SPECIALTY CAMPS

These groups are co-ed, and generally smaller than traditional units. Camper age varies. Program experience is a 50-50 split of engaging with the specialty camp's focus and traditional camp activities. Only Fishing and Marine Biology have overnight trips as part of the program, and all other specialty groups will spend every night of their session at Orkila.

HORSEMASTERS

Entering grades 6-9. If you’ve ever galloped a horse across upper camp, or ridden a horse all the way down to the beach for a swim in the Puget Sound, then you’ve probably done the Horsemaster program! Our Horsemaster campers focus on individual riding skills in a group lesson setting. Group lessons are based on the skill level of each camper. They also learn basic horse care such as grooming, feeding, and tack care.

HORSEMASTER LEADERSHIP

Entering grades 9-11.The Horsemaster Leadership program is for campers of all skill levels who are interested in honing their horsemanship skills while also developing their leadership skills. Opportunities to develop these skills include workshops, service projects and active leadership tasks with younger campers. Horsemanship skills are developed through daily riding lessons and workshops in relation to horse care, tack maintenance, and barn management. 

HIGH ALTITUDE LEADERSHIP

Entering grades 7-9. High Altitude Leadership campers will have an opportunity to try almost every ropes element at camp. Not only the familiar Giant Swing and Zip Line, but also the Giant's Ladder and the Circuit. They will go deeper with the challenge course by learning basic knot-tying, belaying, and facilitation with our well-trained Adventure Team staff. Another big part of HAL is building teamwork and communication skills.

SKATEBOARDING

Entering grades 7-9. This program is suitable for skaters of all levels of experience. Grab your helmet and pads! Dropping in, pulling kick-flips, or doing ollies are all things campers can try with us at Skate camp, and we also like to just roll around. We spend half of the day at the Orcas Island Skate Park, just down the road from camp. Experienced counselors offer coaching and support as we practice new moves and tricks.

MARINE BIOLOGY

Entering grades 6-8. The Marine Biology campers spend time walking the beach, examining tide pools, and exploring the pond. They also spend time in the state-of-the-art Marine Salmon Center at Orkila, where they will have the opportunity to dissect a squid! The day visit to the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor, on neighboring San Juan Island is always exciting, too. The emphasis of this camp is on marine ecology, oceanography, and conservation.

DIGITAL MEDIA

Entering grades 7-9. Digital photography and video are the mediums for this enriching program. Using camp's natural surrounding, campers make multiple creations including web posts, short movies, and photo essays.

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

Entering grades 7-9. Ultimate is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Experienced staff offer guidance and coaching in team tactics, disc throwing and offensive and defensive play.

FISHING

Entering grades 7-9. Learn introductory and intermediate angling skills while fishing at some of Washington's premier mountain lakes. Stay at Camp Orkila's Twin Lakes property at the base of Mt. Constitution and fish for rainbow and cutthroat trout on Twin, Mountain and Cascade Lakes.

AND, introducing for the Summer of 2014...

BMX BIKING

Details coming soon!! Entering grades 7-9. No overnight.