Memories That Last A Lifetime

Youth Rock Climbing Camps in Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park

2026 Camp Dates

Our Camp Model

At KMAC Guides, our camp model is built on the authentic “climber lifestyle.” As lifelong climbers who have traveled the globe, we designed our youth climbing camps to focus on the two most important decisions of the day: What are we climbing? and What’s for dinner?

A Custom Tailored Climbing Experience

Unlike traditional summer camps with rigid schedules, KMAC offers a dynamic, student-led experience. We don’t follow a pre-planned list of routes. Instead, we utilize the massive variety of the Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park, which boasts over 2,000 unique climbs.

By avoiding a “one size fits all” approach, every camp is unique and custom-tailored to the specific skill levels, physical abilities, and personal goals of our students.

Bridging the Gap: From Indoor Gyms to Outdoor Crags

Our outdoor rock climbing programs are designed to help young athletes transition from indoor climbing gyms to real-rock environments. We blend three core pillars to create the ultimate experience:

  1. Traditional Summer Camp Fun: Building lifelong friendships and a love for the outdoors.
  2. Expert Coaching: Subtle observations and technical skill-building from top-level climbing coaches.
  3. AMGA-Certified Safety: Professional risk management and technical instruction from AMGA-trained rock guides.

Why KMAC is Rated the Best Climbing Camp in the Nation

Athletes who have attended multiple programs consistently rate KMAC as the top choice in the country. Our students leave with more than just memories; they gain a foundational baseline of knowledge for a lifetime of safe, smart decision-making in the mountains.

Camp Life

KMAC Base Camp: An Authentic Outdoor Education Experience

Students enjoy an immersive wilderness stay at KMAC’s private base camp bordering Rocky Mountain National Park. Located just minutes from Estes Park, our semi-primitive campground provides the quintessential summer camp experience. Students sleep in tents and enjoy meals in a communal outdoor setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Colorado Rockies.

Developing the Mountain Athlete

Our mission is to educate students to become well-rounded mountain athletes. Our curriculum goes beyond technical climbing to include:

  • Training Theory: Understanding the science of movement and strength.
  • Injury Prevention: Safe practices for a long-term climbing career.
  • Rest & Recovery: The importance of downtime for peak performance.
  • Athlete Nutrition: Learning how to fuel the body for high-altitude outdoor activities.

Leave No Trace & Wilderness Skills

At KMAC, we teach skills that an indoor climbing gym cannot provide. We place a high priority on Leave No Trace (LNT) ethics and backcountry principles, ensuring our students become responsible stewards of our public lands.

Quality Nutrition & Dietary Accommodations

Fueling our athletes is a top priority. We provide high-quality, fresh meals for all students and are happy to cater to all dietary restrictions and food allergies. Whether your student is gluten-free, vegan, or has specific allergies, we ensure they are well-fed and ready for adventure.

Custom Youth Camps

Looking for a custom camp for your youth climbing team or private group? We are happy to chat and talk about options.

Premier Climbing Destinations in Colorado and Utah

We offer world-class instruction and guiding across the most iconic climbing destinations in the West. Whether your team wants to transition from plastic to real rock or refine advanced technical skills, we host custom camps in:

  • Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP): Alpine adventures and classic Estes Park granite.
  • Shelf Road, CO: Premier sport climbing and limestone cragging.
  • Rifle Mountain Park, CO: World-renowned technical sport climbing.
  • Moab, Utah: Iconic desert cracks and sandstone towers.

Tailored Training for Competitive Climbing Teams

We have a proven track record of hosting climbing teams and youth organizations from across the country. Our custom programs can include specialized outdoor education, AMGA-certified guiding, and athlete-specific training theory.

Plan Your 2026 Custom Trip

Let’s build the perfect itinerary for your group. Contact KMAC Guides today to discuss locations, dates, and custom programming options for your next team trip! Give us a call today.

Youth climbing camp cancellation policy: we will give a full refund if you can cancel with 21 or more days before the start of camp. Inside of that time we can only offer a refund if we can find another student to fill the spot.

Short On Time?

If you can’t make it out for a youth climbing camp, we would still be happy to get you and/or your young climber out on the rocks. Check out our one day options by clicking the link.

Guided Rock Climbing