Teen Rock Camp at New River Gorge

About Our Summer Climbing Camp

Our Teen Rock Camp is designed for passionate young climbers ages 11–18* who are ready to take their skills from the gym to real rock. *Mature 11-year-olds turning 12 within the same calendar year are welcome to apply.

​

Led by AMGA Certified Single Pitch Instructors and local New River Gorge climbing experts, this immersive week-long camp combines professional instruction, mentorship, and outdoor adventure in one of the country’s most iconic climbing destinations.

​

Most campers join us with some prior indoor climbing experience—many participate on USA Climbing teams at a competitive level. What unites them is a shared goal: learning to climb outdoors safely, independently, and responsibly.

 

What Campers Learn

Our mission is to help young climbers make the transition from indoor climbing to outdoor crags with confidence and competence. Campers learn to assess and manage risks, understand technical systems, and develop good judgment both on the rock at the crag.

 

By the end of the week, campers will:

• Recognize a properly built anchor

• Clean anchors ie retrieve all equipment from the top of a climb

• Identify common outdoor climbing hazards

• Understand how to minimize risk for themselves and their partners

• Learn why best practices matter—not just how to follow them

 

Our instructors emphasize decision-making, self-reliance, and respect for the natural environment—skills that last well beyond camp.

 

Why Choose Teen Rock Camp at New River Mountain Guides?

The New River Gorge National Park offers world-class single-pitch sport and trad climbing for all ability levels. It’s the perfect outdoor classroom for teens eager to expand their climbing skills.

 

Program Highlights:

• 5–6 full days of climbing at a new crag each day

• 1 active rest day to swim and climb at Summersville Lake

• Instruction by Certified AMGA Single Pitch Instructors

• Small group size: 8 campers max, 4:1 camper-to-guide ratio

• 6 nights of tent camping with bathrooms and hot showers

• All meals provided: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• Transportation by CDL-licensed drivers

• Optional airport transfers (additional fee)

• Use of all technical climbing gear (helmet, shoes, harness, ropes, hardware)

 

Evenings are spent camping under the stars at the American Alpine Club Campground, complete with showers, flush toilets, and running water. Campers enjoy campfire hangouts, card games, and downtime to relax and recharge.

 

Our Instructors

Our Guide-Counselors specialize in teen programs and hold AMGA Single Pitch Instructor certifications. They are experienced mentors who lead by example and create an encouraging, inclusive environment.

​

For the 2026 season, we’re excited to welcome back Nina and Matthew, who have led the Teen Rock Camp program for the past several years. Their professionalism, deep knowledge, and infectious stoke continue to shape the heart of our summer camp.

 

Our Program at a Glance

Now celebrating 16 years, our Teen Rock Camp has evolved into one of the most respected youth climbing programs on the East Coast. Our success comes from a combination of expert instruction, small group size, and personalized coaching.

 

We maintain a 4:1 camper-to-guide ratio with a maximum of 8 campers per session. Each participant receives individualized coaching to improve their climbing technique, technical knowledge, and understanding of risk management in outdoor settings.

 

2026 Schedule Overview

Sunday: Campers arrive at noon, set up camp, complete orientation, and do a skills refresher. Afternoon climbing session to get familiar with the local rock.
Monday–Tuesday: Full climbing days around the New River Gorge and Summersville Lake.
Wednesday: Active rest day—swim, relax, and explore the historic town of Fayetteville.
Thursday–Friday: More climbing, revisiting favorite routes and open projects.
Saturday: Wrap-up, parent pickup at noon, or shuttle to the airport.

 

Multiple session discounts are available. Please inquire!

 

How to Apply

1. Choose your preferred session date from the calendar.

2. Click BOOK NOW to reserve your spot.

3. Complete the short camper info form and pay your deposit.
   The remaining balance is due 60 days before camp starts.

 

Quick Facts

• Location: New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

• Ages: 11–18 (turning 12 within the same year)

• Group Size: 8 campers max

• Supervision Ratio: 4:1 (camper-to-guide)

• Experience Level: All levels, from Beginner, Intermediate to Advanced gym climbers transitioning outdoors

• Duration: 7 days / 6 nights