Director Jud's Blog

Stone Mountain Adventures Session 3, 2026

Memory Book

Eila O’Reilly reflection

This was my first year at SMA and I definitely don’t want it to be my last!! Rock masters was so much fun and I learned a lot of new rock climbing skills from Tanny (like how to belay from the top). I don’t climb outdoors very often at home so it was cool doing all the outdoor bouldering and ropes I also enjoyed the time when it was pouring rain and we were at the lake. Only me, Seth, and Zach swam but it was sooo fun. I tried all of the activities but some of my favorites were the climbing, overnights, hiking, and swimming. The adventure overnight was definitely my favorite because we did some really pretty hikes and found this awesome swimming spot along a river and we were able to free climb on the rock wall and jump off into the water.

Talia Smerecki reflection:

Even thought I only got here 1/2 way through the session, I feel like I’ve been here all summer. Camp has really shown me how to survive outside my comfort zone over the past 5 years. I will always be grateful for SMA and the lovely counselors and campers that have made this place so special to med I’ve met some of my favorite people on this earth during my time here. SMA forever holds a special place in my heart❤️

Spenser Vinjamuri reflection:

So my time at camp is about done and I want to stay longer and I would give anything. But I’m appreciative and wouldn’t have wanted my summer spent any other way. The highlight of my whole summer was seeing my best friend here and it’s something that will hopefully carry on for many years to come. I can’t express how grateful I am for this place and I know I’ve said it but over the years this place is where I’ve grown through a whole session. It’s truly been a blessing and I’ve had possibly one of my best nights at camp ever. I’m just so appreciative for this place that has helped me become who I’ve wanted to be and thanks to Jud for making this happen. Signing out of 4th session on year 5, Spenser

Parker Callahan reflection:

This session has been probably my favorite sessions in all the time I’ve been at SMA. I say this because of all the amazing activities and people I have met. I really had fun playing soccer with counselors like Tanny, Kevin, and Val and campers like Oliver, Noam, and Lucas V, and a bunch of other people. The canoeing overnight was also really fun thanks to the scary stories we told around the campfire and the thirty minute bathroom trips with Ben, Baffa, and Mini Alex. I also really enjoyed going bowling and playing spit with Lily and Alana. One of my favorite Jud games that we did was the invention convention, because I was the salesman and we improvved half the skit. This year’s white water rafting trip was the best one because I actually got to enjoy the scenery aside from when Ben and I flew off the raft. Out of the three years I’ve been here, I’ve been in two cabins, and furnace has definitely been my favorite. This is because of the people in the cabin and all the amazing traditions that come with the cabin. Also hanging with Gavin and Nick was really fun.

Phoebe Gelfand reflection

This year was my first time at SMA and I had so much fun. I tried a bunch of new things like wakeboarding and mountain biking. When coming here I was nervous about making friends, but I quickly had some within the first few hours. My favorite activities here were probably wakeboarding and rock climbing. At SMA I found out more about myself and the people I want to spend time with. I learned how to be more spontaneous and dyed my hair with some of my friends. I had such a great time here and I can’t wait to come back next year!

Alexander Rutherford reflection:

Dear SMA, I think this is the best camp I have ever been to! I had so much fun playing with my friends and making new ones. My favorite thing about this camp is that you have so much freedom. You can literally play any game, sport, or activity. But my favorite thing is evening activities. They help you wind down or get you even more rowdy! My favorite evening activity by far was French Revolution! I loved hi sneaky you had to be and how witty you had to be. There are so many more great things I could talk about, but that list would be too long. I loved everything about this camp and I want to come back next year!

Your friend,

Alex

Dante Otero reflection:

Overall, my first year at SMA was really round and there’re was a lot of fun activities. Jud games in the afternoon was really fun, and was very creative. I think white water rafting was my favorite day/activity. The times that we went out, like bowling, and icecream was really fun. The 2 weeks at SMA camp was really fun!

