Director Jud's Blog

At Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA), we believe in the power of balance. Our teen and tween campers come to us seeking adventure, friendship, and growth, and we deliver that through a carefully crafted daily schedule that provides both structure and flexibility. It might sound like a paradox, but the truth is, the more specific and intentional our schedule is, the more freedom our campers find within it. Let me explain.

For many of our campers, the daily rhythm of SMA is a revelation. Teens and tweens thrive on routine—it gives them a sense of security and predictability in a world that can often feel chaotic. At SMA, our schedule is designed to provide that rhythm while still leaving room for creativity, spontaneity, and personal choice. It’s a delicate balance, but one that we’ve perfected over the years.

One of the ways we achieve this balance is through our activity selection process. Each evening, I plan six activities for the following morning and six for the afternoon, ensuring a mix of water sports, adventure activities, traditional sports, creative arts, and occasionally community service. The next day, campers get to choose which activities they want to participate in. This approach gives them ownership over their experience while still providing the structure they need to thrive.

Take a look at a typical day at SMA:

At first glance, this schedule might seem rigid, but hidden within it is a world of possibility. The structure of the day allows campers to feel secure and focused, knowing what’s coming next. But within that framework, there’s ample room for creativity, choice, and self-expression.

The activity selection process is a perfect example of this balance. By offering a variety of options each day, campers have the freedom to explore their interests, take risks, and discover new passions. One day, they might choose water skiing and rock climbing; the next, they might opt for hiking and archery. This mix of structure and choice empowers campers to shape their own experience while still benefiting from the routine that helps them thrive.

Even during more structured times, like Power Hour or evening activities, there’s a sense of flexibility. Campers might use Power Hour to write letters home, play basketball "knockout", or simply relax in a hammock. Evening activities are designed to be inclusive and engaging, offering something for everyone, from the introverted artist to the outgoing athlete.

The beauty of this approach is that it allows campers to thrive in different ways. For some, the schedule provides the stability they need to step out of their comfort zones. For others, the flexibility within the schedule encourages creativity and independence. And for all, it fosters a sense of community and belonging.

At SMA, we often say that the schedule is like the frame of a painting—it provides the structure, but the campers are the ones who fill it with color and life. The more intentional we are with our schedule, the more freedom our campers find within it. It’s a dichotomy that’s hidden in plain sight, and it’s one of the many reasons why SMA is such a special place.

So, as we move through another incredible summer, I encourage our campers (and parents!) to embrace the balance of structure and flexibility. It’s in that balance that growth happens, friendships deepen, and memories are made. Here’s to another summer of adventure, creativity, and finding freedom in structure!

Until next time,

S'Moores Truely

Jud
Camp Director, Stone Mountain Adventures