Adventure Trips
Adventure Trips offer an opportunity for 6th through 12th grade students to experience the great outdoors in a multitude of ways. Our programming includes backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, white water rafting, canoeing, and other outdoor activities. Following a thorough orientation at camp, campers will load up and head out to their destination.
We have three tiers of adventuring: Beginner (B), Intermediate (I), and Advanced (A). Beginner trips will introduce foundational principles of being in the outdoors. Intermediate trips will test the skills of the participants by experiencing the outdoors at a more involved pace. Advanced trips will challenge everything that the participants have learned in other trips, culminating in the experience of a lifetime.
Please see our 2026 Family Handbook for information on programming, preparation tools, and other policies before registering. There will also be detailed information for individual trips regarding itineraries, safety, and preparation that comes out prior to the trip starting.
Backpacking the Porcupine Mountains (I)
Backpacking the Porcupine Mountains: Intermediate
(entering 8-11 grade)
These billion-year-old mountains in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan offer some of the most astonishing views in the Midwest. Renowned for the beautiful backcountry trails and campsites, these mountains make for a perfect backpacking experience. After a day in the frontcountry, we will set out on an adventure into the Porkies for 2 nights, experiencing waterfalls, breathtaking vistas, and the joys of being surrounded by nature. So, to the intermediate adventurers with backpacking experience, let’s gear up and get out there!
Additional trip details, including a full packing list and final itinerary, will be shared with families prior to departure. This trip is designed as an Intermediate backpacking experience. Participants should be prepared for both the physical and mental aspects of the adventure, including hiking up to 7 miles at a time and carrying their own backpack, weighing approximately 15–20% of their body weight. With a supportive group, experienced staff, and plenty of time to learn along the way, campers will build confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment as they experience rustic living and explore the backcountry together.
If access to gear or supplies is a barrier to participation, families are encouraged to reach out to camp as we are happy to help provide or coordinate needed equipment whenever possible.
2027 REGISTRATION at 2026 Prices for returning 2026 campers:
At Wapsie and the Y, we understand families have differing abilities to pay. To better accommodate many income levels, Camp Wapsie has tiered pricing levels. Choose the one you can best afford.
Tier A: $717.00 – Reflects most accurately the true price of camp
Tier B: $667.00 – Partially subsidized
Tier C: $617.00 – More subsidized
PAYMENT:
At the time of registration, you will be required to pay a $100.00 non-refundable deposit per session.
Final payment for each session is due 30 days prior to the session start. Fees are set up on automatic withdrawal. If you have any questions about this, please contact the office.
CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES:
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email [email protected]. Cancellations less than 10 days prior to the session start date forfeit half the camp fees. No Shows will be charged the full fee. There is no refund for behavior-related problems including bullying, abusive language, use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products. Campers who leave or cancel on the advice of medical personnel will receive a prorated refund with a physician’s note.
Changes: To request a program or week change, you must email camp at [email protected]. Please include the child’s name, birthdate, what week they are changing from, and what week you are requesting to change to. If there is availability for camp to accommodate your request, we will move the participant and send a confirmation email to you. There is a $25 processing fee.
For questions, please call 319-435-2577 or email [email protected].
Registration Information
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Minimum Deposit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
07/18/27 - 07/24/27
Backpacking the Porcupine Mountains
|
$ 100.00 |
Registration Closed Opens on 10/15/26 |
Backpacking Yellow River (B)
Backpacking Yellow River: Beginner
(entering 6-8 grade)
Yellow River State Forest is a staple of the driftless region. Beautiful limestone bluffs, rolling hills, and dense deciduous forests make this area a playground for those with a desire for exploration. After a night in the frontcountry, we will pack up and carry all of our gear and food into the wilderness to explore and experience the comforting solitude of nature. This beginner trip is the perfect introduction to backpacking and an amazing opportunity to experience teamwork, community, and rustic living.
