Woods to Waves
Ages: 15-17 • Price: $850
Session 2: (6/22-6/27) • Session 5: (7/13-7/18)
Email summerprograms@westminsterwoods.org or call us at 707-874-2426 ext. 612 with any questions.
About Woods to Waves
Woods to Waves continues Westminster Woods' long-standing tradition of trip camps, offering a transformative experience for high schoolers to bond through adventure and meaningful conversation. Together, the group will explore Sonoma County’s hidden creeks, scenic corners, and natural wonders, while sharing personal stories and wisdom around the campfire.
Led by a Wilderness First Responder, campers will hike from Westminster Woods to the coast, spending the week hiking, kayaking, tide-pooling, and engaging in productive dialogues. Along the way, participants will practice important life skills, particularly in facilitating and contributing to meaningful conversations.
Using the physical journey as a metaphor for the journey of life, campers will engage in an ongoing discussion on the topic of meaning—examining what meaning looks like in their own lives and how they can help others find their sense of purpose. In addition, we will explore theological topics, discussing how faith and theology can influence our understanding of meaning. Please note, while these topics will be explored, Woods to Waves will be an open forum for campers of all backgrounds.
Join us for a week of adventure, personal reflection, and deep conversation!
The Journey
Woods to Waves campers begin their adventure on Sunday by joining the rest of the camp for the opening ceremony and their first campfire on-site. On Monday morning, the group will focus on team-building activities at Westminster Woods' state-of-the-art challenge course, followed by a scenic hike to the ridge at the top of our property, where they will spend their first night camping under the stars.
On Tuesday morning, the group sets off on a 10+ mile hike to their coastal campsite at Willow Creek Environmental Campground, where they will base their activities for the rest of the week. From this camp, campers will make exciting excursions, including visits to the beach, kayaking on the Russian River, and exploring the natural beauty of Pomo Canyon.
On Thursday evening, the group will return to Westminster Woods for their final night on-site, enjoying one last campfire together. On Friday, Woods to Waves campers will join the rest of the camp for the Closing Ceremony, reflecting on the week’s journey and experiences.
The conversation
We are living in uncertain times, and young people are feeling it more than ever. In a world filled with online distractions, environmental concerns, and political division, many young people report feeling disconnected and uncertain about the deeper meaning of life. The goal of Woods to Waves is to help counter this feeling by equipping campers with simple, yet powerful tools that empower them to be the best versions of themselves—versions that inspire and encourage others to do the same.
At Woods to Waves, we aim to create a space where campers can engage in structured conversations about the big questions that often only arise in late-night chats with close friends. Around the campfire, our discussions will focus on topics like:
What gives my life meaning?
How do I recognize and cultivate meaning in my life?
How do theology, philosophy, and psychology contribute to our sense of purpose?
Each night, the campfire discussions will be guided by a prompt, but campers will have the freedom to take the conversation wherever they want. While some discussions will touch on theological topics, these conversations will always be open and inclusive, welcoming campers from all backgrounds and beliefs.
Is this program for me?
Woods to Waves is a physically active program, designed for high schoolers aged 15-17, and should be considered intermediate in difficulty. The main challenges involve hiking and kayaking, but even the smaller tasks—like packing, meal prep, and setting up and breaking down camp—contribute to the overall experience. That said, there will also be plenty of downtime for recovery, but trust us, it will be well-earned!
The two core components of Woods to Waves are activity and discussion, and campers who enjoy both will thrive in this program. Here’s what to expect and prepare for:
Be physically active. The journey to the coast is over 10 miles, and kayaking takes some effort! You’ll need to be ready to move, both on land and water.
Engage in meaningful discussions. While Woods to Waves follows a “challenge-by-choice” approach, where sharing is always voluntary, the heart of this program revolves around ongoing dialogue. We want to hear your thoughts and ideas! Campers should be excited and ready to dive into conversations about meaning, life’s big questions, and personal growth.
Packing and Logistics
While sleeping at Willow Creek, campers sleep in large tents by respective genders.
Tents and food are provided by Westminster Woods. Sleeping pads, pillows, sleeping bags, camp chairs, and more must be brought by campers.
A comprehensive packing list will be sent out to campers before the start of camp.
Campers will help prep and cook each meal. Westminster Woods accommodates a vegetarian diet but we strongly encourage campers to bring their own food supplements for any other dietary needs.
about our staff
This program is led by a Wilderness First Responder and two other CPR certified staff members. Our staff has had at least two years of trip leading and child care experience. Each staff member goes through a week-long deliberate and focused training that ensures campers are well supported. Our staff is 18+ years old and all staff members are CPR certified and background checked.
About our Rates
Please choose the price you are able to pay for camp. By choosing a higher pricing tier, you can help us meet our goal of making summer programs available to all campers regardless of their ability to pay for camp. All amounts over the base rate go directly to our Summer Programs Fund, which offers scholarships to campers who need financial aid. All donations are tax deductible.
$850 – This is our subsidized rate, ensuring that every camper has access to a life-changing experience at a lower cost.
$900 – This $50 donation covers the additional costs of activities, supplies, and program enhancements, helping to create a richer camp experience for all.
$950 – This $100 donation solidifies the down payment necessary for scholarship campers to secure their spot at camp, ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of their summer adventure.
$1000 – This $150 donation brings us closer to our goal of $30,000 in camperships, allowing us to offer scholarships to campers from all backgrounds, ensuring that no child is turned away due to financial need.
$1050 – This donation reflects the actual cost of camp, helping to cover everything from meals and accommodations to activities and staff, ensuring that each camper receives the full, transformative experience that Westminster Woods is known for.