Outdoor education at Lanakila began in the 1920s with the “Wannaknowit Club.” Our beautiful natural environment remains remarkably untouched, and we explore the lakes, forests, meadows, brooks, and swamps around camp. We learn about birds, bugs, bats, flowers, trees, and animals, play games of Camouflage, make ice cream and occasionally visit the nearby Montshire Science Museum. Whether we are building a dam in the brook, predicting the weather, catching turtles, or climbing trees, we balance curiosity with a healthy dose of fun.

Campcraft
Campcraft provides skills for outdoor living and successful tripping. From how to build a fire (even in the rain) to setting up a tent, tying knots, using an axe and orienteering, boys can learn it all. Campers also help build towers (25’ high last summer), bridges and rafts using lashing skills. And if all that hard work makes you hungry, we also teach cooking, from mac and cheese to stove-top brownies.

Biking
Campers can cruise around beautiful Lake Morey, ride nearby single track trails,  or go on an overnight bike trip. For beginners, we teach mountain biking basics, and for those who want to gain proficiency in bike maintenance, there are opportunities to learn skills like tube repair and brake and gear adjustment.

Canoe Trips
At Lanakila, some of the more incredible experiences occur off camp property. Canoe trips range from a day on the Connecticut River to five days on the Adirondack Lakes of New York, and campers of all ages hone their paddling and camping skills in the wilderness. Trips instill a love of the outdoors, a spirit of adventure and a deep self-confidence that comes from gaining competence in a new environment.

Hiking Trips
On hiking trips, campers explore the wilderness of New England. We hike local trails as well as the White Mountains of NH, the Green Mountains of VT and even the Adirondack High Peaks in NY. Trips ranging from one to five days give both young and old a chance to push themselves in so they can see not only the incredible beauty of the natural world, but also experience the joy of a group effort successful accomplished.