A Day in the Life of a Camp Vertica Athlete

It’s more than just climbing…

Mornings

Life at Camp Vertica is built around movement, growth, and outdoor adventure. Each day begins at camp with breakfast and a plan for the day before heading out to hike to the boulders. Mornings are focused on climbing: projecting, skill progression, spotting practice, and applying gym training to real rock. Coaches work closely with small groups (1:3 ratio) to provide personalized instruction in movement, technique, risk awareness, and decision-making in natural environments.

Afternoons

After lunch and a rest reset, afternoons shift toward connection and exploration. Campers rotate through fun group challenges, arts & crafts, team-building games, and structured lessons on topics like Leave No Trace, access and conservation, nutrition, and outdoor skills. Some days include excursion adventures like moderate hikes to waterfalls, scenic overlooks, or other stops that break up travel and expand the experience beyond climbing. Campers also take turns helping with camp responsibilities, including meal prep and campsite setup, building independence and shared ownership of the week.

Evenings

Evenings bring more climbing or community time back at camp. We gather for dinner, reflect on the day, and wind down with campfires, songs, treats, and occasionally a climbing film projected under the stars. Throughout the week, athletes may participate in stewardship opportunities such as trail work or learning from local climbing organizations about access and conservation.

Every day is intentionally designed to balance challenge and fun so Vertica athletes leave stronger, more confident, and more connected to the outdoors than when they arrived.

Where do campers sleep?

Middle schoolers (Ages 11-14) sleep in large tents 3 people per tent. To conserve space we encourage you to pack duffle bags over hard shell bins or chests. You may choose your spot when you arrive.

As of Summer 2027, high schoolers (ages 14-17) will sleep in the Grayson Highlands bunkhouse! You may choose your bunk when you arrive.