Additional trip details, including a full packing list and final itinerary, will be shared with families prior to departure. This trip is designed as a beginner-friendly backpacking experience, and we welcome campers who are excited to try backpacking for the first time. Participants should be prepared for both the physical and mental aspects of the adventure, including hiking up to 4 miles at a time and carrying their own backpack, weighing approximately 15–20% of their body weight. With a supportive group, experienced staff, and plenty of time to learn along the way, campers will build confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment as they experience rustic living and explore the backcountry together.
If access to gear or supplies is a barrier to participation, families are encouraged to reach out to camp as we are happy to help provide or coordinate needed equipment whenever possible.
2027 PRE-REGISTRATION at 2026 Prices for returning 2026 campers:
At Wapsie and the Y, we understand families have differing abilities to pay. To better accommodate many income levels, Camp Wapsie has tiered pricing levels. Choose the one you can best afford.
Tier A: $699.00 – Reflects most accurately the true price of camp
Tier B: $649.00 – Partially subsidized
Tier C: $599.00 – More subsidized
PAYMENT:
At the time of registration, you will be required to pay a $100.00 non-refundable deposit per session.
Final payment for each session is due 30 days prior to the session start. Fees are set up on automatic withdrawal. If you have any questions about this, please contact the office.
CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES:
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email, [email protected]. Cancellations less than 10 days prior to the session start date forfeit half the camp fees. No Shows will be charged the full fee. There is no refund for behavior-related problems including bullying, abusive language, use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products. Campers who leave or cancel on the advice of medical personnel will receive a prorated refund with a physician’s note.
Changes: To request a program or week change, you must email camp at [email protected]. Please include the child’s name, birthdate, what week they are changing from, and what week you are requesting to change to. If there is availability for camp to accommodate your request, we will move the participant and send a confirmation email to you. There is a $25 processing fee.
For questions, please call 319-435-2577 or email [email protected].
Registration Information
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Minimum Deposit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/20/27 - 06/26/27
Backpacking Yellow River
|
$ 100.00 |
Registration Closed Opens on 10/15/26 |
Devil's Lake Climbing (I)
Devil’s Lake Climbing: Intermediate
(entering 7-9 grade)
15,000 years ago, the Wisconsin Glacier deposited massive amounts of rock and earth on the ends of a deep river gorge. As the glacier melted and receded, the river gorge filled with water and created a 360-acre lake with 500-foot bluffs on 3 sides. This lake is now known as Devil’s Lake. As a result of its geologic history, it has the most thrilling rock climbing in the Midwest. On this trip we will adventure into this region and spend 3 days climbing some well-known routes. The intermediate rated climbs are great experiences for beginner and intermediate climbers.
Additional trip details, including a full packing list and final itinerary, will be shared with families prior to departure.
If access to gear or supplies is a barrier to participation, families are encouraged to reach out to camp as we are happy to help provide or coordinate needed equipment whenever possible.
2027 REGISTRATION at 2026 Prices for returning 2026 campers:
At Wapsie and the Y, we understand families have differing abilities to pay. To better accommodate many income levels, Camp Wapsie has tiered pricing levels. Choose the one you can best afford.
Tier A: $717.00 – Reflects most accurately the true price of camp
Tier B: $667.00 – Partially subsidized
Tier C: $617.00 – More subsidized
PAYMENT:
At the time of registration, you will be required to pay a $100.00 non-refundable deposit per session.
Final payment for each session is due 30 days prior to the session start. Fees are set up on automatic withdrawal. If you have any questions about this, please contact the office.
CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES:
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email [email protected]. Cancellations less than 10 days prior to the session start date forfeit half the camp fees. No Shows will be charged the full fee. There is no refund for behavior-related problems including bullying, abusive language, use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products. Campers who leave or cancel on the advice of medical personnel will receive a prorated refund with a physician’s note.
