Outdoors and adventure camps are a great fit for kids who would rather be outside than on a screen, whether that means hiking, climbing, paddling, sailing, biking, or learning wilderness skills. Below is a roundup of Outdoors & Adventure summer camps in Charlottesville and across the Commonwealth, including each camp’s location, session dates, and a link to details or registration. Camps often update schedules as summer gets closer, so this list is refreshed as new sessions and information are announced.

Boar’s Head Outfitters Camp

200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Guide your kids into a program that’s all about nature. The Boar’s Head Outfitters crew has a diverse line-up of outdoor driven activities that encourage a screen free summer. Every week is a new adventure.

  • Age Range: 6-9 (Outdoor Base Camp) 10-13 (Expedition Camp)
  • Base Camp adventures include camping skills, Nerf battle and cardboard boats, water games, & more.
  • Expedition Only includes Tubing on the Rivanna, Blackrock Summit hike, off-site bike trip, & more.

Double C Ranch

2626 Yule Farm, Charlottesville, VA 22901 | Phone: (434)443-7369

At Double C Ranch, your child will experience horseback riding like never before. Working with well-trained and gentle horses in a supportive environment, this camp is surrounded by experienced staff and wonderful horses to make an unforgettable summer.

  • Western Riding Camp: June 1 – June 5 / June 29 – July 3. Ages 5-15
  • English Riding Camp: June 8 – June 12 / July 6 – July 10. Ages 5-15
  • Mounted Games Riding Camp: June 15 – June 19 / July 13 – July 17. Ages 5-15
  • Advanced Riding Camp: July 27 – July 31. Ages 9-16.

The Living Earth School

Voted a favorite summer camp for over 10 years, Living Earth School summer camps provide children several camps throughout the summer to connect with nature in a safe and fun environment.

  • Nature Day Camps: Ages 7-13. Starting June 15th and running weekly with new themes in Free Union and Batesville, ends the week of August 3.
  • Overnight Nature Camps: Ages 9- 17. Starting June 14th and running weekly based at Montfair Resort Farm, ends the week of August 2.
  • Ancient Ways Advanced Overnight Camp: Ages 12-18. Starting July 5 – 10 at Montfair Resort Farm.
  • Summer Backpacking Trips: Ages 12 – 18. Two options including Blue Ridge Backpacking and LGBT+ Backpacking. Starting July 19 – July 24.

Oakland School Summer Camp

This five-week summer camp is for those who have learning differences or need an academic boost. Ensuring your child not only stays on track with their studies, but enjoys traditional summer fun like archery, soccer, horseback riding, art and more.

  • June 22nd – July 23rd. Ages 9+

Virginia Outside – Charlottesville

Charlottesville has a bounty of beautiful nature and this is your child’s chance to dive into hands-on outdoor experiences in the Blue Ridge Mountains, hidden trails and more!

  • Adventure Fishing Camp. Ages 10- 15. Runs from June 1 – August 7.
  • Outside Adventure Camp. Ages 10-15. Runs from June 1 – August 7.
  • Fly Fishing Camp. Ages 11-15. runs from July 6 – July 31.
  • Fish N Fun Camp. Ages 6-9. Runs from June 15- July 31.
  • Young Adventurers Camp. Ages 6-9. Runs from July 6 – July 17.