Creativity, Connection & Backpacking Magic

During Sessions 2, 3, and 4, campers have the unique opportunity to leave Tawonga’s property and venture into the majestic wilderness of Yosemite National Park and Stanislaus National Forest. These one- or two-night trips are a hallmark of the Tawonga experience — blending adventure, community, skill-building, and deep appreciation for the natural world.

This session, campers headed out to breathtaking locations, including Carlon Falls, Kibbie Lake, Tamarack Creek, Early Intake, Powell Lake, May Lake, Camp Lake, and Bear Lake. Each destination offered something spectacular: sparkling swimming holes, ancient trees, granite ridgelines, and skies so clear you could count every star.

Trips kick off with meeting the bunk’s wilderness leader at Camp and taking a scenic drive to the trailhead, followed by a hike toward the campsite. Once there, bunks settle in with lunch, time to swim or explore, and plenty of games and bonding activities. As the sun dips below the trees, campers gather to cook dinner on backpacking stoves and share stories before curling up in sleeping bags — often choosing to sleep directly under the stars.

At Bear Lake, B-10 campers got to swim out to a rock island — a highlight of their session. Their counselor, Ari G., reflected on the magic of that shared moment:

“There was a great swimming lake with a rock island we got to swim out to. It was an incredible experience we shared together.”

When asked about her favorite trip of the session, Wilderness Leader, Shosh B., shared:

“Powell Lake with G-10A! It ended up snowing a bit, which was so cool. It was a lot of the campers’ first backpacking trip. Our hike made the campers feel strong, empowered, and beautiful. I love backpacking, and I love making campers love it too!”

It’s these little moments — a hike punctuated by beetle discoveries, the joy of filtering water for the first time, the way laughter sounds echoing through the pines — that leave a lasting imprint.

Wilderness Leader, Alana C., has led countless trips into the backcountry and sees the impact firsthand:

“My favorite part of these trips is getting to take kids into the backcountry and teach them how to enjoy it responsibly.”

Campers learn principles of “Leave No Trace,” how to respect wildlife, and how to coexist with nature. They return with tired feet, messy hair, full hearts — and a new sense of confidence and independence.

For many, backpacking is a moment of discovery: the first time they carry all their gear on their back, sleep under the stars without city lights, or hike farther than they thought they could. It’s where resilience is built and friendships are cemented over granola bars and awe-inspiring vistas. 

Camper Shiley W. from G-2B said her favorite moment of car camping was:

“Sleeping under the stars with my friends. We got to see a meteor shower!!”

As Session 4 campers return from their trips — sun-kissed and smiling — they bring stories, inside jokes, and memories that stretch far beyond the trail. Back at Camp, they’re greeted like heroes by fellow campers and staffers and launch right back into the rhythm of floats and song sessions — a little dustier, a little stronger, and a lot more connected to the earth beneath their feet.