Director Jud's Blog

The Access Fund is a non-profit organization based in the United States that is dedicated to protecting and preserving America's climbing areas. Founded in 1991, the Access Fund works to keep climbing areas open and conserve the climbing environment. Climbing areas can face various threats, including access issues, environmental degradation, and land use policies that might restrict or prevent climbing activities. The Access Fund engages in advocacy efforts, conservation initiatives, and education programs to ensure that climbers have access to the outdoor spaces they love while promoting responsible climbing practices and environmental stewardship.

The Access Funds Donation Rocks Ambassador, Ken Hull recently applied for an Access Fund Climbing Conservation Grant.  After receiving notification that Donation Rocks was awarded the grant plans started to come together for the parking lot improvements.  ken received the necessary permission from Oneida Township and then collaborated with Eric Chase on design and Hawn Excavating on implementation.  

Once the upper and lower parking lots had settled, gotten rained on and were rolled out Ken and his Co-Ambassador Scott Kaltenbaugh painted parking lines and installed tire stops. Ken stated: "You may be thinking "Parking lines???" Yes, parking lines. Why? Because by directing cars to park a certain way, we'll increase the amount of cars able to park. For example: The lower lot, prior to the improvement, cars parked parallel to the road and you were lucky to get 5 or 6 cars there. Once we get the lines painted, we will get 8 head-in spaces + 4 parallel for a total of 12!!! PLUS you'll get in and out WAY easier and your passenger won't fall out of the car!"

Check out these awesome photos of the project:

All Photo Credits Ken Hull 

Everyone here at SMA Rock Climbing Summer Camp would like to thank:

• Ken Hull, Donation Rocks Ambassador and South Central PA Climbers (SCPC) Board Member 
• The Access Fund

• Scott Kaltenbaugh

• Eric Chase
• Everyone from Oneida Township 
• Terry Hawn and "TJ" with Hawn Excavating
• And everyone else who worked hard to make this project a reality!

Rock climbing summer camps are specialized outdoor programs designed to provide young individuals with a safe and structured environment to learn and enjoy rock climbing. These camps are typically held in natural settings like mountains, canyons, or climbing gyms and are supervised by experienced climbing instructors and guides. Here are some key aspects of rock climbing summer camps:

Skill Development:

1. Climbing Techniques: Campers learn fundamental and advanced climbing techniques, including proper body positioning, handholds, footholds, and movement on different types of rock surfaces.
2. Safety Protocols: Emphasis is placed on safety measures such as tying knots, using harnesses, belaying, and understanding equipment like ropes, carabiners, and helmets.
3. Outdoor Skills: Campers may learn outdoor skills such as route finding, rappelling, and understanding natural anchors.
4. Physical Conditioning: Climbing camps often incorporate physical conditioning exercises to enhance campers' strength, flexibility, and overall fitness, which are crucial for climbing.

Outdoor Experience:

1. Exploring Nature: Campers get the opportunity to explore scenic outdoor locations, appreciating nature while engaging in physical activity.
2. Team Building: Climbing often involves teamwork and trust. Campers learn to communicate effectively, trust their peers, and work together to solve climbing challenges.
3. Confidence Building: Overcoming climbing challenges can significantly boost a camper's self-confidence and self-esteem.

Safety and Supervision:

1. Qualified Instructors: Camps are led by certified climbing instructors and guides who ensure the safety of participants and teach proper climbing techniques.
2. Safety Equipment: Camps provide all necessary safety equipment, including helmets, harnesses, and climbing shoes.
3. Supervision: There is always close supervision to prevent accidents and ensure that campers follow safety guidelines at all times.

Age Groups and Levels:

1. Age Range: Camps are often tailored for specific age groups, ranging from children to teenagers.
2. Skill Levels: Some camps cater to beginners, introducing them to the basics of climbing, while others accommodate more experienced climbers, offering advanced training and challenges.

Duration and Activities:

1. Duration: Camps can vary in duration from a few days to several weeks, providing options for different schedules and preferences.
2. Activities: In addition to climbing, camps may include other outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and nature exploration to offer a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Rock climbing summer camps provide a unique opportunity for young individuals to learn new skills, connect with nature, and build friendships in a supportive and adventurous environment.