Teen Camp
August 16–21 | Ages 12–17 | $560
Teen Camp is all about choice, challenge, and connection.
This week is designed for teens who want more independence, more say in their day, and experiences that actually feel age-appropriate. Each day brings a new challenge — sometimes adventurous, sometimes creative, sometimes social — all focused on building confidence, teamwork, and leadership without pressure.
You’ll spend your mornings doing camp-wide adventures like archery, the giant swing, and the adventure course, then choose how you want to spend your afternoons through one of our Teen Streams.
No matter what you choose, you’re still part of the full camp experience.
Why Teens Love Teen Camp
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You get real choice in how you spend your time
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Activities actually feel made for teens
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Space to try new things without pressure
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Time to connect, relax, and be yourself
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A supportive camp community that has your back
Teen Camp is about finding your place, trying something new, and having a week that feels like yours.
Choose Your Afternoon Stream
You’ll pick one Stream for the week — your main afternoon focus.
(Just like Adventure Camp, there’s flexibility to switch if space allows.)
Chill
For teens who want a more relaxed vibe. Chill includes classic camp activities plus unstructured time to hang out, read, play games, or do casual arts and crafts. It’s perfect if you want connection without being “on” all the time — and yes, you still get to do all the fun camp stuff too.
Dungeons & Dragons
Create a character. Build a story. Go on epic quests.
Led by experienced Dungeon Masters, this stream is all about imagination, strategy, teamwork, and problem-solving. You’ll work together to face challenges, solve puzzles, and shape a shared adventure where your choices actually matter.
Nature Photography
This stream is about slowing down, noticing more, and seeing nature differently. You’ll learn how to observe the natural world — plants, animals, landscapes, light, and patterns — and capture it through photography. Along the way, you’ll build skills in composition, lighting, perspective, and visual storytelling, using nature as your classroom.
Teens in this stream will also have the opportunity to enter the Roberta Bondar Summer Camp Photography Challenge.
Stage & Studio
Stage & Studio is all about creative expression — on stage and off. You’ll explore theatre, performance, collaboration, and visual art, including painting and drawing. The week wraps up with a Friday Talent Showcase at 10:30 AM, open to family and guardians, featuring performances and art displays. You don’t have to love the spotlight — there’s space for every role.
Additional Choice Teen Mountain Bike Downhill Adventure
If you choose Mountain Biking, you’ll head to Nitehawk Monday–Thursday mornings to work on downhill mountain biking skills. Bikes, helmets, and instruction are provided, and groups are based on ability level so you can build confidence at your own pace.
Afternoons and evenings are spent back at camp with everyone else — games, activities, and hangout time included.
A Note for Parents & Guardians
Teen Camp is intentionally designed to support both independence and safety.
Each day follows a structured daily rhythm (shared adventures, Stream time, meals, and evening programming), giving teens freedom within clear boundaries. All activities are supervised by trained Camp Tamarack staff who prioritize physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Choice with flexibility:
Teens choose an afternoon Stream for the week, with the option to switch where space allows if a different fit becomes clear.
8:8 Option Available:
Teen Camp also offers an 8:8 option, allowing campers to experience the full overnight camp day — including evening programming and campfire — and then go home to sleep in their own bed. Campers return in the morning before the first activity and breakfast. This can be a great fit for teens who are new to overnight camp or who prefer to sleep at home.
Inclusive & supportive:
Teen Camp welcomes a wide range of personalities — from energetic leaders to creative thinkers and quieter observers. Staff actively support belonging, positive peer relationships, and emotional safety.
Age-appropriate challenge:
Activities are designed specifically for ages 12–17, offering leadership opportunities and meaningful challenge without pressure or forced participation.
All Adventure Camp programs follow Camp Tamarack’s I. C.A.N. B.E. approach.
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Inclusion
Activities are adapted so every camper can participate meaningfully. -
Community
Campers build friendships and learn to support one another. -
Adventure
Campers are encouraged to try new things in safe and supportive ways. -
Nature
The outdoors is an essential part of learning and growth. -
Belonging
Every camper is welcomed, respected, and valued. -
Empowerment
Campers build confidence by making choices and discovering their strengths.
If you have questions about accessibility supports, accommodations, or which Adventure Camp option may be the best fit for your child, our team is happy to help you plan the right experience.