Camp Olson Leadership Development Programs

Hundreds of young adults are uplifted and inspired each summer during their time at Camp Olson. Nurtured by inspired leaders and immersed in nature's beauty, teens and young adults at Camp Olson are afforded the opportunity look inward and discover themselves. Our Leadership Development Programs cultivate young leaders through intense curricula that challenge the mind, body, and spirit of all participants. At Camp Olson we build great leaders who apply themselves in their lives, their schools, and their communities. Participants who complete these programs are awarded a certificate of achievement that looks great on college applications!

2009 Registration is Open!!

Click here for Schedule, dates and fees

Counselor In Training (CIT) Program   Age 16 by start of session

The ever-popular Camp Olson CIT Program offers campers the ultimate training experience for those who aspire to work as a camp counselor in the future.  CITs will spend over a week on the Superior Hiking Trail, bonding and pushing their limits.  The lessons learned on the trail will be immediately put to use upon return to camp through leadership training and instruction in each of Camp Olson’s program areas.  This is a highly competitive and space-limited program.  Potential CITs must complete an application as we can only accept 11 participants.  Application is included.  Applicants must send completed application in along with registration and deposit. CLICK HERE for an application

Leadership In Training (LIT) Program   Ages 13-15

This program is catered to the older camper who seeks to get a little more from their Camp Olson experience.  Through hands-on training and group initiatives, the Camp Olson LIT program focuses on cooperation, self-discovery, and leadership skills.  Each two-week session includes a three day canoe trip and a day trip to a climbing wall and ropes course.  Campers will stay in two of our newer timber-framed cabins and spend their mornings with their fellow LITs gaining leadership skills through an array of team building and thought provoking activities.  Afternoons are open so that campers may choose their own activities.  LITs will leave with a greater sense of themselves and the necessary skills to be a leader. CLICK HERE for a Leadership Questionnaire.

Homestead   Ages 13-16

The Camp Olson Homestead Program returns to provide life lessons through leadership, stewardship, and adventure!  This 3-week program offers teens the chance to live and learn with their leaders in our rustic Homestead cabin and on a week long trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.  Life at the Homestead will focus on living off the land in an eco-friendly way and how we can apply these lessons toward our modern lifestyle.  The lessons learned and experiences gained are a firm foundation for future leaders in your schools, communities, and beyond.  

Wilderness Trip    Ages 14-16  

This 2-week program offers teens the chance to gain direct leadership experience both at Camp Olson and on the trail.  Teens will spend a over a week on beautiful Isle Royale in Lake Superior where they will explore the fascinating ecosystem of this remote wilderness.  Campers will tent camp on Camp Olson property as they prepare to pack out and hit the trail.  Upon their return, Trippers will be able to present their experience to fellow campers and enjoy their favorite camp programs.

Wrangler In Training Ages 16-17

Available in 1-3 week sessions June 14-Aug 8th        $540/week

The Wrangler in Training Program takes on two campers per two-week session for extensive training with our wonderful Corral staff.  WITs will acquire the equine skills and knowledge it takes to work at the Camp Olson Corral and beyond. Application (included here and available on our website) required for those interested since space is limited.  Applicants must send completed application in along with registration and deposit. CLICK HERE for a Leadership Questionnaire.

Skipper In Training Ages 16-17

Available in 1-3 week sessions June 14-Aug 8th           $540/week

Camp Olson Skippers in Training have the opportunity to hone their sailing skills with our knowledgeable boathouse staff. SIT’s will also get to go behind the scenes of Camp Olson’s premier sailing program where they will gain teaching skills and boat maintenance knowledge. Applicants must send completed application in along with registration and deposit.  Applications are included here and available on our website. CLICK HERE for a Leadership Questionnaire.