Changes: To request a program or week change, you must email camp at [email protected]. Please include the child’s name, birthdate, what week they are changing from, and what week you are requesting to change to. If there is availability for camp to accommodate your request, we will move the participant and send a confirmation email to you. There is a $25 processing fee.
For questions, please call 319-435-2577 or email [email protected].
Registration Information
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Minimum Deposit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
07/11/27 - 07/17/27
Devil's Lake Climbing
|
$ 100.00 |
Registration Closed Opens on 10/15/26 |
Explore Eastern Iowa Adventure (B)
Explore Eastern Iowa Adventure: Beginner
(entering 6-8 grade)
The natural beauty of Eastern Iowa is diverse and fascinating. With a long geological history of ancient oceans and glaciation leading to the landscape we see today, there is so much to explore. Spelunking, climbing, camping, canoeing, and tubing are all the things you can expect to get out of this beautiful tour around Eastern Iowa. Visiting Maquoketa Caves State Park as well as Backbone State Park, this trip covers a range of outdoor activities at the perfect introductory level.
Additional trip details, including a full packing list and final itinerary, will be shared with families prior to departure.
If access to gear or supplies is a barrier to participation, families are encouraged to reach out to camp as we are happy to help provide or coordinate needed equipment whenever possible.
2027 REGISTRATION at 2026 Prices for returning 2026 campers:
At Wapsie and the Y, we understand families have differing abilities to pay. To better accommodate many income levels, Camp Wapsie has tiered pricing levels. Choose the one you can best afford.
Tier A: $717.00 – Reflects most accurately the true price of camp
Tier B: $667.00 – Partially subsidized
Tier C: $617.00 – More subsidized
PAYMENT:
At the time of registration, you will be required to pay a $100.00 non-refundable deposit per session.
Final payment for each session is due 30 days prior to the session start. Fees are set up on automatic withdrawal. If you have any questions about this, please contact the office.
CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES:
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email, [email protected]. Cancellations less than 10 days prior to the session start date forfeit half the camp fees. No Shows will be charged the full fee. There is no refund for behavior-related problems including bullying, abusive language, use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products. Campers who leave or cancel on the advice of medical personnel will receive a prorated refund with a physician’s note.
Changes: To request a program or week change, you must email camp at [email protected]. Please include the child’s name, birthdate, what week they are changing from, and what week you are requesting to change to. If there is availability for camp to accommodate your request, we will move the participant and send a confirmation email to you. There is a $25 processing fee.
For questions, please call 319-435-2577 or email [email protected].
Registration Information
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Minimum Deposit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
07/04/27 - 07/10/27
Explore Eastern Iowa Adventure
|
$ 100.00 |
Registration Closed Opens on 10/15/26 |
Grand Teton Expedition (A)
Grand Teton Expedition: Advanced
(entering 9-12 grade)
The Teton Range is one of the most well-known mountain ranges in Wyoming, offering pristine nature and lots of adventure. This two-week trip will be some of the most intense adventuring that has ever crossed the program. You will be taken to new heights in backpacking, rock scrambling, and white-water rafting.
We will road trip across the great plains to reveal the awe-inspiring Grand Teton Peak standing at 13,775 feet. After spending a few days adjusting to altitude and doing day hikes in Grand Teton National Park, we will venture into the backcountry and backpack in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, experiencing nature in its rawest form. Finally, to finish off our experience in the Tetons, we will white-water raft on the beautiful Snake River underneath the Teton Range. This trip is the pinnacle of the Wapsie Trip experience. Advanced adventurers, this one is for you.
Additional trip details, including a full packing list and final itinerary, will be shared with families prior to departure. This trip is designed as an Intermediate-Advanced backpacking experience. Participants should be prepared for both the physical and mental aspects of the adventure, including hiking up to 7 miles at a time and carrying their own backpack, weighing approximately 15–20% of their body weight. With a supportive group, experienced staff, and plenty of time to learn along the way, campers will build confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment as they experience rustic living and explore the backcountry together.
