Final Stretch, Full Speed
It’s hard to believe we’ve already made it to Thursday—the final full day of our 2-Week Camp session. The last trips rolled back into camp yesterday, and now the whole crew is back together to soak up every last moment. If you spot a camper in a cape this morning, your eyes weren’t playing tricks on you. More on that tomorrow…
Yesterday included a special visit from Steve Longenecker, who brought out some of his wildlife friends for one of his legendary animal programs. Steve has been sharing his deep knowledge of the natural world with campers for decades, and his presentations are always a highlight. This was his third time at camp this summer, and just like before, the boys were totally locked in—learning about each animal, asking great questions, and getting a closer look at creatures they might never see up close anywhere else.
Down on the Green River, the fly fishermen made the most of the weather and cool water. There’s nothing quite like that quiet moment before a strike—or the look on a boy’s face when he finally lands a trout. The covered bridge area continues to be a special place to learn and enjoy.
The final round of trips brought boys to some of the most iconic wild places in our region:
- Rock Climbing: A 2-day trip to Looking Glass, a one-day adventure at Gilbert’s Rock, and climbing Big Rock in South Carolina.
- Backpacking: A 3-day trek through the Shining Rock Wilderness, a 2-day hike to Flat Laurel, and several day hikes here at camp.
- Mountain Biking: A new to FCC, 2-day ride through Croft State Park, trail riding in DuPont, and camp loop rides.
- Paddling: An advanced whitewater trip on the Tuckaseegee River (8 boys in 2-man canoes-each earned their yaklet on this trip!), a canoe trip across Lake Fontana, and the FB0 outing for boys who completed Canoe Prep.
The younger half of camp—Sorrel and Tsuga Lines—headed out on their overnights just before dinner, giving each cabin the chance to enjoy a special meal out at the shelters together. Meanwhile, back at camp, Robinia and Betula stayed behind for some evening fun. Robinia squared off in Dodgeball inside the Thunderdungeon, taking on both their cabins and the counselors. Betula played a classic favorite—TacoCat—which always brings out big laughs and fast moves.
With the final day of 2-Week Camp just ahead, we’re making the most of every hour. It’s been a full stretch! Boys have been on the trail, in the water, and here at camp, the energy is still strong. Tomorrow we’ll have time to look back, but for now, we’re focused on enjoying one more great day together.