The Dolores River Boating Advocates is gearing up for its annual Dolores River Camp, a three-day, two-night outdoor river adventure for youths age 11 to 14. Two sessions will be offered.
Each session will hold up to 20 students who wish to explore and learn about the Dolores River. The first is May 27-29, and the second, May 30 through Sunday, June 1.
Participants will have hands-on activities, including camping, hiking, fly fishing, rafting and stand-up paddle boarding. The camp’s highlight will be a rafting trip on the San Miguel River. Participating youths also may connect with peers and build friendships while adventuring in the Dolores River.
The camp emphasizes education about the Dolores River watershed. Campers will study maps and 3D models to understand the region’s geography and hydrology and observe water movement while visiting key tributaries. Attendees will also explore the human and natural history of the river while learning Leave No Trace principles.
The adventure camp will have whitewater recreation is a key focus, and campers will be able to meet professionals and try various kinds of watercraft.
The application deadline is Wednesday and the camp is offered at no cost. Meals and gear will also be provided.
“Our main goal is to create experiences that help them feel more comfortable and safe in the outdoors,” Jay Loschert, Dolores River Boating Advocates program and outreach director, told The Journal. “It is so important that everyone has a way to connect with the natural world, to find peace and a sense of belonging there, and to feel strong and confident when they venture outside. We fully expect they will have lots of fun with friends and learn to appreciate our local rivers.”
Dolores River and Boating Advocates teams up with community partners like the Montezuma Inspire Coalition to make the camp possible.
“We work really hard to remove barriers, like cost and owning expensive gear, so that these experiences are more accessible for all,” Loschert said. “Plus, I'm stoked to work with an amazing, dedicated group of camp staffers; they bring boatloads of professional outdoor education experience and a fun vibe to river camp.”
Applications are available online or by contacting Loschert at (970) 799-1475 or jay@doloresriverboating.org.
