Adventure Camp Program Staff

Meet the Director

I have been at Adventure Camp since 1999, and I am proud to be part of this safe, fun, and caring environment where campers have an extraordinary opportunity to challenge themselves. It has been, and will continue to be, a privilege to work with your children.

I’ve had a number of experiences that have prepared me to lead our campers in life-changing adventures. After graduating from Lake Forest College, I worked with students in the ECO ACT program at the Missouri Botanical Gardens in St. Louis. At Adventure Camp, I have been a Cabin Counselor, Boy’s Camp Director, Adventure Specialist Director, Assistant Directior—and I’m now the Director.

Every year, Adventure Camp finds new ways to inspire and challenge campers. It is our goal to continually enhance this positive community. Returning campers, welcome back. New campers, get ready for a summer you’ll never forget!

Sincerely, Doug Sutherland
Adventure Camp Director

Meet the Staff

Adventure Camp staff come from across the country and around the world to share their enthusiasm, humor, leadership skills, and love of the outdoors with children. The Adventure Camp staff is committed to helping campers have the very best of summer of their lives. All staff members are college age or older. Many work during the academic year as instructors in our School Program, while others return to Adventure Camp year after year to share their love of the outdoors with children.

Training

All Adventure Camp staff attend an intensive ten-day training program prior to the start of camp. Training hones skills in group leadership and teambuilding, ropes course facilitation, adventure education, outdoor skills, and safety. All staff have first aid and CPR certifications. Adventure Trek Leaders, Trip Leaders, and Program Specialists receive six additional days of specialized training and hold appropriate certifications such as Lifeguard, Wilderness First Aid, and Canoeing.