Alabama 4-H
Hike, rock climb, and explore the great outdoors in a whole new way through the Military Teen Adventure Camps! As a part of the 4-H Military Partnership, these camps are open to teenagers (ages 13 to 18) of active duty, guard, reserve, and retired military personnel at little to no cost.
With camps located in nine different states, each camp offers a unique outdoor experience. Teens get to participate in high-energy, high-adventure experiences such as whitewater rafting, backpacking, running ropes courses, and practicing wilderness skills, all while building leadership, self-confidence, and teamwork skills.
Camp Locations
The Military Teen Adventure Camps are located in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, New Mexico, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. However, these are open to teens from across the United States, and there is funding available to assist families with transportation costs.
Below you will find details for all camp locations—including dates, participant numbers, and activities. Specific camp details—including dates—may change based on conditions and availability. Note: Some camps have certain age requirements to attend. Registration is managed by the partnering state 4-H program that in charge of that particular camp location. If you have questions, contact the person listed for the location that you are interested in.
Arizona
Diamond Down River Rafting Camp
When: May 22–26, 2026
Where: Flagstaff, Arizona
Number of Participants: 23
Ages: 14 to 18 years old
Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgJ5hv3-1HCwhD-NxRc43FHxxQyMk6Z74HFDFye81H9uLxsw/viewform?usp=header
At the Diamond Down River Rafting Camp, teens will get to see the Colorado River like few others do!
The last 54 miles of the river that stretches through the Grand Canyon contains secret waterfalls, mesmerizing rock formations, exciting white water, and irresistible mud baths. This is a 5-day, 4-night camp that includes all camping and river gear.
The first night will be spent camping in Flagstaff, sleeping under the northern Arizona starry sky. The next morning, Grand Canyon Youth will drive campers into the canyon to Diamond Creek, where the epic adventure starts. The next three days will be spent floating down the emerald-green waters of the Colorado River. On the last day, the group will arrive at Pearce Ferry and assist in disassembling the boats before driving back to Flagstaff. There, a dinner will be held for participants and parents to reflect and celebrate the adventure.
Arizona 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Elsa Jacobson at elsajacobson@arizona.edu or (520) 621-1561 ext. 319571.
Horseshoe Bend Kayaking Camp
When: May 28–30, 2026
Where: Flagstaff, Arizona
Number of Participants: 18
Ages: 12 to 14 years old
Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgJ5hv3-1HCwhD-NxRc43FHxxQyMk6Z74HFDFye81H9uLxsw/viewform?usp=header
Paddle through crystal-clear water and camp under the stars at the Horseshoe Bend Kayaking Camp! On this kayaking and camping adventure, teens will learn outdoors skills and make new friends as they explore the famous Horseshoe Bend—one of the most stunning stretches of the Colorado River.
This is a 3-day, 2-night camp. The first day will be spent traveling from Flagstaff to Lees Ferry Boat Ramp to explore slot canyons and historic homesteads. The next day begins with an early morning boat ride upriver to the bottom of the Glen Canyon Dam. From there, campers will paddle along the river, view petroglyphs, and set up camp in the middle of the Horseshoe Bend. The last day includes a beautiful paddle back to the ferry and drive back to Flagstaff, where a dinner will be held for participants and parents to reflect and celebrate the adventure.
Arizona 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Elsa Jacobson at elsajacobson@arizona.edu or (520) 621-1561 ext. 319571.
Full San Juan River Rafting Camp
When: June 11–18, 2026
Where: Flagstaff, Arizona
Number of Participants: 23
Ages: 15 to 18 years old
Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgJ5hv3-1HCwhD-NxRc43FHxxQyMk6Z74HFDFye81H9uLxsw/viewform?usp=header
This white-water rafting journey gives teens the opportunity to explore the heart of the American Southwest! Known as the Muddy River, the San Juan River flows from the San Juan Mountains in Colorado through Utah and into Arizona’s Lake Powell.
