Smoky Mountain Backpacking & Rafting

The Smoky Mountain Backpacking and Rafting adventure is a two week wilderness experience set in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest. Most of the time is spent on the trail and campers should be in good physical condition. Also important is a good frame backpack; campers carry all their needs on their backs. Campers will learn to prepare their own meals. Travel to and from the mountains will be by camp van with an overnight stopover both enroute and on return at Indian Springs State Park in Georgia. There are also two nights lodging at the Nantahala Outdoor Center where campers spend a day white water rafting on the Nantahala River.

Special Requirements: Campers should be in good physical condition; non-swimmers can not go rafting.

Dates: June 13 to 26 Cost: $925

Horseback Camping in Ocala National Forest

The setting for the Horseback Camping Adventure is the Hundred Miles Trail in the southern portion of the Ocala National Forest. This is both the most popular and the roughest of the Camp McConnell Wilderness Camps. Campers should be prepared for hot weather, primitive campsites, and the demand of horse care. Also prepare for beautiful clear aquifer fed lakes, cool nights, isolated campsites, and fellowship around the campfire. There will, also, be many hours in the saddle. Campers operate out of one base camp (Doe Lake). Camp provides tent, blanket, ground pad, food, and horse supplies. Food is prepared on an individual basis. Long pants and leather shoes or boots are a must. A long cargo bag is recommended, though a backpack will also work. A light backpack is needed for day trips to carry a lunch and a towel.

Special Requirements: Campers should have enough past riding experience to feel comfortable on horseback (we only have a day & a half for orientation).

Dates: July 18 to 24 Cost: $495

Canoeing the Suwannee River

This is a one week camping and canoeing adventure. A leisurely pace is set to allow plenty of time for swimming at the many natural springs that dot the route. Campers carry all their supplies in the canoes with them. A new campsite is established each night. Most meals are prepared on an individual basis. Personal belongings are best packed in a small cargo bag. Waterproof belongings by using a heavy garbage bag as an inner lining. Fishing equipment may be used.

Special Requirements: Campers should be good swimmers (100yd crawl stroke). Life jackets furnished and required to be worn.

Dates: June 6 to 12 Cost: $375