Into the Wild: Lessons in Resilience on CampOut

Each summer, CampOut stands out as a rite of passage—an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wilderness where Campers trade comforts for compass bearings and swap screen time for stargazing. But more than a backpacking trip, CampOut is a crucible of growth, self-reliance, and resilience.

This year, our Campers laced their boots up tight, loaded their packs, and hiked deep into the backcountry of The Preserve with only what they could carry on their backs. Their mission? To set up camp beneath towering hemlocks, prepare their own meals, and practice Leave No Trace principles while navigating the ever-changing moods of nature.

Learning was constant. Campers gained firsthand experience with gear management—packing smart, balancing weight, and ensuring their essentials were both accessible and secure. Setting up camp became a group effort: tarps were stretched tight against the elements, knots were tied and re-tied, and every stick and stone found purpose in a temporary, intentional home.

Evenings brought the art of backcountry cooking to life. With whispering camp stoves and the crackle of safe, contained fires, campers transformed humble ingredients into hearty meals. Each bite was a reward for effort exerted and a celebration of newfound independence.

Then came the storms.

Skies darkened. Thunder echoed through the valley. Sheets of rain tested every knot, tarp, and spirit. But in adversity, character was revealed. Campers rose to the challenge—not with fear, but with resolve. They reinforced shelters, checked on each other, and adapted with admirable calm and confidence. In every gust of wind and drop of rain was the chance to grow—to lean into discomfort and emerge stronger.

When the sun returned, so too did a collective sense of triumph. Campers looked out over mist-laced ridges and knew they had not just survived but thrived. They had learned to listen to nature’s beats, to respect its power, and to find their place within it. They carried out everything they brought in, leaving behind no trace—only memories woven into the woods and their own evolving stories.

CampOut is proof that when young people are trusted with real responsibility and immersed in wild beauty, they become more than Campers. They become stewards, leaders, and resilient souls capable of weathering any storm.