Barton is my daughter’s home away from home. Her summer would not be complete without it.

Together with staff who know what making it to the top of a mountain can do for the soul, campers "Dream Big" as they confront fears, heights, waves, self doubts and rainstorms, all while managing diabetes. "If [you] can tackle a vertical granite wall, [you] can do anything." (Morgan age 16, NY)  Embark upon high adventure rock climbing, rage white water rapids, challenge your comfort zone while spelunking in underground caves, or master sailing. During these 12-day adventures, led by certified guides and diabetes professionals, these programs provide a voyage of self-discovery and adventure, with the opportunity to conquer more than just mountains, caves, or the ocean. Daring teenagers work as a team as they bushwhack their way to both group and personal success. Campers cannot help but make lifelong friends as they reflect on their accomplishments. Barton Adventure Programs are more than just a memorable experience!

Adventure I -  Up, Down & All Around: A Hiking, Spelunking/Caving & Kayaking Adventure
Sun, July 6 - Thurs, July 17, 2008
Co-ed (Ages 13-17) - Trip is limited to ten campers.

Challenge yourself and learn new skills as we travel on land, on water, and in caves.  The Barton Center and Holyoke Rows are teaming up to provide campers with an exciting opportunity to gain new perspectives on the world and your fellow travelers.  While camping and hiking in the Pioneer Valley, we'll explore rope travel, rappelling, land navigation and wilderness rescue skills.  As we move west into New York, we'll challenge our comfort zone and acquire a unique perspective of our environment while spelunking in underground caves.  After developing and refining our paddling and boat rescure skills, we'll learn firsthand the attributes of the sea kayak and then embark down the Connecticut River on a multiple day trip.  Meeting the challenges and managing the risks that come with outdoor adventures are part of the experience.  We will learn about ourselves, create new friendships, and have fun along the way.
 

Adventure II - "Seas" the Day: A Sailing and City Adventure
Sun, Aug 3 - Thurs, Aug 14, 2008
Co-ed (Ages 13-17) - Trip is limited to twelve campers.

Put your physical and mental strength to the test in this intense and challenging high seas adventure!  The Barton Center and Courageous Sailing Center have teamed up to offer campers the opportunity of a lifetime as they learn to sail against the scenic backdrop of Boston and the Boston Harbor Islands National Park.  Adventure campers will experience the exhilaration of capturing the wind in their sails, learn to navigate Boston's historic waters, and master the leadership and teamwork skills necessary to crew a 20-foot sailboat.  After a long day on the water, campers will have the opportunity to enjoy some of Boston's attractions.  The program will include an overnight sail to the islands followed by a campout under the stars, complete with campfire, fireside barbecue, and guitar accompaniment for singing the night away.  By the end of this challenging program, campers will have mastered their fears and gained the courage to steer their very own boat through the ocean blue!