Archery was one of the activities for campers at the Friends of Mountwood Park Adventure Camp in July. Registration for the 2025 camp opens in May. (Photo provided)
PARKERSBURG – The Friends of Mountwood Park hosted their annual adventure camp July 22-26.
On Monday, the youth began the day by building a squirrel feeder under the guidance of Bob Zellny. Curtis Woodworking in Pennsboro helped cut the wood for this project. Peggy Squires showed the participants how to make a survival bracelet out of paracord and hardware.
On Tuesday, Tyler County Search and Rescue demonstrated the abilities of dogs in searching for missing people. Participants learned that if they are lost, they should stay there until someone finds them, as it is more difficult to do so if they are wandering around.
Campers were given a compass and learned the basic skills to use it. They were also given a whistle and learned that they should always carry one when they go out into the woods or kayaking because they can be found more easily if they blow the whistle.
The campers were given fishing rods and tackle boxes and the rest of the morning was dedicated to fishing.
Amphibians and reptiles were a theme for campers at Adventure Camp, sponsored by the Friends of Mountwood. (Photo provided)
On Wednesday, Adam Weaver and Daniel Jonas of the Appalachian Herpetological Society discussed reptiles and amphibians.
On Thursday, Dina Braniff introduced the world of insects and spiders, talking about the benefits of creatures that people don’t normally want around, and provided campers with kits to explore this other world.
The campers made tie-dye shirts and ended the day fishing.
On Friday, campers participated in an archery competition offered by the Mountain State Sportsmen’s Association. The girls won the competition.
Afterwards, the boys continued fishing and set the record for the largest fish caught. The camp participants also visited the Mountwood Museum.
Rescue dogs pose with campers at the Friends of Mountwood Park Adventure Camp in July. (Photo provided)
Friday concluded with a picnic lunch provided by Mountwood Park Concessions and Allen and Diane Conrad.
Peggy Squires, president of the Friends of Mountwood Park, organized the adventure camp. Friends of Mountwood Park and other volunteers helped work with the campers.
Applications for Adventure Camp 2025 will be available from May on the Friends of Mountwood Park Facebook page, at the Mountwood Park office and at the Mountwood Museum.
