A New Survival Academy Summer Camp at Frost Valley YMCA

At just one week old, Edward Michael Grylls was nicknamed Bear by his big sister. He grew up to be a martial artist and soldier in the British Special Forces, eventually channeling his climbing and adventure training into twenty books and the Emmy nominated show, Man Vs Wild. Now Bear Grylls is one of the most recognized faces of survival and outdoor adventure. And that’s inspired the adventure of a lifetime for people of all ages at Frost Valley YMCA.

In partnership with Bear Grylls Survival Academy, the survival programs at Frost Valley have been bringing outdoor enthusiasts into the Catskills for the past three years. They're delivered by Frost Valley staff, who are all trained in the Bear Grylls method. Open to kids ages 11-17, the weeklong Bear Grylls Survival Academy Summer Camp teaches campers about water purification, knife safety, cooking in the wild, and shelter building, all while developing confidence and relationship with nature. Embracing the values of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through outdoor education, which permeates all the programs at Frost Valley YMCA, Bear Grylls campers encourage and support one another through the most challenging parts of their journey.

The Bear Grylls Survival Academy Summer Camp at Frost Valley has been so successful that this summer, from July 16-28, they’re offering a two-week program for experienced Bear Grylls campers. Taking the adventure to the next level, this new program will include higher climbs, more in-depth challenges, a three-day extended overnight survival trek, and a thrilling rappel down the 40-foot High Falls waterfall. “This camp is the first of its kind. This is a great opportunity for teens who love Bear Grylls, and for other thrill-seekers to take part in a supervised wilderness survival course,” says Jeff Williams, Bear Grylls Survival Academy Director. It’s designed to delve deeper into appreciation for nature, development of leadership skills, and building strong character by overcoming challenges within a supportive community.

Bear Grylls Survival Academy Summer Camps at Frost Valley YMCA, 2000 Frost Valley Road in Claryville: July 2-August 18 with advanced two-week program happening July 16-28; ages 11-17; $1,600 for one-week camp, $2,400 for two-week program. Financial aid is available. For details and registration, visit their website.

Frost Valley YMCA hosts multiple summer camp options, including both day and sleep-away, for various ages, dates, and pricing. Explore their website to learn more.