YMCA of the Pines offers Wilderness Expeditions

BOLD & GOLD at Camp Ockanickon and Camp Matollionequay

Outdoor Leadership Development

Our boys and girls Outdoor Leadership Program offers the opportunity for youth to develop leadership skills in a diverse group of peers ages 12-15.  While hiking or canoeing through the wilderness and overcoming challenges together, youth have the opportunity to develop courage, confidence, emotional intelligence, community awareness, and a sense of wonder – all necessary skills for success in school and in their communities.

We offer both single gender and all gender trips that visit some of the most beautiful parks in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

Session 1: Groundbreakers: Service Trip
Ages: 12-15 years old
Make a powerful difference in the local community by taking on new service projects daily while returning to camp each night for fun activities! Learn to become an empowering leader as you take on a different project each day.

Session 2: Adventure Sampler
Ages: 13-15 years old
Experience a thrilling week of adventure trying some of camp’s most challenging activities-high ropes, survival skills, kayaking, plus an off-site canoeing and hiking adventure!

Session 3: Rangers I and Session 4: Rangers II
Ages: 14-16 years old
Rangers is a capstone of the Ockanickon and Matollionequay camp programs. This 9-day, 8 night off-site back-country journey will challenge campers as they backpack through a section of the Appalachian Tail and paddle through the beautiful Delaware River National Recreation area.

Session 5: Castaways: Canoe/Fishing Trip
Ages: 12-14 years old
Head out on camp’s fishing and canoeing odyssey! Spend 4 days and 3-night paddling down the Susquehanna River, casting your reels, and practicing outdoor living skills.

Session 6: Trailblazers
Ages: 13-5 years old
Explore the legendary Old Loggers Path in Pennsylvania! Start your journey in an old ghost town and head out on an amazing 27-mile journey through an incredibly scenic forest. Hike between 5 and 9 miles a day for 4 days and spend 3 nights camping on the trail.

Session 7: Canoe & Survival
Ages: 12-14 years old
This co-ed, week-long adventure will have you paddling 40 miles down the Susquehanna, mastering survival skills, and conquering the wilderness!

Click here for Dates and Rates

Our wilderness instructors hold certifications in Wilderness First Aid, CPR and Lifeguarding (for boating expeditions).  Instructors also receive extensive training on leadership development and backcountry living skills.
For packing list, please see the Parent Handbook