Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Food Like?
It is GOOD! By operating out of basecamps we offer quality, fresh ingredients with a wide variety of options. We are able to serve those who may have special dietary needs such as gluten-free and vegetarians. Students will also have the opportunity to eat “out” a couple of times together at local restaurants.
Blog: Good Food Means Happy Teenagers
"Our daughter loved the food and still talks about it!" -Christine, parent from North Haven, CT
Will I Have Friends?
What makes our trips special are the relationships and shared experiences with other team members. Our staff are trained and care about group relationships just as much as the adventure activities. Students develop christian community, take on new responsibilities, gain independence and an appreciation of God’s creation through daily discussions, devotions, earned trust and the beauty of nature that surrounds them.
“My daughter went into the trip not knowing anyone. Within hours, she became so close with everyone and has made lifelong friends." -Jennifer, parent from Jupiter, FL
What Will I Learn?
Students will grow in many ways. Depending on the adventure they choose, they will learn technical skills such as: kayaking, cooking/or backcountry cooking, travel, camping, surfing, wildlife safety, orienteering, tie knots, yoga, and much more.
Just by the very nature of this experience we know students will gain a greater understanding of how strong they are, and how wonderful it is to be in community with one another. We hope that each team member grows in their understanding that they are good and have a lot to offer to others and the world.
With the support and love of the staff and fellow team members we will be reminded of how much we are loved by God. Students will learn to see God as a creator, and will go home with an understanding that they have been created to live a life full of purpose and adventure.
Created for Adventure is not a wilderness therapy or drug rehab-program. Our staff are trained for a specific type of program, and are not trained in therapy, or behavioral challenges/drug addictions, etc.
Can Graduating Seniors Register for Teen Adventure Trips?
Yes! Graduating seniors may register for any Teen Adventure Trip. Surprise your graduate with the gift of adventure before they move on to their next chapter in life.
What Kind of Trip Leaders Do You Hire?
All staff are selected through a rigorous selection process including background checks, experience level, references, face-to-face interviews, and much more. Our staff closely align with our mission and statement of faith. Our team of staff want to be a part of a campers faith journey, and help guide them on incredible adventures.
"The guides reflect the (Created for Adventure) mission to provide a safe, once in a lifetime experience and were gifted in their ability to foster teamwork and self-confidence through the teachings of Christ.” -Natalie, Hendersonville, NC
Are These Trips Safe?
Our policies and procedures follow best practices and industry standards when it comes to Risk Management. Health and safety, staff ratios, student management, vendor selection, and other health and safety regulations. There are many levels of protection we have in place including staff selection and training, vendor requirements, knowledge of location, communication of local authorities, and student selection.
We have a strong history and relationship with all of our vendors. Each of them have many years of operating experience with a stellar safety record, are insured, and follow all state and federal requirements (inspections, certifications, training). We follow ACA best practices and many years of experience when developing and facilitating these experiences.
We expect that students follow direction, be a positive team member, and participate fully in all aspects of their adventure. A lot of the risk management is up to the student. We do interview students before we leave on the trip. With the completion of a Health History form, and a positive discussion with the student, we seek to have a team that creates a safe travel experience.
Who Will Greet My Child at the Airport?
A staff member will be at the airport to greet campers who may be traveling on their own. You will be required to arrive at the airport during a designated time frame. Our staff will try to meet the students at the gate. If this is not possible, we will coordinate via cell phone our meeting location inside the airport. Our staff will constantly check for flight delays or changes in travel plans. Students are expected to call their parents as soon as they land to confirm safe arrival.
How Will I Know What To Pack?
Each participant will receive a packing list in their parent information guidebook. There are items that are required to bring on trips to ensure safe and comfortable adventures. Bathing suits that are acceptable include: a one piece or tankini.
What Is Included in the Price of the Trip?
Most food, overland travel, lodging, all activities, and group gear. Not included: airfare, personal gear, and a couple of meals out (including travel day meals).
Are the Adventure Activities Beginner-Friendly?
Yes! All activities offer experiences for first-time and experienced adventurers. Some activities on our expeditions do require a level of fitness, and are meant to challenge and instill an adventurous spirit.
Are Cell Phones Allowed?
Created for Adventure offers a technology-free environment. We have set an environment where new friendships can blossom, and each student has a unique and special outdoor experience.