Gavin Porsche reflection:

After another session at SMA I don’t think it went that bad! I have to say during inter session I had high expectations after how good session 2 was. This session I actually made it through the whole talent show without being brought to the ER. I have to say though, the amount of friends I made this session was awesome. There are so many memories I am leaving with. After 3 years, this might have the best year I have had the amount of fun I had with the counselors is insane. I can’t thank Jud, SMA, for all the memories I am leaving with. This year is most likely my last but I am not sad it is over, I am happy that it happened. Thank you SMA

Evan Dambal reflection:

Session 3 at SMA was very fun. I was bike masters and It was good. The trails at SMA are pretty good and have some good jumps. The other trails are good too. I really liked the wakeboarding overnight and it was good. I stood up on the second day and stayed up for a bit. The white water rafting trip was good and I liked the food we stopped at. It was my first time at McDonald’s. The laundry was necessary because I did not have any more clean clothes. Most of the sports were very good and I liked the bike overnight. French Revolution was good too. Stopping at Sheetz was good. After the canoe float we caught some crawfish. They tasted good. The community service was fun and putting the fence in was easy. Overall, my 2 weeks at SMA was very good.

Bennett Growick reflection:

These 2 weeks of DMA were amazing. I have made a really good amount of friends and memories. The amount of activities here are amazing. They are also so fun. The amount of times I have laughed is uncountable. I love SMA so much. I am so glad I got to come back. I cannot wait to come back next year!

Oliver Petit reflection:

SMA session 3 was an amazing experience that I will never forget. On the first day of camp I was very nervous because I did not know anyone who would be in session 3. Luckily I made friends and settled in well. Some of my favorite things at camp were the overnights. I went on the climbing overnight and the wakeboarding overnight. The climbing overnight was really fun because it was pretty small and we got to see great views and climb great climbs. The wake overnight was also a blast and I stood up on the wakeboard. I played a lot of tennis too and I improved a lot through the weeks. Overall SMA session 3 was a fun and changing experience.

Luis Oms reflection:

On the first übermorgen of camp I met many new people. I played spike all with Asian and Alex. On the second day I did wake masters. I was able to stand up and ride for a little. On the second day I did rock climbing and a hike. The rock climbing was fun but there were a lot of spiders on the wall. Over the past few days I’ve done fun activities like foosball, sup-n sail, French Revolution, soccer, white water rafting, the talent show, and bowling. My favorite so far was the all day wake masters we did tuning, cliff diving, and wake boarding. Tubing was really fun because we did doughnuts and went over really big waves. Cliff diving was really scary but I jumped from 35 feet high! Finally, wakeboarding was really fun because I stayed up for a long time and did it with one hand and put the other one in the water. Camp this year was really fun and I really want to come back next year.

Alana Chan reflection:

When session 3 started I really missed some of my friends from session 2 but now it’s already the last full day and I would rather do anything but leave. It’s my last session and last year I am going to this camp so making the most of it has been my goal. I get to spend so much time with my friends and so so many activities and I’m really grateful for the opportunity to do all that. I already know I’m going to miss this place so much. With all the new people I got to meet and old friends I could catch up with. It’s been an amazing 4 weeks and I’m so happy I got to spend them here.

Lucas Laudier reflection:

I really liked s3 because there were a lot of fun moments. Such as when I got to build a new MTB jump, or when I cleared the wake while wake boarding. I also got to climb a new route at the rock walls. I also really enjoyed the white water rafting trip. Heralding really enjoyed session 3.

Benjamin Pettit reflection:

I liked it. I enjoyed being here and since it’s probably my last time ever being here, I appreciated every moment, including when camp was slow and peaceful. I also just enjoyed being around old and new friends and spending time being away from society. It feels isolated but I feel completely relaxed and nothing is pressing on my mind. It is a very chill experience and I like how much I can live in the moment not stress about the future.

Lucas Vasagam reflection:

I’m glad I came back for SMA session 3, 2026. Last year session 3, 2025, I didn’t want to come to SMA and had a difficult 1st week. I learned to embrace the challenge and come back this year. I had a great time seeing faces from last, and enjoyed many evening activities and best of all the tennis, whitewater rafting, and sheetz were great and watching the talent show. In conclusion, it was a great experience during these 2 weeks from the start of watching the World Cup final to Barn Night.

