More Summer Camps › Extreme Journey History Camp
This summer, the Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area is offering middle school students (rising 6th-8th graders) an exciting day camp experience that blends history, outdoor exploration, and hands-on learning — all set against the backdrop of Oatlands in Leesburg, VA!
Extreme Journey History Camp features three immersive one-week sessions, with the flexibility to attend one, two, or all three! In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this year’s adventures explore the bold ideas that shaped America — and continue to inspire today.
Each week gives campers the opportunity to discover history where it happened — two and a half travel days to historic sites throughout the area are included in every session!
Jul 13-17, 2026
History’s Mysteries: The Art of Historical Detection
Campers are invited to step into the role of real-life history detectives as they explore fascinating local stories, investigate real historical cases, and uncover hidden secrets in their surroundings. Perfect for those who love solving mysteries, asking big questions, and discovering how the past connects to today, this experience encourages curiosity and critical thinking. Through interactive activities, primary source analysis, and outdoor challenges, campers learn how historians reconstruct the past using the landscape, documents, and material evidence. Participants also explore James Madison’s Montpelier, the Thomas Balch Library, and enjoy a full-day outdoor adventure featuring tubing.
Jul 20-24, 2026
American Ideals: The Decisions that Changed America
Campers are invited to explore the powerful ideas that helped shape a nation. Through engaging experiences, participants examine foundational documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution, discovering how these principles influenced the critical decisions that shaped the course of American history. Designed for those ready to tackle big questions and see how ideas can spark action, this program brings history to life in meaningful ways. Campers also visit Monocacy Battlefield, the Civil War Medicine Museum, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, and enjoy a full-day outdoor excursion biking the C & O Canal.
Jul 27-31, 2026
Everyday Heroes: How Ordinary Americans Changed the Nation
This camp highlights the incredible stories of individuals who made an extraordinary difference. Through engaging exploration, campers discover the courage, character, and civic virtue that shaped pivotal moments in American history — and see how everyday actions can lead to meaningful change. This inspiring experience encourages participants to recognize the hero within themselves. Campers also visit Schifferstadt Architectural Museum in Frederick, MD, explore Gettysburg, PA, and enjoy a canoe trip.
Families can register for one session or all three, with weeklong programs running Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Scholarships are available to help make the experience accessible.
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☎️ (540) 882-4929
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📌 Oatlands ∙ 20850 Oatlands Plantation Ln., Leesburg, VA
📌 Loudoun County
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
