For over 100 years, Camp Lakota has helped children discover what they’re capable of through outdoor adventure. Nestled in the Catskill Mountains alongside Masten Lake, our outdoor adventure program gives campers the chance to climb higher, zip farther, hike deeper, and grow braver in a safe, supportive environment that celebrates courage at every level.
From first-time campers taking their initial steps on the low ropes course to returning adventurers conquering the zip-line, every child progresses at their own pace with trained staff who prioritize safety, encouragement, and fun. As an ACA-accredited camp, our outdoor programs meet rigorous standards for both safety and quality.
Our outdoor adventure program features a range of activities that challenge, excite, and build genuine confidence among campers.
Our high ropes course challenges older and more experienced campers with elevated elements that require focus, courage, and trust in both the equipment and themselves. Campers are securely harnessed and supervised by certified staff at every step.
What campers experience:
Who it’s for: Typically campers ages 10 and up, or younger campers who have demonstrated readiness on low ropes and with staff assessment. Every camper moves at their own pace, and participation is always encouraged but never forced.
The climbing wall and low ropes course are perfect for campers of all ages and experience levels. These activities emphasize teamwork, balance, problem-solving, and incremental challenge.
What campers experience:
Who it’s for: All ages and skill levels. Low ropes are often a first-time camper’s introduction to outdoor adventure, and the climbing wall welcomes everyone from beginners to experienced climbers.
Camp Lakota’s wooded setting in the Catskills provides the perfect backdrop for hiking adventures and nature immersion. Campers explore trails, discover local wildlife, and experience the peace and beauty of the natural world.
What campers experience:
Who it’s for: All campers. Hikes are tailored to age groups and abilities, from short nature walks for younger campers to longer trail adventures for teens.
Our Nature Shack is a hands-on learning space where campers explore ecology, wildlife, and outdoor skills in a fun, accessible way.
What campers experience:
Who it’s for: All ages, with activities adapted to developmental levels. The Nature Shack is especially beloved by campers curious about the natural world.
Outdoor adventure at Camp Lakota does not exist in isolation. Campers who love the thrill of the zip-line often enjoy our water sports program on Masten Lake, including waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and sailing. Those who appreciate the beauty of the trails may also find joy in our horseback riding program, exploring the camp’s surroundings on horseback.
Every activity at Lakota connects back to the same goals: helping kids try new things, build skills, make friends, and feel proud of who they are becoming.
Outdoor adventure at sleepaway camp offers something screens and classrooms can’t: the chance to test limits, face fears, and feel genuinely proud of what their bodies and minds can do. At Camp Lakota, outdoor adventure is never about being the fastest or the bravest; it’s about trying, growing, and celebrating every camper’s individual journey.
At Camp Lakota, safety is not just a priority, it is built into every element of our program. Our safety commitments include:
Safety and challenge are not opposites at Camp Lakota. We believe kids can take healthy risks and try hard things precisely because we create a secure, well-supervised environment where they feel supported.
Whether your child wants to conquer the zip-line, reach the top of the climbing wall, or simply spend a morning on the trail, Camp Lakota’s Outdoor Adventure program has a place for them.
Many children feel nervous when they first see the high ropes course or zipline. Our staff begins with detailed explanations, demonstrations, and opportunities for campers to watch others. Kids can start with low ropes and ground-level activities and progress to higher elements only when they feel ready. We never force participation, and we celebrate every brave step—whether that is putting on a harness or reaching the top of the zip-line platform.
Not at all. Most campers arrive with little to no experience on ropes courses, climbing walls, or wilderness hiking. Our program is designed to teach skills from the ground up, starting with the basics and building gradually. All we ask is that campers come with an open mind and a willingness to try.
We encourage all campers to try new things, but we respect individual comfort levels. If a camper is not ready for a particular activity, counselors offer alternative ways to participate—such as cheering on friends, trying a smaller or lower element, or joining a different activity nearby. Many campers who say “no” on day one surprise themselves by saying “yes” a few days later when they feel more comfortable.
Campers should wear comfortable clothes that can get dirty, closed-toe athletic shoes with good traction, and sunscreen. We provide all specialized safety equipment, including harnesses, helmets, and any other necessary gear. For hikes, we recommend long pants or leggings to protect against bugs and brush, plus a reusable water bottle.
All outdoor adventure staff are trained and certified in activity-specific safety protocols. Equipment is inspected regularly and meets industry standards. Campers receive thorough safety briefings before every activity, and staff maintain close supervision at all times. We also use age-appropriate progression to ensure campers are physically and emotionally ready for each challenge.
Yes. We offer age-appropriate outdoor adventure activities for all campers. Younger children typically start with the climbing wall, low ropes, short nature hikes, and Nature Shack exploration. As they grow and gain confidence, they can progress to high ropes and zip-line elements in later summers.