This 8-day, 7-night camp provides all necessary camping and river gear. After meeting in Flagstaff and getting outfitted by Grand Canyon Youth, the group will be driven to Sand Island Campground in Utah to meet with the trip’s river guides. The next morning, campers will begin the float of a lifetime—paddling through thrilling rapids, sleeping under a sky full of stars, hiking awe-inspiring slot canyons, and learning about the unique ecosystems of the region. On the last day, the group will assist in disassembling the boats at Clay Hills Boat Ramp and drive back to Flagstaff. There, a dinner will be held for participants and parents to reflect and celebrate the adventure.
Arizona 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Elsa Jacobson at elsajacobson@arizona.edu or (520) 621-1561 ext. 319571.
Colorado
Gates of Lodore River Rafting Camp
When: July 19–25, 2026
Where: Denver Colorado
Number of Participants: 15
Ages: 15 to 18 years old
Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgJ5hv3-1HCwhD-NxRc43FHxxQyMk6Z74HFDFye81H9uLxsw/viewform?usp=header
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most beautiful river canyons in the Western United States! On this rafting adventure, campers will experience the scenic geological formation known as the Gates of Lodore! This formation serves as an entryway into the Green River, which flows through Dinosaur National Monument.
The 7-day, 6-night adventure begins at Denver International Airport, where the GOALS (Get Outside and Learn Something) team will meet the group for a drive to Dinosaur National Monument. There, the group with meet with the trip’s river guides to prepare for the trip. The next morning begins the scenic float through Colorado’s landscapes. Teens will paddle through exciting rapids, hike to stunning viewpoints, and participate in conservation efforts. The last river day consists of unloading the boats at Split Canyon Boat Ramp and driving to the last camp in Loma. The group will travel back to Denver the next day to depart from the airport.
Arizona 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Elsa Jacobson at elsajacobson@arizona.edu or (520) 621-1561 ext. 319571.
Joint Military Teen Leadership Summit
When: August 17–21, 2026
Where: Estes Park, Colorado
Number of Participants: 110 maximum
Registration: jointmilsummit26.4honline.com
Bordering Rocky Mountain National Park, the Joint Military Teen Leadership Summit is hosted at Cheley Colorado Camps, a family owned and operated summer camp. At this 6-day, 5-night experience, teens have the opportunity to explore the great Colorado outdoors while growing and developing their leadership abilities.
Experiences include high-adventure elements such as hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, horseback riding, mountain biking, technical climbing, archery, colt training, woodworking, arts and crafts, a climbing wall, and other activities. At this camp, teen will get to meet other military youth from around the world and share experiences while making new friends. The objective of this summit is to introduce military teens to not only their parent’s military service branch but also the growing joint nature of their work.
Alabama 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For registration help, visit the step-by-step guide at aces.edu. For more information, contact Casey Mull at state4hleader@aces.edu.
Idaho
Beyond Ready: Northern Idaho 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp
When: July 6–9, 2026 (Monday and Thursday are travel days)
Where: This camp is in northern Idaho along the Saint Joe Wild and Scenic River corridor. Campers who fly will land at the Spokane International Airport and take a van shuttle to base camp.
Number of Participants: 30
Registration: 4h.zsuite.org
Explore the Saint Joe River wilderness at the Northern Idaho 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp!
At this camp, teens can strengthen teamwork skills and make new friends all while enjoying scenic offerings of the Saint Joe River and surrounding area. Activities include casting a line into the river’s legendary fly-fishing waters, exploring the Class II river on a pack raft, hiking the mountain landscape while picking wild Idaho huckleberries, and biking the Hiawatha Trail through historic tunnels and over trestles.
Idaho 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Mike Knutz at mknutz@uidaho.edu or (208) 736-3608.
Beyond Ready: Eastern Idaho 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp
When: August 17–20, 2026 (Monday and Thursday are travel days)
Where: Alpine, Wyoming (along the Idaho-Wyoming border and Teton Range). Campers who fly will land at the Idaho Falls Regional Airport and take a charter bus to camp.
Number of Participants: 30
Registration: 4h.zsuite.org
Explore adventures in the Idaho and Wyoming wildernesses at the Eastern Idaho 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp!
