6-tägiges Backpacking-Sommercamp-Abenteuer im Olympic National Park

My family hikes quite a lot, camps as well. But my 11yo daughter had never carried a large/real pack and this was her first overnight camp and multi-day separation from parents. My daughter was eager if mom was a little nervous. But this group put my mind at ease. Great communication, clear prep instructions, we were ready for a real adventure! The starting site and park were incredibly beautiful, great summer weather. On-site park rangers were well aware of the group which made me feel better as there was no cell service and the kids were remote for days. I stayed for the initial orientation, where the kids did a thorough inventory and were instructed on how to create a balanced pack, take care of their gear and then get it on and fit it. The gal leading the group was clearly very experienced and had a no nonsense yet fun, helpful vibe and was a font of knowledge. I really liked the small group, the similar ages (narrow age range) and most of the kids there had little to no camping experience so it felt very approachable. I was amazed 5 nights, 6 days later to pick up to a beaming kid, that clearly felt powerful, wild and independent despite being mosquito-bitten and sleeping in the open on hard ground for 5 nights. The first thing she said was not "hi dad", nor did she run to us...she said, "can I do this again next year?!" It remains her favorite camp. We will be back. With friends next time (not needed, just want to spread the goodness).