Business Details
33 Years
experience
Outdoor Adventure Camps & Education Programs
Calleva has been a leader in outdoor adventure and education for nearly three decades, evolving from a small summer camp into a nationally recognized organization. Our mission centers on connecting people with nature through programs that foster personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. With expertise in kayaking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and farm-based education, our team includes Olympic athletes, seasoned educators, and wilderness professionals. We serve diverse age groups through summer camps, river school classes, and customized group experiences across Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.Our partnerships with environmental organizations reflect our commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Safety remains our top priority, supported by ACA accreditation and rigorous staff training. From beginner paddlers to advanced adventurers, we create transformative experiences that challenge comfort zones while emphasizing environmental stewardship.
Services
Summer Camps
Kayaking Lessons
Horseback Riding
Rock Climbing
Outdoor Education
Farm Programs
Whitewater Rafting
Mountain Biking
Sailing Courses
Challenge Courses
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1993 with 30 years of outdoor education expertise
- Offers 15+ adventure activities including kayaking, rock climbing, and horseback riding
- Expert instructors include Olympic kayakers and certified wilderness professionals
- Partners with 10+ organizations for environmental and community programs
- Seasonal and year-round programs for ages 4-16 and adult adventurers
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association (ACA)
What people say
Life-changing experiences
Expert instructors
Well-structured programs
Nature immersion
Skill development
Services
Summer Camps
Calleva's summer camps provide immersive outdoor experiences for children aged 4-16. Programs include adventure sports, nature exploration, and leadership training. Each week focuses on specific activities like kayaking, rock climbing, or farm immersion, with options for day camps and overnight adventures.
Kayaking Lessons
River School offers kayaking instruction from beginner to advanced levels. Classes cover whitewater techniques, safety protocols, and environmental awareness. Specialized programs include Mexico expeditions and competitive training for aspiring athletes.
Horseback Riding
Farm-based riding programs teach horsemanship skills to all experience levels. Lessons focus on safety, animal care, and trail riding. The CHAPS program combines riding with environmental education and team-building activities.
Outdoor Education
School partnerships deliver hands-on environmental education through farm work, river studies, and wilderness exploration. Curriculum-aligned programs emphasize sustainability, ecology, and personal development in natural settings.
Challenge Courses
High and low ropes courses develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Programs cater to schools, corporations, and youth groups through customized obstacle courses and collaborative problem-solving activities.
People
Drew Thompson
Director of Instructors
Drew leads instructor development with 2 years of experience, focusing on staff training and West Virginia program expansion. He combines outdoor education expertise with a passion for youth development through nature-based activities.
George Markoff
Instructor
A 4-year staff member and lifelong camper, George specializes in wilderness skills and adventure programming. He shares expertise in backcountry navigation and environmental stewardship with participants.
Remy Anderson
Cubs Program Head
With 9 years of experience, Remy specializes in early childhood outdoor education. She creates nature-based learning experiences for 4-5 year olds, fostering curiosity and environmental connections.
Kublai Kolb
Whitewater Instructor
A former camper turned instructor, Kublai teaches advanced kayaking techniques. He focuses on surf skills and creek boating, sharing his passion for pushing personal limits in safe environments.
Tina Johnson
Explorers Program Lead
With 8 years of experience, Tina specializes in adventure programming for 6-8 year olds. She develops curriculum that balances skill development with fun, emphasizing safety and environmental awareness.
Questions
What age groups do Calleva programs serve?
Calleva offers programs for children aged 4-16, with specialized options for teens and adult adventure trips.
Are safety certifications included in outdoor programs?
All programs follow ACA safety standards with certified instructors trained in wilderness first aid and activity-specific protocols.
What adventure activities are available?
We offer kayaking, rock climbing, horseback riding, sailing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and farm-based education programs.
Do you provide equipment for water sports?
Calleva River Store offers gear rentals including kayaks, paddles, and safety equipment for all water-based programs.
Are scholarships available for summer camps?
Yes, Calleva offers financial aid and scholarships to ensure accessibility for all participants seeking outdoor education experiences.
Can groups book customized outdoor programs?
We provide tailored group experiences for schools, corporations, and organizations focusing on team-building and outdoor education goals.
Reviews (4)
Rich Hardy
Jun 23, 2021
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This place is amazing! Friendly staff, fun, creative activities (for all ages), and if you want some ultimate summer vibes, pizza nights on the farm is the ticket
Jerry Schlossnagle
Jan 25, 2021
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I've lived in nearby Frederick for over 7 years and had no idea this place was here. I came across it as the endpoint for Ride Allegany (in support of Operation Second Chance). This place is just way cool, and the pizza at the Farm Cafe was fantastic. Very peaceful. We'll be back for sure. I also want to check out the Markoff's Haunted Forest, too.
Christopher Niebylski
Nov 22, 2020
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The Perilous Pizza setup is great - a good alternative for those who don't want to do the Haunted Tour. Tables are spaced out all over the field near the zip line. Order at the kitchen and they bring food out to your table. About half a dozen pizza choices, salad, and bread sticks on the menu. Pizza prices are really high (~$25 for 6 slices), but you don't pay to get in. Zipline rides are $15. Decent beer and wine selection. Mini campfires at each table for making s'mores. Big bonfire in the evenings.
Ted H.
Sep 19, 2017
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I am a huge fan of Calleva. I have been involved in many school outdoor trips, and this organization is simply the best. They provide several talented leaders who make meaningful connections with the kids and push them to get out of their comfort zones. The site is constantly improving their offerings. Can't wait to go back next year.