At this camp, military teens will learn responsibility, decision-making, problem-solving, and teamwork while experiencing the iconic beauty of Grand Teton National Park and the heart-pounding thrill of white-water rafting on the Snake River. Complete with other activities—such as zip lining and shooting air rifles and bow and arrows—this high-adventure, high-energy camp will not disappoint.
Idaho 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Mike Knutz at mknutz@uidaho.edu or (208) 736-3608.
Kentucky
Red River Gorge Vertical Experience
When: June 12–15, 2026
Where: Campton, Kentucky
Number of Participants: 36 (18 parent-teen teams)
Registration: fcs.mgcafe.uky.edu/MTAC
Get ready to climb, zip line, and explore your way through one of Kentucky’s most breathtaking destinations! The Red River Gorge Vertical Experience is an action-packed outdoor adventure where military families can make unforgettable memories and experience the wild beauty of Kentucky.
Including stunning cliffs and natural arches, the Red River Gorge is a world-famous playground for outdoor lovers. Campers won’t just visit the gorge; they will live the adventure. Activities include hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, and zip lining 300 feet above the gorge at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. After each day’s excitement, families can kick back under the stars with delicious food, ultimate s’mores, and late-night, ultimate frisbee.
Kentucky 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Tyrone Atkinson at tcatki2@uky.edu or (859) 218-1546.
New Mexico
Rio Chama River Rafting Camp
When: July 30–August 3, 2026
Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Number of Participants: 13
Ages: 14 to 18 years old
Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgJ5hv3-1HCwhD-NxRc43FHxxQyMk6Z74HFDFye81H9uLxsw/viewform?usp=header
The Rio Chama River Rafting Camp is perfect for teens who love the outdoors or want to try something new! Campers will gain confidence, learn new skills, and experience the magic of the Rio Chama.
Located in northern New Mexico, the Rio Chama is a specified wild and scenic river that is known for its colorful rock walls and abundant wildlife. On this 5-day, 4-night camp provides all necessary camping and rafting gear.
The adventure starts in Albuquerque to meet as a group and drive to Abiquiu. The next morning, the New Mexico River Adventures team will meet the group at the boat ramp to begin the river float. For the next three days, campers will float, hike, and participate in conservation activities while enjoying all the Chama River Canyon Wilderness has to offer. On the last night, there will be a dinner to celebrate and reflect on the adventure. The next day, the group will return to Albuquerque for departure.
Arizona 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Elsa Jacobson at elsajacobson@arizona.edu or (520) 621-1561 ext. 319571.
Tennessee
Ocoee White Water Rafting and Outdoor Quest
When: July 24–27, 2026
Where: Ocoee, Tennessee
Number of Participants: 94 (47 parent-teen teams)
Registration: fcs.mgcafe.uky.edu/MTAC
Get ready to live bold, raft hard, and dive into summer at the Ocoee White Water Rafting and Outdoor Quest!
This high-adventure expedition takes military families deep into the Blue Ridge Mountains of east Tennessee to push limits, make new friends, and create unforgettable memories in one of the South’s most beautiful spots. Team up with other campers for team-building challenges and to tackle white-water rafting on the legendary Ocoee River—home of the 1996 Olympic rapids. Cool off while enjoying river tubing and fun in the lake and water park—complete with lazy rivers, wave pools, and waterslides. Take a hike with amazing views and
Kentucky 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Tyrone Atkinson at tcatki2@uky.edu or (859) 218-1546.
Virginia
Explorations on the Appalachian Trail
When: June 7–11, 2026
Where: Front Royal, Virginia
Number of Participants: 50 maximum, 20 minimum
Registration: www.nova4h.com
Do you enjoy the outdoors and trying new things? Then the Northern Virginia 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp is the place to be this summer! Spend a week stepping outside of your comfort zone and exploring the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley.
