“It just feels really really good to be out here in the wild! I’m super excited to look back on these photos when I’m older and see how happy I was to be here and how excited I was.” -2023 KROC Summer Participant, age 13

Students in grades 6-12 can spend their school breaks exploring the wild beauty of the Katahdin region through hiking, camping, canoeing, and biking adventures! These programs offer more than just time outdoors—they help students build leadership skills, form lasting friendships, and deepen their connection to nature. Best of all, all programs are free, and meals are provided for overnight trips. Join us for unforgettable experiences, challenge yourself in new ways, and discover the best of what the Katahdin region has to offer!

Email elise@friendsofkww.org with any questions.


2025 Summer Programs

More information for each trip can be found here.

Intro to Camping | June 23-24

A beginner-friendly overnight trip focused on essential camping skills like tent setup, campfire cooking, Leave No Trace principles, and fire starting—perfect for first-time campers. Registration Link.

Day Hike | July 1

A full-day hiking adventure in the Katahdin Region designed to build confidence and outdoor awareness, with no prior hiking experience required. Registration Link.

Overnight Hiking Trip | July 8-10

A two-night car camping experience that deepens trail skills and fosters both independence and teamwork. We’ll visit several different parks in the north end of the Katahdin region and enjoy quiet evenings around the campfire. Registration Link.

Mountain Bike Day Trip | July 17

A day of riding and skill-building on local trails, geared toward beginners and intermediate riders looking to improve their mountain biking technique. Registration Link.

Overnight Mountain Bike Trip | July 22-24

A multi-day mountain biking and camping trip that combines trail riding with outdoor living, offering youth a chance to grow their biking and outdoor skills. No experience required, however, we recommend students attend the day mountain bike trip prior. Registration Link.

Intro to Paddle Sports | July 29

An exploration of local waterways using kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and duckies, with games and a short upriver paddle to build water confidence. Registration Link.

Overnight Paddle Trip | August 5-7

A two-night paddling and camping trip featuring flat-water and whitewater activities, designed for youth ready to expand their water navigation and outdoor living skills. No experience necessary, however, we recommend students become familiar with the boats on our day paddle program. Registration Link.

Take a look at our 2024 summer report!


What is KROC?

KROC (Katahdin Region Outdoor Collective) is a dynamic group of non-profits, individuals, businesses, and government organizations with a shared belief in the profound impact of outdoor experiences on youth wellbeing and the future vitality of the Katahdin region. Our collaborative efforts result in year-round opportunities for young individuals to foster a deep connection to nature, cultivate leadership skills, and become future land stewards.

KROC facilitators include:

Friends of Katahdin Woods and waters logo