For the fun of it: The importance of fun and outdoor adventure at Alpengirl Camp

Friluftsliv Nobody can pronounce it (unless you’re from Norway), but it’s a concept that Alpengirl camp aims to live by. The Norwegian word speaks to the importance of openair living and embracing outdoor adventure in all manners. Friluftsliv isn’t about summiting the highest peaks or setting the fastest records, it’s about engaging with our outdoor environment in whatever way sparks joy.

Alpengirl Camp fully believes that the outdoors is a place for everyone, and doesn’t need to be intimidating, competitive or scary. That’s why, above all else, we focus on FUN. Yes, we want Alpengirls to leave the summer with some new outdoor living skills – knowing how to set up a tent, build a fire and cook up a tasty meal on a camp stove. But while we’re doing that, there will be songs and dance parties, spontaneous games and competitions, costume fashion shows and nail painting along with gut-busting laughter around the campfire. These are the moments that make an Alpengirl summer truly special.

“This Vehicle Stops for RoadsideDance Parties” We proudly post these bumper stickers on the back of every Alpengirl vehicle. They embody the spirit of our camp – when the energy begins to rise, it’s time to dance it out. We’ll pull over on the side of the road (a safe distance away from traffic) and let loose, giving other motorists a lift to their day as well.

Alpenolympics

The Alpenolympics are the Olympics of Fun! The games are comprised of low-key competitions that lead to motivation and education – who can spray their toothpaste with the most flare to best demonstrate Leave No Trace principles?! Alpenguides will choose events that highlight campers’ special skills and give each Alpengirl a chance to showcase their abilities, develop sportswomanship and giggle their way through tasks that challenge their strength, intellect, creativity and sense of adventure. Each “gold medal” is celebrated nightly as the group hums an off-tune Olympic anthem and plots the next day’s goofy challenge.

Music

Alpengirl LOVES music (refer above to our commitment to busting a move on the side of the road). At camp, music can be the foundation for many fun activities, from skits to talent show acts and just having fun on the trail. Whether it’s blaring from the van speakers or singing Taylor Swift at the top of our lungs to make sure the bears hear us coming – they always do, and steer clear accordingly – music helps us express our joy at being outside and embracing our whole selves.

We operate in a way that is comfortable for teens. Our focus is on the enjoyment of each activity, in order to promote a lifetime of adventure in each camper. All activities are challenge by choice, and we encourage all Alpengirls to participate in any way they feel most comfortable. Self-reliance, initiative, group cohesion and positivism are daily objectives, and increased self-esteem and leadership development are the two most common outcomes noticed by campers and parents after an Alpengirl summer.

By not focusing on clear-cut objectives, we learn to enjoy the journey more. Having fun allows us the opportunity to connect and create bonds with others, fostering cooperation and collaboration. We create a “piggy bank” of positive experiences that helps reduce our vulnerability when life begins to feel stressful again. Disconnecting from technology allows campers to stop being “on” all the time, and focus more on interacting with what is directly around them.

Alpengirl Camp Director Gabby McElwain says, “Alpengirl was designed to help young women develop a lifelong love of the outdoors. We prioritize fun and integrate teamwork and leadership skills so that girls become a stronger, more well-rounded version of themselves, and feel free to be their wild, wacky, nature-loving selves.”

Fun is essential for our health and happiness, and embracing the concept of friluftsliv (OK, we’ll help; it’s pronounced “free-loofts-liv”) can help us get there. Maybe we will summit some peaks this summer, but you can be sure we’ll be in our tutus when we do.

Keren Mikva is the Assistant Director at Alpengirl Camp.