Wilderness Road Therapeutic Camping Association

Group Living

The heart of therapeutic camping is the structures small groups process in the out-of-doors. Each camp has several groups of ten campers and two counselors (respectfully called "chiefs"). Campers are placed in groups of similar age and maturity levels, but with varying backgrounds and types of problems.

Each group lives in a secluded campsite of ten tent-cabins resembling a small village. Several sleeping tents, a cooking tent, and dining tent are connected by well-kept trails.

The tents are constructed of a tarp roof over a natural pole frame with insulated walls. Campers participate in every stage of the tent-building process, including design and construction.

From the time they arrive, campers are partners in all life around them. They and their chiefs make daily plans at least a week in advance, considering all the basic needs of safe and responsible living. They construct shelters, cook meals two days a week, cut wood, care for their mountain trails, and play games together.

With a balance between work and play, the plans themselves provide objective discipline and a sense of personal worth. Campers feel pride in their accomplishments when a meal tastes delicious or a strudy shelter keeps them dry.

The group's success depends on each camper's level of responsibility. No one can evade problems long, as the camper is known by what he says and does. When a problem surfaces, the group gathers in a circle or "huddles up" to discuss the issue at hand. Each member helps to identify the attitude or behavior and discuss solutions. The consistent approach to dealing with problems immediately becomes a habit and life skill for the camper.

Through the ups and downs of camp life, a chief remains a dependable friend and helper. This person cares enough to become deeply involved in the child's life. His dedication and care provide a secure atmosphere where healing relationships can develop.

These relationships are not built around camper's negative behavior, but through positive activities such as making a bed, exploring a creek, or constructing a new tent.