Director Jud's Blog

A New Way Up: Enhancing the Camper Experience at SMA

Posted by Jud Millar

Wed, Apr 1, 2026

At Stone Mountain Adventures, we are always looking for thoughtful ways to improve the camper experience while staying true to the spirit of adventure that defines our community.

Over the past several years, one piece of feedback has consistently surfaced—especially from campers heading up to the girls cabins after a long day of activity: “That hill is no joke.”

After careful planning, consultation, and a bit of creative problem-solving, we’re excited to share that SMA will be installing a small-scale chairlift system to service the hillside leading to the girls cabins for the upcoming summer.

Why a Chairlift?

While the uphill hike has long been part of daily life at camp, we’ve been exploring ways to:

  • Improve accessibility for all campers
  • Reduce end-of-day fatigue
  • Increase efficiency during transitions between activities
  • Provide a unique (and fun) experience that fits naturally into our mountain environment

As one returning camper shared last summer,

“By the time we got to the top, I felt like I had already done my workout for the day.”

And a parent noted in a post-summer survey,

“She loved everything about camp… except maybe that final climb at night.”

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Topics: April 1st

SMA Teen Camp: Silent Retreat Mode During the Power Hour of Freedom

Posted by Jud Millar

Mon, Apr 1, 2024

Special Announcement: Stone Mountain Adventures Will Go Into Silent Retreat Mode During The Power Hour of Freedom in 2024!

Dear Stone Mountain Adventures Families,

I hope this message finds you well and filled with anticipation for the upcoming summer at our beloved camp. As we gear up for another season of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories, on the 1st day of April I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you all.

Starting this summer of 2024, Stone Mountain Adventures will be introducing a unique addition to our daily schedule: Silent Retreat Mode during the Power Hour of Freedom! This decision comes from our commitment to providing campers with diverse experiences that foster personal growth and reflection.

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Topics: April 1st

SMA Teen Camp Announces Policy Change Regarding "Cabin Coffee"

Posted by Jud Millar

Sat, Apr 1, 2023

 

All of us at Stone Mountain Adventures (SMA) are excited to announce that for the SMA Summer of 2023we will add a new unground piping system to to deliver steaming hot coffee from The Rhino Dining Room to each cabin.  Each cabin will feature a Caffeine Faucet and campers will each be given a personal mug that they will store in each cabin.  For campers who want more variety the Rhino Dining Room will have a Caffeine Café offering campers and staff specialty coffee drinks including:

  • Espresso
  • Americano
  • Long Black
  • Cappuccino
  • Flat White
  • Macchiato
  • Latte
  • Mocha
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Topics: April 1st

About Director Jud's Blog

This blog will give you the "411" about everything that is Stone Mountain Adventures Teen Summer Camp!  Everything from "Summer Updates" to useful family and camp resources.  Check it out! 

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