Campers will experience traditional camp activities such as hiking along the iconic Appalachian Trail, canoeing, and archery. Teens will test their adventurous sides while strengthening teamwork skills through high-rope courses complete with a zip line, rock wall, and the famous Leap of Faith. Campers will also experience hands-on lessons in environmental education, wilderness survival, and outdoor living. Lodging includes a mix of semiprivate lodge rooms and unforgettable nights camping under night sky.
Virginia 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Tatyana Yates at tatyana@nova4h.com or (540) 635-7171.
Adventures at Airfield
When: June 15–19, 2026
Where: Wakefield, Virginia
Number of Participants: 50 maximum, 20 minimum
Registration: www.airfield4hcenter.org
Ready to embrace Virginia’s outdoor adventures? A spot at the Airfield 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp has your name on it!
This camp is a great way for teens to experience outdoor education and recreation while building both friendships and skills that will benefit them for a lifetime. Campers will enjoy adventurous activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and a challenge course. There are also educational opportunities in pond ecology, outdoor living, and shooting sports (rifle, shotgun, and archery). Midweek, teens who choose to do so will enjoy an overnight camping trip, taking full advantage of the natural beauty of the Airfield Mill Pond and surrounding environment. On the trip, campers will put their canoeing and wilderness survival skills to the test. Under supervision, campers will paddle around the pond and then set up a campsite, fish, practice wilderness cooking, and cleanup following the seven principles of Leave No Trace.
Virginia 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Kathy Guindon at kathyg22@vt.edu or (757) 899-4901.
Adventure on the Lake
When: June 15–19, 2026
Where: Appomattox, Virginia
Number of Participants: 50 maximum, 24 minimum
Registration: www.holidaylake4hcenter.com
Interested in getting an up-close, hands-on experience with nature? The Holiday Lake 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp gives teens the opportunity to discover the abundance of natural resources in the Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest.
Alongside fellow military teens, campers will experience a variety of camp activities and enjoy spending time outdoors. The week will be filled with adventurous activities such as canoeing, kayaking, scaling a 30-foot climbing wall, and completing a 25-foot, high-ropes course that ends with a ride down a zip line. Campers can also try their hand at hitting the target on the archery, rifle, and shotgun ranges while learning proper shooting safety measures.
Virginia 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Heather Benninghove at heathern@vt.edu or (434) 248-5444.
Smith Mountain Lake Adventure Quest
When: July 26-30, 2026
Where: Wirtz, Virginia
Number of Participants: 50 maximum, 24 minimum
Registration: https://linktr.ee/skelton4h
Get ready to level up your summer at the W.E. Skelton 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp—where classic camp meets nonstop adrenaline!
Paddle into action with canoeing and kayaking, reel in big catches while fishing, cool off with epic swims, and test your courage on the climbing wall and high-ropes course. Sharpen your aim with archery and riflery, then dive into hands-on classes like horseback riding, livestock, wilderness survival, reptiles, and more.
When the sun goes down, the real party starts: laser tag battles, glow-in-the-dark dance parties, tie-dye creations, crackling campfires, night swims, and after-dark hikes. Every day is a new mission. Every night is unforgettable. Adventure isn’t optional at Smith Mountain Lake—it’s the whole point!
Virginia 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Rayna Wheeler at rjwheeler@vt.edu or (540) 721-2759 ext. 253.
Water, Wheels, and Wildlife
When: August 10–14, 2026
Where: Williamsburg, Virginia
Number of Participants: 50 maximum, 20 minimum
Registration: www.jamestown4hcenter.org
Love to be out on the water and under the stars? Join your fellow military teens for a week of exploration along the shores of the James River at the Jamestown 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp!
Programs and activities with an aquatic focus will include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and marine ecology. Other activities include archery, biking, and a low-ropes adventure course, as well as programs on outdoor living and wildlife ecology. In the evenings, teen will enjoy traditional camp activities such as campfires and potentially camping out under the stars. This camp includes off-site trips like a boat tour on the James River and biking on the Capital Trail of Virginia.
Virginia 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Sue Williams at wsue8@vt.edu or (757) 253-493.
