Written by Araceli Arredondo, Summer Facilitator
Sunday: Day 1
At 11AM sharp, campers started arriving at the office, all of them sporting smiles and a buzz of eagerness to start the Rock Climbing trip. One by one they filed into the van, picking seats that they would sit in for the remainder of the trip. Personal gear was secured in the trailer, and the van took off to begin the adventure. During the ride, chatter and laughter filled the space as those who were already acquainted began introducing their friends to others they knew. Upon arrival at the Pednernales Falls State Park, campers began setting up their tents and unpacking their personal gear, turning sleeping quarters into a temporary home. Douglas and Ayden helped cook for the group. After eating, and getting to know one another, campers showered before retiring for the night. The night ended with everyone excited for the adventures to come.
Monday: Day 2
The day started with enthusiasm in the air as the group fueled up on an array of grab-and-go breakfast items. Water bottles were filled with anticipation of a hot day before all piled into the van for the journey awaiting at Reimer’s Ranch. Arriving at the Ranch, climbing gear was distributed, lunch sandwiches were made, and sunscreen was tediously applied like a second skin.
The hike to Zoe’s wall was short, but the anticipation and thrill in the air made it stretch on for longer. Once at the wall, experienced climber Cruz efficiently climbed to set up top rope on three different routes. These routes became the first steps for beginner climbers who were eager to start their journeys.
Meanwhile, experienced climber Vinny set out to complete her first lead climb. After going through a practice lead, she felt stronger in her abilities to conquer a full lead later in the week.
Hours later, wholly satisfied and accomplished with their climbs, the group made the trip back to Pedernales State Park to swim in the nearby river. However, the arrival back proved a challenge not all were prepared for. Rain had stormed through the camp, leaving most of the group’s tents flooded. Working efficiently, each tent was put in a dry, sunny area while tarps and rain flies were hung across clothing lines. Settling in a circle, everyone began unwinding as dinner was served, sharing laughs and stories from the day. With the conclusion of clean up and showers–all tents, sleeping necessities, and personal gear finally dry–everyone settled for the night.
Tuesday: Day 3
Campers awoke bright and early, all more than eager for another day of climbing. After filling up on grab-and-go breakfast, the van was loaded for another trip to Reimers Ranch where the wall Dead Cats awaited. With the conclusion of gear distribution and sandwich making, everyone set off down Climber’s Canyon. However, the group found
they needed to make a slight detour on their hiking route due to the surprise visit of a snake blocking their path. All observed the beautiful creature from a respective distance before continuing their hike as normal.
Chase and Cruz set up the climbing routes and the climbing began. Around midday, feeling a burst of confidence and eagerness to achieve new heights, Briana geared up to lead climb for the first time. Climbing more than halfway up the route, Briana eventually came down after being shaken by her first lead fall (standby; this journey is not yet over).
As the group began taking their last climbs on the routs, Cruz attempted a knee bar bouldering project with the support of Abigail, Aliyah, and Douglas as spotters. He made it to the point he set as a goal, feeling proud of himself and thankful for the support.
With a full, hard day of climbing, the group enjoyed a brief nap in the van on the way back to their camp site at Pedernales.
That night after dinner, a bright fire was lit where the group circled around to debrief and make smores. The gooey marshmallow-chocolate-gramcracker combo was just the treat they needed after a long day.
Completing showers and sharing final thoughts of the day, everyone turned in for the night with the promise of an exciting day ahead.
Wednesday: Day 4
Awaking later, appreciating a slow morning after two full days of climbing, campers enjoyed a full breakfast of potato, egg, and sausage tacos with a side of bacon while lounging around camp for some much needed rest. With much enthusiasm, the group set out for a day of swimming at Krause Springs.
First enjoying hotdogs and chips, then changing into proper swimming attire, campers made the short hike down to the natural spring where they spent the rest of the afternoon swimming, swinging from the rope swing, and having fun in each other’s company.
Cruz, Chase, and volunteer Will all found staffs of wisdom sticks to which they all momentarily became wizards of a far land. Mando met a group of deaf individuals whom he communicated with. Mando, Abigail and Alliyah all swung from the rope swing, feeling a thrill of excitement and accomplishment as they did so.
Returning to camp, all tired from the day, a quick debrief circle was made before showers were taken and spaghetti was served. That night was filled with restful sleep as the day’s activities tired everyone to the point of happy exhaustion.
Thursday: Day 5
Once again rising early with the usual grab-and-go breakfast, the group retrieved their climbing gear and sandwiches before loading the van, offering for a quicker, more efficient start at Reimers. Hiking towards Serpents Wall, the group settled for their final day of climbing.
Though slightly shaken by her fall two days ago, Briana had a drive to officially complete a lead climb. Properly gearing up, she took to the wall with the support of all her friends and fellow campers. Taking her time, placing each limb with precision, she made it to the top with a beautiful rewarding view at completing her first lead climb.
Feeling encouraged at her friend’s accomplishment, Vinny too suited up for a lead climb. She made it to the second bolt, securely clipping herself in, before being stumped by the crux.
On the neighboring wall, Cruz and Chase were tackling a 5.10d. Both making it to the top on different paths, the rewarding feeling they felt was shared.
Back at camp we circled for a final debrief. Mando posed the question “Before the camp began you had expectations. How have those expectations been met or exceeded?” Taking a moment of silence, everyone thought long and hard about their answer to the question. As the conversation began, campers shared their initial thoughts about coming into the camp and how they feel now on the final day. Thoughts of new friendships, new achievements, and final memories were shared. When Cruz’s turn came, he shared that this was his final camp with Youth Odyssey before he leaves to tackle the real world. Speaking to his fellow Youth Leaders–Chase, Brianna, Vinny, Mando–he recalls his first meeting with them and how he was uncertain about them. Now, having watched them grow into wonderful leaders and individuals, he charges them with being the leaders of tomorrow that Youth Odyssey needs.
The night ended with a few heavy hearts and tears at the farewell. Memories made, friendships solidified, better prepared for tomorrow.
Friday: Day 6
Campers had an early morning start, and quickly began taking down camp in the light rain, eager to go home and see their families. After a final walk through the camp, keenly searching for leftover trash or equipment, everyone loaded the van for their final drive together. Making a quick stop at a convenience store for a bathroom break, campers each bought themselves their desired items before once again loading the van for the remaining 3 hour drive. The immediate hour that followed consisted of chatter, laughter, and singalongs to their favorite songs on the radio.
Upon arriving at the office, the trailer slowly became vacant as each camper retrieved their personal belongings. Sharing “goodbyes” and “see you laters,” the group went their own ways, taking with them stories and memories to cherish forever.
Special Thanks to HEB, Helping Here, for sponsoring this amazing camp. To help sponsor our next adventure, check out our website or if you want to learn more about our camps click here!
