Alabama
Waterfalls, lush trails, and the most biodiverse wilderness in the Southeast -- plus indoor rock climbing in Birmingham.
Grades
3rd–9th
Duration
6–9 Days
Hiking
<1 hr/day
Tuition
$1,200–$1,750
Trip Overview
The Alabama trip takes campers to Sipsey Wilderness, located about 5 hours from Live Oak Camp. Sipsey is widely considered the most biodiverse wilderness area in Southeastern America, with lush green trails winding through old-growth forest, past cascading waterfalls, and along scenic creek beds.
This trip uses a mix of car camping and short backpacking, making it accessible to campers with little or no prior outdoor experience. The emphasis is on basic camping skills -- setting up camp, cooking meals, and learning to be comfortable in the woods. Hiking is light, less than an hour per day with a backpacking pack.
In 2027, Alabama runs at two levels: Stone (easy) for 3rd–5th graders and Boulder (medium) for 6th–9th graders.
The special event for this trip is a day of indoor rock climbing followed by exploring the city of Birmingham, Alabama -- a great change of pace and a chance to try something completely different mid-trip.
What You'll Do
Explore Sipsey Wilderness
Hike through the Southeast's most biodiverse wilderness -- lush green trails, old-growth forest, and waterfalls around every bend.
Car Camping & Backpacking
Learn the fundamentals of outdoor living with a comfortable mix of car camping and short backpacking excursions.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Take on the climbing wall at a top-notch facility in Birmingham -- a thrilling challenge and a trip highlight.
Explore Birmingham
Discover the culture and history of Birmingham, Alabama during your special event day in the city.
Trip Details
What's Included
- Food and lodging for the full trip
- Transportation to and from Sipsey Wilderness
- Specialized camping gear
- Indoor rock climbing and all activities
Good to Know
- Stone and Boulder levels -- no prior experience required
- Less than 1 hour/day hiking with a backpacking pack
- Sipsey is about 5 hours from camp
- Great stepping stone to Mountain-level trips
Summer 2027 Trips
Session 2
Alabama (Stone)
Wed, June 30 – Thu, July 8 · 9 days
Session 2
Alabama (Boulder)
Wed, June 30 – Thu, July 8 · 9 days
Junior Camp
Alabama (Boulder)
Mon, July 26 – Sat, July 31 · 6 days
Grades are your child's grade this school year (2026–27).
Each trip holds 10 adventurers. Join the waitlist if it's full and we may open additional trips.
Trips start co-ed. If signups allow, we may split some trips into single-gender groups.
20% multi-session discount available when attending more than one session (Summer Camp or LOWA). Scholarships available.