Overnight Youth Rock Climbing Camp in Camden & Acadia, Maine

2026 Session Dates & Group Size

• Dates: Sunday, August 2 – Saturday, August 8, 2026

• Ages: 12–17 (ideal for motivated, older campers)

• Group Size: Maximum of 12 campers

• Drop-Off & Pick-Up Location:

  Equinox Guiding Service Shop

  20 Mechanic Street, Suite 101, Camden, ME 04843

Campers will meet at the shop on Sunday morning at 10:00AM for introductions, gear checks, and a trip briefing before heading out for the first climbing day and camp setup.

Why Choose Our Overnight Rock Climbing Camp?

• Professional, AMGA-Certified Guides

  Every camp is led by experienced, certified instructors who specialize in youth programs and high-quality risk management.

• Iconic Maine Climbing Locations

  Climb Camden’s granite cliffs, the sea cliffs of Acadia, and the steep walls of Clifton for a true tour of Maine’s best rock.

• Real Skill Development

  Campers learn movement skills, belaying, rappelling, anchor basics, route reading, and outdoor living skills—progressing throughout the week.

• Leadership & Confidence

  Teens are encouraged to step up as leaders, support each other, and push their comfort zones in a supportive environment.

• Small Group, Big Experience

  With a max of 12 campers and multiple guides, we keep ratios low so everyone gets plenty of coaching and time on the rock.

Who This Camp Is For

This overnight camp is a great fit for:

• Teens ages 12–17 who want more than a day camp experience

• Climbers who have done some gym or outdoor climbing and are ready to learn more

• Athletes and outdoorsy kids who love adventure, challenge, and being outside all day

• Returning Equinox campers who want the “next level” camp focused on progression and independence

No advanced experience is required, but campers should be comfortable being active outside all day and spending nights camping with the group.

What Campers Will Learn

By the end of the week, campers will have gained experience with:

Climbing Skills

• Route reading and efficient movement on granite

• Footwork, balance, and body positioning

• Managing fear and staying focused on the wall

• Climbing in different styles and terrain (slabs, faces, cracks where available)

Rope Skills & Belaying

• Top rope belaying with modern devices

• Catching falls, communication, and partner checks

• Rappelling and edge safety

• Intro to anchors and how the system works (age-appropriate level)

Outdoor & Camping Skills

• Setting up and living in a tented camp

• Cooking simple camp meals as a group

• Staying warm, dry, and organized outside

• Leave No Trace practices and respect for the places we climb

Personal Growth & Leadership

• Supporting peers and giving positive feedback

• Taking on age-appropriate leadership roles during the week

• Goal setting, reflection, and learning from challenge

A Typical Day on the Overnight Camp

Exact locations and days may shift with weather and conditions, but a sample week looks like this:

Day 1 – Welcome to Camp & Camden Climbing

• Meet at the Equinox shop on Mechanic Street

• Introductions, gear checks, and camp orientation

• Afternoon climbing in Camden Hills

• Set up base camp, group dinner, and opening campfire

Day 2 – Movement & Belay Skills in Camden

• Warm-up games and morning hike to the cliff

• Focus on movement, footwork, and top-rope belaying

• Evening reflection and stars (weather permitting)

Day 3 – Rappelling & Challenge Day

• Rappelling progressions and exposure management

• More advanced climbing lines for those who are ready

• Campfire, games, and leadership activities

Day 4 – Travel to Acadia & Sea Cliffs

• Pack up camp and travel to Acadia National Park

• Climb at sea cliffs (conditions dependent) and explore the coastline

• New campsite and group dinner

Day 5 – Acadia Climbing Progression

• Climbing at another Acadia crag or nearby area

• More mileage, coaching, and confidence building

• Evening discussion on goals and next steps in climbing

Day 6 – Clifton Crag Day & Camp Celebration

• Travel to Clifton for a full day of climbing on steeper terrain

• Final big challenge routes for campers who are ready

• Return toward Camden area, closing campfire and celebration

Day 7 – Closing Climbs & Pick-Up

• Short morning climb or hike, weather and logistics permitting

• Pack up, clean up camp, and return to 20 Mechanic Street

• 3:00PM on Saturday August 8th

• Pick-up, closing circle, and goodbyes

Camp Details, Cost & What’s Included

• Dates: August 2–8, 2026 (Sunday–Saturday)

• Length: 7 days / 6 nights

• Ages: 12–17

• Group Size: Max 12 campers

Cost: $2,250 per camper

Includes:

• All professional instruction and guiding

• All technical climbing gear (helmets, harnesses, ropes, climbing shoes, hardware)

• Group camping gear (tents, group cooking equipment)

• Campground or camping fees

• Transportation between climbing locations once camp starts

• Most meals from Sunday lunch through Saturday lunch

Not Included:

• Travel to and from Camden, Maine

• Personal outdoor clothing and footwear

• Personal items (toiletries, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc.)

• Travel or medical insurance

Packing & Gear

A detailed packing list will be emailed after registration, but campers can expect to bring:

• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad

• Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing (layers for warm days and cool nights)

• Rain jacket and warm insulating layer

• Personal toiletries and medications

• Small daypack and water bottles

All technical climbing gear is provided by Equinox Guiding Service. Campers are welcome to bring their own harness, shoes, or helmet if they have them; guides will check all personal gear for suitability and safety.

Safety, Accreditation & Supervision

Equinox Guiding Service is AMGA-accredited, and all programs are led by AMGA-certified instructors with extensive experience working with youth. Safety, clear communication, and supportive coaching are at the core of everything we do.

• Low instructor-to-camper ratios

• Daily check-ins and clear expectations

• Age-appropriate progressions and challenge

• Well-vetted climbing sites and camp locations