Brooks Core reflection:

Session 3 at Stone Mountain adventures camp was very eventful and fun. The adventures we went on were amazing. From overnight to soccer we traveled to so many places far away, ranging from 13 minutes to 3 and a half hours.

Nick Leone reflection:

Honestly camp is like a fever dream to me. Everyday I get to play and talk to all my friends anytime of day. Also I do activities I actually want to do without the constant fear of judgement. I feel free here. I learned that I love hiking from the 1000 step hiked and all camp day was great. Plus I got to hangout with my dad for the first time in a year. The food was alright but the pizza oven was fun. I loved camp this year it helped me deal with some things. Thank you Jud I hope you’ll let me come back next year.

Annie Minkoff reflection:

I am so happy that I came back to SMA because I made so many memories and met so many new people. This year I was in Mattawanna and I had the best time doing all the traditions that came along with that. my favorite days included white water rafting, the adventure overnight, and all camp day. I think the evening activaties were the best part of camp for me. I got to talk to everyone and reflect on our days, we went bowling, got ice cream, played french revolution, and had a dance party. I cant wait to see all the picture I took throughout the session on my disposible camera. The counslers made SMA a loving community where I could have fun and have someone to talk to if I needed. Even when we have to clean and do dishes I had fun dancing to music white doing so. I definitely recommend buying a hammock because I brought mine to almast all the activities. I became friends with so many people I never thought I would talk to. I will definitely keep in touch with everyone and I cant imagine my summer without SMA!

Counselor Kevin reflection:

My favorite activities in the camp are soccer, when campers and staff come together during power hour, it’s always fun and competitive. It’s an activity that goes beyond just playing, but to work as an organized team during the camp, all the activities being fun + learning to everyone, especially the kids.

Counselor Ray Reflection:

Session 3 has been such an incredible experience, and I feel so lucky to be here at SMA. Every session brings new campers, new experiences, and new friendships, but this session has been especially memorable because of all the amazing connections I have built with campers and fellow staff members.

One of my favorite parts of Session 3 was being a bunk captain in Little J. I loved spending time with the campers in my cabin, getting to know their personalities, and watching their friendships grow throughout the session. From morning routines to bedtime conversations, there were so many moments filled with laughter, kindness, and support. Seeing campers become more confident and comfortable each day was one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.

Another highlight was spending time in the Art Studio. I enjoyed seeing the campers' creativity shine through in so many different projects and activities. It was amazing to watch them express themselves, try new things, and take pride in what they created. Some of the best conversations and connections happened during those quieter moments in the studio.

White Water was definitely one of my favorite days of the session. The excitement, teamwork, and energy throughout the trip made it such a fun experience. Watching campers encourage one another and take on new challenges with confidence was inspiring, and it created memories that I know we will all remember for a long time.

I also loved all of the evening activities and JUD games throughout the session. These events brought so much spirit, excitement, and friendly competition to camp. Whether we were cheering for our teams, participating in games, or simply enjoying the atmosphere together, those moments helped bring everyone closer and created some of my favorite memories of the summer.

What I will remember most from Session 3 are the friendships and connections that were built along the way. The relationships with campers, the laughs shared with fellow counselors, and the sense of community throughout camp are what make SMA such a special place. I am so grateful to be part of this experience and to have spent the session surrounded by such incredible people. Session 3 has been filled with unforgettable memories, and I will always look back on it with appreciation and gratitude.

Counselor Séan McCaul reflection:

Reflecting on this session it was by far the most mentally challenging one yet I’m glad to say I still thoroughly enjoyed it and majority of the kids were great fun. Having the kids from session 2 and the more mature older kids definitely helped a lot and allowed my job as a counselor easier. Dealing with some of the kid drama at times felt like a struggle as it almost felt like nothing could be done. Whilst I take most things within my stride, this session all the drama and arguments got to me. It was a lot more stressful than I wanted it to be. Ezra was a great kid but his issues and had trouble but from seeing him wakeboard, mountain climb, and participate in all activities was lovely to see. My favorite day was the 2nd wake overnight, chilling with the lads and getting to know them, laughing and messing around was great craic. I really enjoyed the Tussey boys (apart from one…) and the little J girls. I hope next session will be a lot more chill and everyone gets along better

Alex - SMA Session 3 Reflection

Session 3 has been another amazing experience, and I feel incredibly grateful to be spending my fourth summer at SMA. Every year brings new campers, new memories, and new opportunities to grow as a counselor, and this session was no different. Getting to work with such a great group of campers and staff made every day exciting, and I am proud of the connections and memories we created together.

