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.