Director Jud's Blog

Teens + Nature + Adventure + Camping Overnights = Memories That Last a Lifetime at SMA Teen Summer Camp!

At Stone Mountain Adventures Teen Summer Camp (SMA), we believe that some of the most unforgettable memories are made under the stars. That’s why our overnight camping trips are a cornerstone of the SMA experience. These adventures are more than just a night away from camp—they’re an opportunity for campers to bond, challenge themselves, and immerse in the beauty of Central Pennsylvania’s wilderness. Let’s dive into what makes SMA’s camping overnights so special!

Are you looking for a summer job that’s more than just a paycheck? Imagine spending your days outdoors, leading exciting activities, and making a real impact on young people’s lives. At Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA), being a camp counselor is not just a job—it’s an adventure, a responsibility, and an experience that will prepare you for the “real world” in ways you never imagined.

Turning homesickness into heart longing—helping campers grow, connect, and thrive at Stone Mountain Adventure

At Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA), we know that summer camp has the potential to be a transformative experience for teenagers. It’s a place where they can challenge themselves, build confidence, and form lifelong friendships. But for some campers—especially those new to the overnight camp experience—one common challenge can arise: homesickness.

Let’s explore what homesickness really means, why it happens, and how we help campers not just cope, but thrive.

What Is Homesickness? More Than Just Missing Home

The word "homesickness" combines "home" and "sickness," suggesting that being away from home causes an illness. But campers aren’t actually "sick"—they’re experiencing a longing for the familiar. They miss the comfort of family, the structure of home, and the security of the known.

But homesickness isn’t just about missing home—it’s about adjusting to a new environment, stepping outside of comfort zones, and learning resilience.

Discover how rock climbing at our camp helps teens develop physical strength, problem-solving skills, and confidence.

At our overnight  summer camp, we believe in creating experiences that challenge, inspire, and transform. And when it comes to the ultimate blend of physical exertion, mental grit, and emotional growth, nothing quite compares to rock climbing. For teens especially, this exhilarating activity is more than just a sport—it’s a life lesson in disguise.

The Perfect Balance: Physical Challenge Meets Mental Acuity

Rock climbing is the ultimate test of balance—not just on the wall, but in life. It demands both physical strength and mental toughness, creating a unique synergy that pushes teens to grow in ways they never imagined. As they grip the holds, plan their next move, and push through fatigue, they’re not just climbing a wall—they’re learning how to tackle obstacles with focus, determination, and resilience.

The physical benefits are undeniable. Climbing builds core strength, improves flexibility, and enhances coordination. But what truly sets rock climbing apart is the mental challenge it presents. Every route is a puzzle waiting to be solved. Teens must assess their options, make quick decisions, and adapt to unexpected challenges. These problem-solving skills are not just useful on the wall—they’re transferable to academics, relationships, and future careers.

The Perfect Balance: How Structure and Flexibility Shape Life at SMA Teen Summer Camp

By Camp Director Jud Millar

As we celebrate Presidents’ Day, I can’t help but reflect on the qualities that make great leaders—qualities like integrity, courage, teamwork, and a commitment to serving others. These are the same values we strive to instill in every camper at Stone Mountain Adventures Summer Camp for Teenagers (SMA). Nestled in the beautiful mountains of central Pennsylvania, SMA isn’t just a summer camp; it’s a place where teens and tweens grow into confident, capable, and compassionate leaders.

A Legacy of Leadership

SMA has always been about more than just fun and adventure. Since my parents, Pam and Biff Houldin, founded SMA in 1983, our mission has been to create a close-knit community where campers can thrive. Growing up here on the farm, I experienced SMA first as a camper, then as a counselor, and now as the camp director alongside my wife, Anne. Together, we bring over 40 years of experience in education, coaching, and wilderness leadership to SMA. Our goal is simple: to provide a safe, supportive environment where campers can discover their strengths, build meaningful relationships, and develop the skills they need to lead—both at camp and in life.

Valentine’s Day Vibes: Why SMA is the Perfect Summer Camp Crush

By Camp Director Jud

Every year, millions of people tune in to watch the Super Bowl—the ultimate showdown of skill, teamwork, and excitement. But for teens, there’s another championship-worthy experience that rivals the thrill of the big game: overnight summer camp at Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA).

At Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA), we believe in creating unforgettable experiences that combine adventure, skill-building, and pure fun. One of our most popular activities? Mountain biking summer camp! Whether your teen is a beginner curious about biking or an experienced rider looking to master advanced skills, our program offers something for everyone. Let’s dive into why mountain biking at SMA is the perfect adventure for teens and how we balance skill development with endless fun.

The Benefits of Mountain Biking for Teens

Mountain biking isn’t just an exhilarating outdoor activity—it’s a powerful way for teens to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here’s why it’s such a standout experience at our summer camp:

1. Builds Physical Fitness: Mountain biking is a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and enhances coordination. Teens gain endurance while exploring scenic trails and challenging terrains.

2. Boosts Confidence: Conquering a tough trail or mastering a new skill gives teens a sense of accomplishment that translates into greater self-confidence.

3. Encourages Problem-Solving: Navigating trails requires quick thinking and adaptability, helping teens develop critical problem-solving skills.

4. Fosters a Love for Nature: Mountain biking gets teens outdoors, connecting them with nature and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment.

5. Promotes Resilience: Learning to overcome obstacles—both on and off the trail—teaches teens the value of perseverance and resilience.

How Two Weeks at Camp Can Shape Your Child’s Future

Summer—once a time of long, unstructured days filled with adventure, boredom, and new discoveries—is now a busy, packed schedule for many families. Kids are involved in a multitude of activities, sports, camps, and travel. Parents, especially working moms and dads, are juggling everything from work commitments to trying to find the right balance of enriching experiences for their children. It’s a different world than it was just a few decades ago, and with so many options, one question has emerged: is it enough to send your child to a two-week overnight camp?