One of the most rewarding parts of Session 3 was being a bunk captain for Tussey once again. Working with the youngest boys, ages 12 and 13, is always a unique experience. Their energy, enthusiasm, and excitement for camp make every day an adventure. I loved helping them navigate camp life, build confidence, and create friendships that will last long after the summer ends. Watching the boys grow more independent and comfortable throughout the session was incredibly rewarding, and the laughs we shared as a cabin are memories I will always carry with me.

Another highlight of the session was spending time with WakeMasters. Some of my favorite days were out on the boat, helping campers develop their skills and seeing how proud they were when they accomplished new goals. Whether it was landing a new trick, getting up for the first time, or simply enjoying being out on the water with friends, it was awesome to be part of those moments and help create a positive experience for every camper.

The white water rafting trip was also one of the major highlights of Session 3. The excitement of being on the river, working together as a team, and taking on the rapids made for an unforgettable day. It was one of those experiences that brought campers and staff closer together while creating memories that everyone will be talking about long after camp ends.

I also loved all of the evening activities and JUD Games throughout the session. The competition, camp spirit, and energy that everyone brought to these events made them some of the most enjoyable moments of the summer. Whether competing, cheering on teammates, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, these activities helped strengthen friendships and brought the entire camp community together.

What stands out most from Session 3 is the sense of community that makes SMA so special. Between my time with Tussey, WakeMasters, white water rafting, and all of the evening activities, I was constantly reminded how lucky I am to be part of this camp. The friendships, laughter, and memories from this session are something I will always cherish, and I am grateful for another incredible summer at SMA.

Counselor Val reflection:

This session helped me grow both personally and professionally. It allowed me to become more mature, develop my leadership skills, take on greater responsibilities, and gain confidence especially when speaking English. One of the highlights of this session was taking part in the first mountain biking overnight trip of the summer wi the a small group of three campers. They were easygoing, and it was a great experience. I also really enjoyed watching the campers improve their mountain biking skills throughout the session. Many of them challenged themselves by riding the camp trails as well as the allgruippis trails,and it was rewarding to see their progress and growing confidence. My favorite moment of the session was rafting day. Being captain on the “French Boat” with Hudson, Lucas V, Lucas G, and Oliver was unforgettable. They were fantastic, full of energy, and brought so much enthusiasm throughout the day. Their positive attitude made the experience even more enjoyable and created one of my best memories this session. Being Bunk captain in furnace was also a unique experience that I will never forget. Sharing daily life with the guys in the cabin allowed me to create meaningful moments and be part of a special group dynamic. The moments we shared both during the activities and in the cabin created memories that I will carry with me long after this summer.

Counselor Charo Reflection:

Session 3 has been one of my favorite experiences so far, and I feel incredibly grateful to be spending my summer at SMA. Coming from Spain, one of my biggest goals was to improve my English, and this session has helped me gain so much confidence. At the beginning of the summer, I was sometimes nervous about speaking English all the time, but through conversations with campers and staff, I have become much more comfortable. It feels great to look back and see how much progress I have made, and I am thankful to everyone who has helped and encouraged me along the way.

One of the best parts of Session 3 has been the friendships and connections I have built. As the weeks have gone on, those friendships have become deeper and more meaningful. Whether it was spending time with campers, talking with fellow counselors, or sharing experiences around camp, I have felt part of such a welcoming and supportive community. The people here have made SMA feel like a second home.

Working with WakeMasters has also been a highlight of the session. I loved spending time on the lake, helping campers improve their skills, and watching them gain confidence as they challenged themselves. Seeing the excitement on their faces when they achieved something new was incredibly rewarding, and being part of those moments made every day on the water special.

