At Camp Explore at the Outdoor Adventure Center, our main rule is RESPECT.

We believe that everybody should enjoy our camp equally and feel safe, secure and accepted regardless of color, race, gender, popularity, athletic ability, intelligence, religion and nationality.

• I will RESPECT NATURE: I will walk on trails, enjoy the surroundings but not take souvenirs, dispose of garbage properly, leave wildlife alone and clean up when I leave. Traveling through wilderness, humans are the visitors. We are passing through the homes and habitat of wild animals, and our behavior should be much like what is expected when visiting another human's home.
• I will RESPECT OTHERS: I will use kind words, listen, be fair, and keep my hands and feet to myself. I will respect their property.
• I will RESPECT the FACILITIES: I will keep the grounds clean, and respect equipment, waterfront, buildings and restrooms. If something is broken, I will tell a counselor.
• I will RESPECT MYSELF: I will think and act in a positive way, make safe decisions, drink plenty of water, and wear sunscreen and bug spray. I will respect my belongings.

Core values

Curiosity: We seek to learn more about the world around us. We approach every day with an open mind and open eyes so we are always ready for new opportunities.

Kindness: We recognize that one kind act can create another. We are intentional in creating a positive community, so all feel welcome in this space.

Positive mental attitude: We approach each camp day with a positive attitude, ready for new challenges and adventures. We use our PMA to help uplift those around us, building a positive community for all.

Personal growth: We embrace the challenges that pull us from our comfort zones and try again even when we don’t initially succeed. By stepping into unfamiliar activities and new groups of people, we know we can expand our horizons and achieve our goals.

Stewardship: We seek to be responsible stewards of Michigan’s natural resources. Through service learning and projects, we can protect and strengthen our communities.

Camp goals and outcomes

The Outdoor Adventure Center’s mission is to connect visitors to Michigan’s natural resources. At Camp Explore, we put that mission into action. Campers will gain outdoor skills, discover new friendships and develop as leaders, all against the backdrop of our beautiful Michigan state parks. Our camp values – kindness, curiosity, stewardship, positive mental attitude and personal growth – direct all that we do. Through a Camp Explore experience, campers will:

• Practice outdoor skills like archery, fishing and bike riding, which will help them become lifelong users of the outdoors.
• Meet peers and develop communication skills through traditional and informal teambuilding exercises.
• Experience the beauty of the Detroit Riverfront and learn stewardship ethics so they can actively care for their river and surrounding areas.
• Grow in resiliency, through time in the outdoors and exposure to age-appropriate challenges.

Above all, Camp Explore makes space for every kid and staff member, so they can come to know the benefits of time in the outdoors.