Teen Leadership Program June 29 – July 11th
The goal of our Teen Leadership Program is to develop confident, capable, and responsible community and camp leaders. Over the course of 13 days, participants will gain valuable leadership, teamwork, and outdoor survival skills—building a strong foundation for future part-time jobs, school leadership roles, and even future employment with Camp Tamarack.
Program Overview
Days 1-5: Leadership & Wilderness Training
The first five days focus on building character, confidence, and practical skills through interactive learning methods, including role-play, team challenges, discussions, and small projects.
Leadership Development
Teen leaders will explore and develop essential leadership skills, including:
✅ Effective communication and active listening
✅ Problem-solving and decision-making
✅ Conflict resolution strategies
✅ What it truly means to be a leader
✅ Goal-setting and personal responsibility
✅ Teamwork and collaboration
Wilderness Skills
In addition to leadership training, participants will gain hands-on experience in outdoor survival skills:
✅ Packing and meal planning for the backcountry
✅ Fire-building and outdoor cooking
✅ Tent set-up and campsite management
✅ Safety, navigation, and risk assessment
Days 6-8: The Wilderness Out-Trip
For three days, two nights, teens will embark on a guided wilderness adventure where they will apply their skills in a real-world setting, under the careful supervision of experienced leaders.
Note: The difficulty of the terrain will be adjusted based on the group’s overall skill level to ensure both safety and an appropriate challenge.
Day 8: Recovery & Reflection Day
After returning to camp, teens will have a full day to rest, refuel, and reflect—a crucial part of the leadership experience. They will:
✔ Unpack and clean their gear (learning responsibility for their equipment)
✔ Participate in a guided reflection session to process their experiences
✔ Recharge with nutritious meals and much-needed rest (Yes, we will feed them—plenty!)
This day allows teens to reset physically and mentally before transitioning into the next phase of the program.
Days 9-13: Leadership in Action
With new skills and confidence, teen leaders will apply what they’ve learned by assisting younger campers during our Try-It Day Camp. They will:
✔ Take on leadership roles in small groups
✔ Guide younger campers through activities and challenges
✔ Learn responsibility in a real-world camp setting
This hands-on experience is a powerful resume-builder for future jobs, volunteer work, and leadership opportunities in school.
Volunteer Week: August 5-8, 2025
Teen leaders will also have the opportunity to volunteer during our Primary Day & Overnight Camp, gaining additional leadership experience.
Additional Volunteering Opportunities
Teen Leaders may have an opportunity to volunteer a 3rd week for our Sci-ventures, Stage and studio or Adventure 1 programs
Parents: This is a great way for teens to gain volunteer hours and real-world leadership experience!
Program Requirements
📌 Open to campers in Grades 9-12
📌 Application due by March 31, 2025
📌 Teens must provide at least one non-family reference (teacher, coach, or mentor)
Why Parents Love This Program:
✅ Encourages independence, responsibility, and confidence
✅ Develops real-world leadership and problem-solving skills
✅ Provides practical experience for future jobs and volunteer roles
✅ A balance of adventure, challenge, and structured support
This transformational experience helps teens grow in confidence while being fully supported by experienced leaders in a safe, structured environment.
📢 Spaces are limited—applications open soon!
Program rate: $750
Financial assistance available through Campership and Jump Start