Summer Camp

Climb. Connect. Discover.

Ascent Summer Camp is more than just a week of climbing—it’s an unforgettable experience built on movement, adventure, and community. Designed for youth ages 12–17, our camp offers an engaging blend of rock climbing instruction, team-building games, creative challenges, and outdoor education.

Each week features a dynamic schedule filled with climbing sessions, themed activities, skill-building workshops, and plenty of time for connection and fun. Whether your camper is brand new to climbing or already scaling V5s, our experienced staff creates an inclusive, supportive environment for growth and exploration.

Located at Ascent Climbing Gym in New Haven, CT, the camp runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with new themes and challenges each week. Space is limited—register today and give your child a summer they’ll never forget!

Indoor Climbing Adventures

Campers will spend much of their week exploring the walls of Ascent Climbing Gym—learning technique, building strength, and growing confidence through bouldering-focused sessions. We emphasize:

  • Progressive Climbing Instruction: From basic footwork and route reading to more advanced skills like dynamic movement and projecting.

  • Mini Challenges & Games: Fun and friendly competitions, climbing-based games, and partner activities to build trust and teamwork.

  • Creative Learning Blocks: Skills like knot tying, route setting basics, and climbing-themed problem-solving keep things fresh and hands-on.

What to Expect

At Ascent Summer Camp, each day is crafted to challenge, inspire, and connect. Campers can expect a full week of structured activities led by experienced climbing instructors and youth program staff who prioritize safety, inclusion, and fun.

Camp Culture & Community

Beyond climbing, Ascent Summer Camp is a place where friendships form, creativity is encouraged, and every camper feels like part of a team. Daily rituals like morning check-ins, end-of-day reflections, and team awards create a strong, positive group culture. We balance physical activity with creative downtime, offering activities like:

  • Arts & crafts with a climbing twist

  • Camp-wide scavenger hunts

  • Themed costume or game days

By the end of the week, campers leave not only as better climbers—but as more confident, capable, and connected young people.

Would you like a visual schedule or a breakdown by day added as a follow-up?

Outdoor Climbing Experience

Weather permitting, campers will venture outdoors for a full day of climbing at a local crag. This is a highlight of the week and gives campers the chance to:

  • Experience Real Rock: Learn how to climb top rope routes in a natural setting with proper guidance and gear.

  • Practice Leave No Trace Ethics: We teach outdoor responsibility, respect for nature, and how to recreate sustainably.

  • Enjoy a Scenic Day in Nature: Hikes, crag-side games, journaling prompts, and a picnic lunch round out the day.

All outdoor trips are staffed at a high ratio for safety and led by certified instructors who manage anchors, belaying, and site logistics.

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