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Leader in Training – Camp Backcountry

The Leader in Training (LIT) Program is a mentorship program for high school students that focuses on leadership development and prepares them for future jobs, whether as a counselor at Camp Backcountry or elsewhere. This program gives students training, mentorship, and real-life experiences to sharpen their organization, social, and responsibility skills, all while earning volunteer service hours. 

LITs will be paired with a counselor-mentor on Monday mornings, who they will learn from throughout the week. LITs will spend the week assisting with, and going on adventures with, this one camp group. Throughout the week, LITs will participate in special activities, leadership training, and exclusive programming designed specifically for the teens.
 

Key Leader in Training Information

  • LITs must be ages 14-17 at the time of the program, no exceptions 
  • LITs must commit to participating in a minimum of 2 weeks in the program 
  • LITs may choose to work with nature camp, horse camp, or art camp based upon their interests
  • Camp Backcountry prides itself on being an inclusive program that celebrates diversity and differences
  • LITs come from all surrounding high schools and districts 
  • Students, not parents, are responsible for communicating with Camp Backcountry staff regarding the Leader in Training opportunity 
  • The program is competitive and requires an application. See below for more information. 

2023 LIT Camps

Session Dates Nature Horse Art
Week 1 May 30 - June 2 Walk on the Wild Side English Equestrians Wild About Color
Week 2 June 5 - 9 Land of the Lost Barnyard Palooza Wild About Color
Week 3 June 12 - 16 Nature’s Kitchen Horsin’ Around  
Week 4 June 19 - 23 Totally Gross Gymkhana Camp Be the Change
Week 5 June 26 - 30 Wilderness Survival Ranch Hands Be the Change
Week 6 July 5 - 7 Beasts and Myths English Equestrians  
Week 7 July 10 - 14 Rooted in Nature Barnyard Palooza  
Week 8 July 17 - 21 Geology Rocks Horsin’ Around Creative by Nature
Week 9 July 24 - 28 Color Wars! Gymkhana Camp Creative by Nature
Week 10 July 31 - August 4 Best of Camp Backcountry Ranch Hands  

Apply to be a Leader In Training

How to Apply: Submit the online application form, below.

  • Both new and returning LITs must submit an application. Participating in the program one year does not guarantee a spot in subsequent years. 
  • Applications for the summer of 2023 will be accepted between January 1, 2023, and April 28, 2023. While applications may be submitted through April 28, there is no guarantee all spots will not be filled prior to this date. 
  • Slots are competitive and will be filled on a rolling basis. 
  • Applications submitted after April 28 will not be reviewed. 
  • If you are accepted into the program, you will be given more information on how to choose your sessions and register. LITs must be formally accepted into the program before they can register. 

More Camp Backcountry Information

For registration issues or questions contact member services at 303-471-7020.

For questions regarding Camp Backcountry contact [email protected].