The answer? Absolutely.

In today’s fast-paced world, we’ve become conditioned to the idea that more is better—longer camp sessions, bigger itineraries, more options—but when it comes to overnight camp, the magic doesn’t need to take a full month. In fact, two weeks is just the right amount of time to provide your child with an authentic, life-changing camp experience that will stay with them for years to come. Let’s break down why and how a two-week session is more than enough for your child to grow, make lasting memories, and return home as a stronger, more confident individual.

SMA Assistant Camp Director Job Description

Are you ready to make a lasting impact and be a part of a supportive and dynamic leadership team? Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA) is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Assistant Camp Director to join us for an unforgettable summer camp experience! We are an overnight camp for teens, ages 12 to 16, offering water sports, adventure activities, traditional sports, creative arts and community service activities designed to foster personal growth, teamwork, and fun. As a key member of our leadership team, you will be instrumental in creating a positive, rewarding, and enriching experience for our campers and staff alike.

A New Year Message from Jud Millar, Camp Director of SMA Teen Camp

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to express how truly grateful we are for each and every one of you. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are joining us for the first time this summer, we are so excited to have you as part of the SMA family. Your trust, enthusiasm, and support fuel everything we do, and we can’t wait to share another incredible summer with you and your teens.

This year, we’re gearing up for the SMA Summer of 2025, and let me tell you, it’s going to be one for the books! We’re already counting down the days to welcome your teens back to camp—to reconnect, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

In the spirit of kicking off the year with excitement, I’m thrilled to share a special treat: the premiere of our video, “The Great Canoe Rescue of 2024.” This 11-minute masterpiece is packed with adventure, teamwork, and a good dose of SMA spirit. Whether you’re a long-time camper family or new to our community, this video captures the heart and humor that make camp so special.

A Thanksgiving Message from Jud Millar, Camp Director of Stone Mountain Adventures

As we approach Thanksgiving, we are filled with gratitude for the abundance of gifts we have been given—each one more meaningful than the last. This week, and always, we are reminded of the incredible moments, memories, and people who make life so rich and beautiful.

For all of us at Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA), this season is a time to reflect on how blessed we are to be part of something so special. We are deeply thankful for the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of our campers and staff—young hearts who trust us to guide them, and a team of dedicated camp counselors who pour their energy into making this place a safe, nurturing, and transformative experience for all who walk through our gates.

An Unforgettable Experience at the 2024 NICA Eastern Regional Festival & Championships

As the Camp Director and Owner of Stone Mountain Adventures Teen Summer Camp, I had the incredible opportunity to attend and sponsor a booth at the 2024 NICA Eastern Regional Festival & Championships. And let me tell you, this was an event that I will not soon forget!

Held from November 9-11, 2024, in Elkton, Maryland, the 2024 NICA Eastern Regional Festival & Championships brought together NICA programs and leagues from across the eastern seaboard for an epic celebration of youth mountain biking. As soon as I arrived, I could feel the palpable energy and excitement from the riders, coaches, families, and spectators. This was no ordinary weekend—it was a gathering of passionate, supportive, and determined athletes ready to push their limits and celebrate their shared love for the sport.

A Gathering of Riders from Across the East Coast

The 2024 NICA Eastern Regional Festival & Championships was an invitation-only event that brought together the best riders from the East Coast. Teams from Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia all came together to compete, connect, and grow as athletes.

The weekend wasn’t just about competition, though—it was a celebration of everything that makes youth mountain biking so special. The NICA community is built on inclusion, positivity, and a shared love for the outdoors. Riders, coaches, and families gathered to celebrate the spirit of the sport in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The Stone Mountain Adventures Summer of 2024 was an awesome experience. It was our 41st summer and certainly one of our best!

On the last full day of each session we carved out some time for reflection. During this time we asked every camper and camp counselor to take 15 minutes to write down their memories from the session (We call them "Reflections"). Enclosed in this email are links to each session's Memory Book / Reflection Packet with Session Photos.

Please download them and share them with your camper. We hope you enjoy reading them as much as we have!

Every summer at Stone Mountain Adventures promises something extraordinary, and Session 4 of 2024 was no different! With campers and staff bursting with energy and excitement, we kicked off the season in spectacular fashion. Now that summer has wrapped up, we’re over the moon to share the fantastic highlights from Session 4, 2024 in our slideshow!

Every summer at Stone Mountain Adventures brings the excitement of something amazing, and Session 3 of 2024 was no exception! With every camper and staff member arriving with boundless energy and enthusiasm, it was an incredible start to the season. Now that summer has officially come to a close, we’re absolutely thrilled to share the highlights from Session 3, 2024 with you in our slideshow!

We had an incredible summer at Stone Mountain Adventures Summer Camp.  Third Session was so awesome.  Here is the 2nd Session Slideshow from SMA, Enjoy!

Each summer at Stone Mountain Adventures holds the promise of something incredible, and Session 1 of 2024 certainly lived up to that. Every camper and staff member arrived eager to give their all. With summer now officially wrapped up, we’re thrilled to share the highlights from Session 1, 2024 through our slideshow!

At Stone Mountain Adventures, team-building games are a cornerstone of our summer camp experience, and today’s activity was a shining example of their value. The game "Polebarn" brought our campers together in an exhilarating challenge that tested their collaboration, communication, and creativity. As they navigated through the twists and turns of this engaging game, they not only honed their teamwork skills but also forged deeper connections with each other. The joy and enthusiasm in the air were palpable, showcasing how these interactive activities foster a sense of unity and camaraderie. At Stone Mountain Adventures, we believe that such memorable experiences are key to creating lasting friendships and personal growth.