen-day program). The hikes are planned to be compatible with campers’ age, interests and abilities. The three- to four-day long hikes are led by trained, experienced Camp U staff, equipped with two-way radios and other safety gear. The hikes go out into the surrounding wilderness to visit nearby lakes and creeks. Sometimes a hike is organized around a special theme, such as gourmet trail cooking or natural history. These wilderness adventures are often the highlight of the summer.
Unalayee’s base camp program creates a supportive community where friendship and cooperation flourish. Working together, campers learn new skills, build self-confidence and develop self-sufficiency, all while exploring a spectacular wilderness summer camp setting.
Learn More:
A Day in the Life at Base Camp
“This was the first time my son was away from home for an extended period of time, and when I picked him up I could almost instantly see the change in him. He was confident and independent and involved. He later told us how he had had the best experience of his life and that he loved everything the he did.” -Mother, Eureka, CA.