Rattler Ford Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest, Robinsville NC
Thursday, July 23rd, 2026
Trail Camp for Big Kids
Overview
- Invite: Have you ever been jealous of all the kids who get to go on camps every summer? It sucks being a big kid with responsibility but here at the annual Trail Camp for big Kids, we are now inviting you, the big kid!
- Focus: This camp will focus on a variety of things: team building, navigation, community service, friendship, and of course a bit of running!
- Purpose: Trail camp is for adults to get away from the busyness of life and a chance to play in the mountains for a long weekend.
- Inclusivity: This camp welcomes all levels of runners and even non-runners!
Details
- Schedule: Camp consists of sharing campfire stories, trail stories, bad jokes, and miles throughout the forest.
- No Pressure: Camp is a no-pressure weekend so you are welcome to run as much or as little as you like.
- Location: We are headed back to Rattler Ford Group Campground in the Nantahala National Forest!
- Group Runs: We will have some planned runs and we can split into groups that will stick together!
Logistics
- Dietary Restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions, please plan to bring adequate food for yourself.
- Carpooling: NOTE: Carpooling will be VERY helpful. There is limited parking!
- Date: July 23th - July 26th 2026.
- Location: Rattler Ford Group Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest, Robbinsville, NC 28771.
Schedule of Activities
Thursday
- Arrival: Campers arrive after 2pm or Friday morning.
- Set Up: Set Up Camp, Relax, Crack a Beverage.
- Optional Run: Rattler Ford Camp Ground - Optional Easy Run or just hangout and get setup.
Friday
- Breakfast: Breakfast Provided.
- Shakeout Run: Group Shakeout Run - Noon.
- Route: Joyce Kilmer Lower Loop Trail (leave from camp) Posted HERE.
- Dinner Plan: Camper responsible for own meal.
Saturday
- Longest Day: Saturday will be our longest day on the trails.
- Breakfast: Breakfast 7-8 am; provided by runner.
- Lunch: On trail, Runner responsible.
- Run Options: AT to NOC Run! Route.
Sunday
- Open Book: Sunday is an open book. Sunrise possible at Maple Springs Overlook.
- Checkout: Checkout is 11am.
Additional Information
- Preparation: The trails may be overgrown, buggy, wet, you know, the typical trail things. So please come prepared with bug spray and anti-itch.
- Guidance: Have an adventure buddy for all runs unless you are a seasoned trail running.
- Alert: Let someone know where you are going if you go alone.
Register
For more information and to register, visit Trail Camp for Big Kids.
