Director Jud's Blog

We know it’s not easy saying goodbye for two whole weeks (and for some it's 4 weeks!)—especially if this is your camper’s first adventure away from home. But trust us when we say: they’re thriving here at Stone Mountain Adventures in all the best ways.

Each morning kicks off with a signature SMA wake-up—the joyful (and slightly ridiculous) blast of “The Birdie Song” echoing across camp. It’s not just our alarm—it’s our invitation to start the day with laughter, movement, and camp magic.

After a teeth-brushing sprint and a hearty breakfast in the Rhino Dining Hall, campers gather with their small-group Crew. These Crews are more than chore teams—they’re micro-communities where inside jokes are born, trust is built, and the day’s energy begins to hum. Our short 15-minute Crew sessions help kids take ownership of camp life while building friendships that last far beyond the session.

The first few mornings are especially fun, packed with games that spark connection. Today’s standout? A high-energy classic called Pole Barn—full of movement, chaos, and big belly laughs. We also snapped photos of each Crew so you can see those early smiles and bonds beginning to form.

And now, let’s talk weather: yes, we’ve got a heat wave on the horizon, but we’re way ahead of it. We’re going all-in on water adventures—whether it’s wakeboarding on Raystown Lake, swimming at Greenwood Furnace, or paddling at Whipple Dam. Our goal? Keep campers cool, safe, and having a blast. That means hydration stations, shady breaks, and sunscreen galore.

So breathe easy, SMA families and enjoy the crew photos from this morning. Your campers are playing hard, laughing often, and discovering their strengths every day. We’re so proud of the energy, kindness, and curiosity they’re bringing to the SMA community.

Here they are…