13 Campers, 3 Staff, 6 Nights, 30+ Miles Backpacking the Trail
The trail changes people, you won’t come back the same!
Unplugging and being immersed in God’s creation while hiking through the forested terrain of the Black Hills National Forest is a refreshing experience! You’ll share conversation with your community of campers while staff guides the group through God’s Word. It’s an unforgettable and impactful week!
Summer Backpacking Trip
July 5 – 11, 2025
13 spots available; co-ed
For High Schoolers
First time on a Fort Journey?
We’ve got you covered.
Located in Southwest, South Dakota, Black Hills National Forest is 1.2 million acres of forested hills and mountains ideal for a genuine wilderness experience. Prepare to hike 30+ miles along the Centennial Trail, be challenged as a team and experience majestic scenery. In addition to hiking through Black Hills, we will explore Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park, and Mt. Rushmore National Memorial.
Campers will meet at Fort Wilderness or get picked up on the way to the park. Transportation details will be finalized after registration.
Once we hit the trail all belongings and gear will be transported via backpack. Each night we will set up camp at primitive sites along the trail. Backpacking experience is not necessary, but preferred. Being in good physical shape – having the ability to carry your pack and hike terrain – is necessary. We won’t be racing up the mountain, but general good health and physical fitness will make the experience enjoyable!
All meals will be prepared and served by Fort Staff – dehydrated food has never tasted so good! Plus, you’ll experience a few special Fort signature meals prepared along the way.
Trained, experienced staff will guide the trip with both adventure and outfitting skills but also relationally as they lead conversations and daily devotions.
The Journey is sure to challenge campers physically and spiritually.
What equipment does Fort provide?
Fort provides all necessary equipment such as tents and packs. Your personal belongings and required items can be found on the Prep Guide (Coming Soon!).
Is backpacking experience required?
No experience required! We will teach basic backpacking skills and help you feel comfortable once we hit the trail. The packs could weigh as much as 50 lbs and the trail is moderately challenging so being in general good shape is needed. We hike five to eight miles a day.
Can I bring my phone?
This is an unplugged adventure! No phones allowed. (Trip leaders have phones for emergency purposes.)
What are the sleeping arrangements?
We have high-quality four-person tents that 2 – 4 people share. Tents will be separated by gender.
What about bathrooms and showers?
Pit/vault toilets will be provided at some, but not all, campsites we stay at. Showers will be available upon returning to camp the night before pick up.
What about food and water?
On the trail we eat high-quality, freeze-dried food to save weight and space in our packs. A previous trip of high school students gave very high marks! We filter all the water that we consume using Platypus gravity water filters.
How are health issues handled on the trail?
A trained and certified Emergency Medical Responder and Wilderness First Responder will travel with this trip. We will work with special conditions, allergies, or concerns on a case-by-case basis. Filling out the health form accurately and completely at registration is important so that we can serve you well. On the trail, staff perform risk assessments daily and will make decisions in the best interest of the group.
Financial Assistance
Fort Wilderness desires that camp be available to all people, regardless of finances. Don’t miss out on camp. Learn more and apply: financial assistance
Food Allergy Note
For any food allergy, we want to help. The nature of the trip allows some flexibility with food – Please email at the same time of registration to be sure we can accommodate your needs. Contact the Journey Beyond Director, Gunnar Koehn at gunnarkoehn@fortwilderness.com
Basic Camp Schedule
| Opening Day | Arrive at camp or get picked up along the way! Meet your leaders and trail mates Gear prep |
| Day 2-5 | On the trail! Daily devotional led by the staff Evening group activities and prayer |
| Last Day | Travel home – get dropped off on the way Return packs and gear See you next time! |