If access to gear or supplies is a barrier to participation, families are encouraged to reach out to camp as we are happy to help provide or coordinate needed equipment whenever possible.
2027 REGISTRATION for returning 2026 campers:
At Wapsie and the Y, we understand families have differing abilities to pay. To better accommodate many income levels, Camp Wapsie has tiered pricing levels. Choose the one you can best afford.
Tier A: $1425.00 – Reflects most accurately the true price of camp
Tier B: $1375.00 – Partially subsidized
Tier C: $1325.00 – More subsidized
PAYMENT:
At the time of registration, you will be required to pay a $100.00 non-refundable deposit per session.
Final payment for each session is due 30 days prior to the session start. Fees are set up on automatic withdrawal. If you have any questions about this, please contact the office.
CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES:
Cancellations and changes must be made in writing or by email to [email protected]. Cancellations anytime forfeit the $100 deposit. Cancellations less than 10 days prior to the session start date forfeit half the camp fees. No Shows will be charged the full fee. There is no refund for behavior-related problems. Campers who leave or cancel on the advice of medical personnel will receive a prorated refund. A physician’s note is required.
Changes: To request a program or week change, you must email camp at [email protected]. Please include the child’s name, birthdate, what week they are changing from, and what week you are requesting to change to. If there is availability for camp to accommodate your request, we will move the participant and send a confirmation email to you. There is a $25 processing fee.
For questions, please call 319-435-2577 or email [email protected].
Registration Information
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Minimum Deposit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/01/27 - 08/14/27
Grand Teton Expedition
|
$ 100.00 |
Registration Closed Opens on 10/15/26 |
White Water Rafting (I)
White Water Rafting: Intermediate
(entering 8-11 grade)
Join us on a great adventure into Wisconsin’s Nicolet National Forest to white-water raft on some thrilling class II-IV rapids. With experienced guides from Wildman Adventure Resort, you will spend two days rafting on two rivers: the Menominee and the Peshtigo. After our rafting days, we will travel to Devil’s Lake for a day of climbing the beautiful natural rock faces left behind by glaciation millions of years ago. If you’re an intermediate adventurer looking for a high-octane experience paired with the spectacular beauty of the Northwoods, this trip is for you!
Additional trip details, including a full packing list and final itinerary, will be shared with families prior to departure.
If access to gear or supplies is a barrier to participation, families are encouraged to reach out to camp as we are happy to help provide or coordinate needed equipment whenever possible.
2027 PRE-REGISTRATION at 2026 Prices for returning 2026 campers:
At Wapsie and the Y, we understand families have differing abilities to pay. To better accommodate many income levels, Camp Wapsie has tiered pricing levels. Choose the one you can best afford.
Tier A: $741.00 – Reflects most accurately the true price of camp
Tier B: $691.00 – Partially subsidized
Tier C: $641.00 – More subsidized
PAYMENT:
At the time of registration, you will be required to pay a $100.00 non-refundable deposit per session.
Final payment for each session is due 30 days prior to the session start. Fees are set up on automatic withdrawal. If you have any questions about this, please contact the office.
CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES:
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email, [email protected]. Cancellations less than 10 days prior to the session start date forfeit half the camp fees. No Shows will be charged the full fee. There is no refund for behavior-related problems including bullying, abusive language, use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products. Campers who leave or cancel on the advice of medical personnel will receive a prorated refund with a physician’s note.
Changes: To request a program or week change, you must email camp at [email protected]. Please include the child’s name, birthdate, what week they are changing from, and what week you are requesting to change to. If there is availability for camp to accommodate your request, we will move the participant and send a confirmation email to you. There is a $25 processing fee.
For questions, please call 319-435-2577 or email [email protected].
Registration Information
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | Minimum Deposit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/13/27 - 06/19/27
White Water Rafting
|
$ 100.00 |
Registration Closed Opens on 10/15/26 |