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R.A.D. Camps, a trusted leader in outdoor youth adventure in Central Oregon since 2008, is expanding its offerings for 2026 with new programs designed to serve children ages 3–17. In addition to the core R.A.D. Adventure program, these new offerings provide even more dynamic and developmentally meaningful opportunities for children to explore, play, and learn.
Known for its screen-free, unstructured approach to outdoor adventure, R.A.D. Camps blend free play, environmental education, and immersive nature experiences to spark creativity and confidence in young people across the region.
New programming for 2026 includes:
- R.A.D. Nest: A Nature-Based Daycare for Ages 3–4
- Youth Rock Climbing Programs
- Cycling Adventures, in partnership with Cycle Oregon
- R.A.D. Studio: A Hands-On Art & Design Lab
“At R.A.D. Camps, our mission is to deliver unparalleled adventure experiences for families in Central Oregon, grounded in sustainability and education, fostering a lifelong love for the outdoors through free play and exploration.” — Chance Caruso, Owner, R.A.D. Camps
The newly launched R.A.D. Nest, a nature-based daycare program, introduces R.A.D.’s philosophy of exploration and outdoor learning to its youngest adventurers. Designed specifically for ages 3–4, this gentle “soft start” program emphasizes social development, curiosity, and confidence through daily outdoor experiences, while offering the safety of a homebase at Seven Peaks Campus.
In response to growing interest in skill-based outdoor programming, R.A.D. Camps is also launching dedicated rock climbing and cycling programs. These offerings provide structured instruction in technical skills while maintaining the organization’s core commitment to safety, stewardship, and fun. Participants build resilience, coordination, and teamwork while exploring Central Oregon’s natural landscapes.
The new R.A.D. Studio, an art and design lab, complements outdoor programming by giving kids a space to build, create, and experiment through hands-on projects. Each week, the studio offers new projects (using professional tools from 3D printers and laser cutters to pottery wheels and textiles) to foster imagination and problem-solving while reinforcing R.A.D.’s belief that meaningful play drives lifelong learning.
With highly trained guides (including CPR/First Aid and Wilderness First Responder certifications), flexible scheduling options, and access to more than 50 locations across Deschutes and Willamette National Forests, R.A.D. Camps is a premier choice for families seeking enriching youth programs in Central Oregon.
Registration for 2026 programs is now open. Bend Chamber of Commerce members can use the code BENDCHAMBER26 for a 60% discount on first-time R.A.D. Camps registration.
Families can learn more about daycare, specialty programs, summer camps, and teen leadership opportunities by visiting www.radcamps.com.
And for a behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of a R.A.D. camper, check out the segment “No screens, no schedule, and no shortage of dirt,” from Central Oregon Daily News: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJbv1sJZPg4