We do suggest that campers travel with a cell phone to and from the destinations. Staff will collect phones and all electronic devices that connect to the internet on the first day of their trip. Before we collect cell phones/devices, trip leaders will ensure that campers have checked in with their parents.
If students would like to take pictures, we ask that they bring a separate camera other than their cell phone.
Our trip leaders will have cell phones if they are needed to be reached in cased of an emergency. They will also be posting photos on our Facebook and Instagram pages throughout the trip so parents can get a glimpse of their amazing adventures!
"Our daughter had so much fun and said she didn’t miss her phone at all! A wonderful, life-changing adventure for sure." -Shana, parent from Kennesaw, GA
What Does Faith-Based Adventure Travel mean?
Students will travel to beautiful places, and will gain a better understanding of God’s love for them. Our level of service, care and love for your child is rooted in the person and character of Jesus.
Students will have opportunities to strengthen their faith through morning devotions and evening small group time. Campers will go on incredible adventures and try new things! This experience allows them to get away from daily distractions and spend time in God’s beautiful creation.
What We Believe
We are not associated with a specific denomination. We believe God created the world and all of us in it. We believe God loves us unconditionally. We believe Jesus is the son of God. We believe we glorify God by loving others and living a life full of adventure.
Join us on incredible adventures as we seek a greater understanding of how much God loves us and how great it is to love other people.
"I have come in order that you might have life - life in all its fullness." John 10:10 GNT
Covid Information
We are happy to share we have successfully operated all our summer 2021 trips completely COVID-free.
Created for Adventure is committed to safety and best industry practices that guide all our operations. The health and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority.
CFA operates programs in many different environments and locations across the United States. Each of these offer their own set of risks and rewards. Traveling in the backcountry, in wilderness areas, seashores, rivers, and many other environments come with inherent risks, and now of course we live in a world with COVID-19.
COVID-19 comes with added concerns and logistical challenges, but Created for Adventure has the preparation, training and the best practices implemented to keep our campers safe. With your help we look forward to another great summer of safe, adventurous travel.
Providing the Safest Possible Experience
Moving forward, we will continue to consult with medical professionals, industry leaders and others to create the safest possible experience. CFA is constantly researching, examining, consulting reputable resources to guide our policies. These resources include:
- Federal, state, and local public health experts
- The American Camping Association
- Peer Organizations
- Medical Advisors
- Local Governmental Agencies
Potential Changes in Operations
COVID is an ever-evolving situation. It is possible that best practices and trip logistics change (even last-minute) due to recommendations from our medical advisors, industry leaders, and government officials. CFA will decide when and under what conditions trips will operate using their advice and our best judgment.
Precautions prior to Arrival
Do not travel to your CFA Trip if you have COVID-19 symptoms (cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell), have in the past 14 days been in close contact with someone suspected or confirmed as having COVID-19, or if you are confirmed or suspected as having COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
We ask that you follow these steps to lessen exposure to coronavirus for 2 weeks prior to your trip:
- Even if vaccinated, you must provide a negative test for COVID-19 taken no more than 24 hours before the trip start date.
- Avoid close contact with large crowds
- Frequent hand washing
- Monitor for COVID-19 symptoms
- Provide a negative test for COVID-19 taken no more than 24 hours before the trip start date. Campers do NOT have to get a PCR/molecular test prior to their adventure. At-home molecular or antigen test (including rapid tests) will be accepted. Created for Adventure will NOT require proof of result; rather, we as that families honor this requirement and call us immediatley if their child tests positive 828-577-2743.
COVID Vaccine:
We believe that this decision for vaccine should be decided between you and your doctor. Please consult with your doctor prior to the trip if a COVID vaccine is right for you.
CFA does not require that students obtain a vaccine. However, we will follow all local, state, and federal laws. If at some point vaccines are mandated for air travel, entry into states or other restrictions, CFA guidelines will reflect these laws.
While traveling on Check-in Day
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Carry and use hand sanitizers
During your CFA Trip
Upon arrival, we will monitor students' health. If anyone shows signs and symptoms of COVID-19, we will separate that individual from the group and seek medical advice. Parents will be contacted immediately. We ask all students to bring washable face masks and hand sanitizer with you.
Unexpected Symptoms or Illness on a CFA Trip
If a student develops symptoms of COVID-19, they will be isolated from the group. Staff will seek medical advice and CFA staff will contact parents immediately. We will follow our COVID-19 illness guidelines, which may include removal from the trip, though this may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Questions? Request more information today!