Junior Camp:
Valley Mill Camp offers a coed program for four and five year old, preschool children. The “Bees,” as this group is called, have their own headquarters in the woods and a schedule that allows for creative outdoor play. The children also participate in many of the regular camp activities, but at a more relaxed pace.
Counselor In Training:
The CIT Program is provided for 14 and 15 year olds who enroll for the season or first session and are selected by the staff. The CIT’s begin by raising their own skill levels
in each activity, while attending weekly seminars to discuss teaching methods. They plan their own schedules, organize special activities, and practice teaching under the guidance of a senior instructor.
At Valley Mill Boys Camp, each boy is placed into an age group under the direction of a group counselor. With his group he attends activities, assemblies and special events. Activities of younger age groups are paced to their capacities, while older boys have ample opportunity to excel.
We emphasize the development of group cohesiveness and of resilience through outdoor challenge. Many boys attend Valley Mill year after year, finding increased interest and deepened experiences each time.
Activities :
Nature Studies:
Campers are introduced to the plant and animal life on the camp grounds, which is quite extensive. They learn to find their way in the woods, Cook-out and camp out, build a natural project. Each session the groups that can work well together may qualify for a cook-out or overnight at camp after hours.
Canoeing and Kayaking:
All ages may participate in the Canoeing and Kayaking program on our two acre lake. Beginners start in open canoes or in kayaks gaining confidence in boats and learning control under careful supervision. As their skills improve, campers may learn Eskimo rolls, slalom racing techniques and river running skills. River trips leave camp daily for nearby Potomac and open to those who qualify.
Campers may learn hand rolls, slalom racing techniques and river running skills. River trips leave camp daily for the nearby Potomac and are open to those who qualify.
Rock Climbing:
Safety measures are of utmost importance when campers are climbing our 25’ training wall. Instruction in the use and care of all rock climbing equipment is received by each camper before he gets off the ground. Occasional trips to Carderock will be available to the more advanced climbers who qualify.
A qualified instructor stresses strict range discipline while following the guidelines of the American Archery Association and the National Rifle Association. Certification awards provide a great incentive.
Swimming
Individual attention and instruction are given daily at every level of swimming ability. Classes are based on The Red Cross Learn to Swim program. In the afternoon the campers have a free swim. Older campers progress to more advanced swimming, competitive swimming, and survival skills.
Gymnastics
Parallel bars, tumbling, vaulting box, trampoline and gymnastics competition are all part of the gymnastics program. Our experienced gymnasts share their techniques which develop strength and skill.
Soccer
Our Soccer program encourages team work and cooperation. Instruction in dribbling, passing, shooting and maintaining position are emphasized.
Archery and Air Rifle
A qualified instructor stresses strict range discipline while following the guidelines of the American Archery Association and the National Rifle Association. Certification awards provide a great incentive.