Being a bunk captain in Mattawanna was another experience I will always remember. I loved getting to know all of the girls in my cabin and creating an environment where everyone felt comfortable, included, and valued. We shared so many laughs, stories, and unforgettable moments together. Watching the girls build friendships, support one another, and grow throughout the session was one of the most rewarding aspects of camp life.

This session has also helped me grow personally. Living and working in another country, communicating in a different language, and taking on new responsibilities have all made me more confident in myself. I have learned so much about leadership, friendship, and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

What I will remember most about Session 3 are the connections I made with people. The friendships, the laughter, the support, and the memories created together are what make SMA such a special place. I feel so lucky to be here, and I am excited to continue making more memories as the summer goes on.

Counselor Noelle Plasse reflection:

This session flew by! I can’t believe it’s already over. A highlight was definitely the adventure overnight. Although it was a bit stressful navigating the new area and we took a wrong turn, we found what we were looking for! We ate snacks on the balancing rock and we shortly after found the swimming hole we were looking for! It was so fun to boulder and jump into the water, the next day I also got to manage a repel setup. On the last day of activities, I had so much fun mountain biking, and hit my first drop! I loved encouraging people who are just trying mountain biking for the first time and seeing more girls out biking! Phoebe and Eila had an epic crash, I’m glad they’re ok. It was also fun bringing Séan and Seth climbing at sharks tooth. I also loved white water rafting, my raft had so much fun and did great. Driving home and seeing a beautiful orange full moon & listening to music with Tucci, Lily, and Alana was a special memory that I won’t forget. can’t believe the summer is almost over!

Counselor Tanmay Reflection:

3rd session was pretty much ups and downs. Many mistaken, lots of things to learn. Good day with tasty food. Good rafting days. Had a good drive with Kevin.

Counselor William Franklin reflection:

SMA session 3 was my first full session and also the first session I understood the camp. Hike I didn’t get to go out in the boat again, I’ve found the past 2 weeks to be a great with all the activities I did get to do. Managing Ezra on the overnight was an experience, especially with him on his best behavior and it made me reflect on why he was so much worse at camp. Getting to know the kids has been really great this session. I’m sad to be going home as I was feeling like I was starting to belong and not like a last second addition, so going home kind of sucks. I’ve really appreciated my time here and if life allows, I can definitely see myself coming back if possible.

Counselor Cillian Reflection:

Session 3 was very memorable and it was great fun! I really enjoyed meeting all the new campers I haven’t met along with seeing returning campers. Some of my favorite activities involved fishing, I got to learn more about fishing, and it was great. Another great moment was the Sheetz dinner stop after white water rafting!

Counselor Ffion Reflection:

Session 3 has been such a special session, and I can't believe how quickly it has gone by! One of the things I have loved most has been getting to know a whole new group of campers and building so many meaningful friendships and connections along the way. Watching campers grow more confident, make new friends, and create memories together has been incredibly rewarding, and I feel very lucky to have been part of their experience.

One of my favorite highlights this session was definitely White Water. It was such a fun day filled with excitement, teamwork, and plenty of laughs. There is nothing better than seeing campers step outside of their comfort zones, cheer each other on, and leave the day with huge smiles on their faces. The energy on the river was amazing, and it was a memory I know I will look back on for a long time.

I also loved spending time with WakeMasters this session. Being out on the lake is always one of the best parts of camp, and it was awesome watching campers challenge themselves and celebrate their successes on the water. Whether it was learning a new skill or simply enjoying time with friends, every day on the boat brought something different and exciting.

Another highlight for me was spending time in the Art Studio. I loved seeing the creativity of the campers and all the different projects they worked on throughout the session. It was always a fun opportunity to slow things down, be creative, and connect with campers in a different way.

Being a bunk captain in Little J was one of the most rewarding parts of Session 3. I loved getting to know the girls in my cabin, sharing stories, laughing together, and creating a supportive environment where everyone felt included. Watching friendships grow within the cabin and seeing the girls become more confident each day was incredibly special. The connections we built together are something I will always remember.

My favorite part of Session 3 has been the relationships that were formed throughout camp. From the friendships with campers to the connections with fellow staff members, every day was filled with moments that reminded me why SMA is such a special place. I am so grateful for all the memories, laughs, and experiences from this session, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the summer brings