Washington
Washington State University 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp #1
When: July 6–10, 2026
Where: Eastsound, Washington
Number of Participants: 70
Registration: https://extension.wsu.edu/4h/military-teen-adventure-camp/
Join your fellow military teens in Orcas Island, Washington to make new connections and develop your skills with a week of fun and adventure!
At the first session of the Washington State University 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp, campers will experience high-adventure activities such as archery, bicycle moto crossing (BMXing), climbing, swimming, zip lining, completing ropes courses, and sea kayaking. Lodging accommodations include open-air cabins and yurts. Between adventures, campers enjoy family-style meals, campfires, and other camp traditions.
Washington State University 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Stormy Ingersoll at 4h.militarycamps@wsu.edu or (360) 804-0860.
Washington State University 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp #2
When: July 12–16, 2026 (Sunday and Thursday are travel days)
Where: Anacortes, Washington
Number of Participants: 20
Registration: https://extension.wsu.edu/4h/military-teen-adventure-camp/
Join fellow military teens to explore the San Juan Islands on a 3-day, overnight kayaking adventure!
During this second session of the Washington State University 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp, campers will meet at base camp in Anacortes before embarking on an island-hopping journey. You will explore scenic shorelines, observe abundant wildlife, and experience the marine ecosystem firsthand. The itinerary includes hiking on the Cascadia Marine Trail and camping on James Island in a primitive setting surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
No previous sea kayaking experience is necessary. However, this trip is best suited for teens with the fitness level to paddle for several consecutive days. This adventure is a wonderful opportunity to get outside and connect with nature.
Washington State University 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Stormy Ingersoll at 4h.militarycamps@wsu.edu or (360) 804-0860.
Washington State University 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp #3
When: July 20–24, 2026
Where: Eastsound, Washington
Number of Participants: 30
Registration: https://extension.wsu.edu/4h/military-teen-adventure-camp/
Join your fellow military teens in Orcas Island, Washington to make new connections and develop your skills through several days of fun and adventure!
At the third session of the Washington State University 4-H Military Teen Adventure Camp, campers will experience high-adventure activities such as archery, bicycle moto crossing (BMXing), climbing, swimming, zip lining, completing ropes courses, and sea kayaking. Lodging accommodations include open-air cabins and yurts. Between adventures, campers enjoy family-style meals, campfires, and other camp traditions.
Washington State University 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Stormy Ingersoll at 4h.militarycamps@wsu.edu or (360) 804-0860.
West Virginia
ACE White-Water Rafting, Climbing, Rappelling, and Outdoor Adventure
When: June 26–29, 2026
Where: Oakhill, West Virginia
Number of Participants: 40 (20 parent-teen teams)
Registration: fcs.mgcafe.uky.edu/MTAC
Get ready for a high-adrenaline adventure in the stunning hills of West Virginia’s New River Gorge! Military families are invited to ride the rapids, fly through the trees, chill by the water, and make this the best summer yet.
Join other military families for a water-and-wilderness experience complete with white-water rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, and lounging by the lake. Tackle epic challenges, laugh nonstop, and celebrate victories together under the open sky. After each day’s adventures, refuel with awesome camp meals and snacks. Unwind at night around the campfire, swapping stories and roasting s’mores. With 4 days of thrills, teamwork, and unforgettable memories, this camp is pure adventure from start to finish.
Kentucky 4-H is the partner in charge of this camp location. For more information, contact Tyrone Atkinson at tcatki2@uky.edu or (859) 218-1546.
4-H Military Partnership
The Military Teen Adventure Camps are a part of the 4-H Military Partnership. This partnership is a supportive collaboration between military and land-grant university partners whose mission is to integrate research-based youth development programs for military-connected youth and families. For more information and resources, visit www.4-hmilitarypartnership.org.
More Information
For more information about the Military Teen Adventure Camps, contact Casey Mull at state4hleader@aces.edu.
Military Teen Adventure Camps are the result of a partnership funded by the Department of War, Military Community and Family Policy, Office of Military Family Readiness Policy, Children, Youth, and Families, and the US Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, through a grant with Auburn University.