Get Ready for XC

The youth runner experience will give you the confidence & a boost going into the fall cross country season. Learn new running skills. Gain knowledge that you won't get on your school team. Meet and learn from world-class coaches and experts. Run and train around experienced elite athletes. Get new ideas, tips, and inspiration that will get you prepared for the upcoming season and beyond.

Camp location

The YR Camp is located at Camp Arrah Wanna, Mt. Hood Village, Oregon.

Elevation is 1320’

To get an idea of what the terrain is like check out this drone view of the Mt. Hood Resort within 5 min of the camp. It gives you the birds eye perspective of the terrain.

Besides the running trails and the awesome camp atmosphere there are a ton of activities when we're not running such as a great swimming pool, soaking our feet in the Salmon River after a long run, & day trips to other local sites.

For families planning a vacation to Oregon there are great accommodations and resorts near the camp. Plus, Portland's blend of natural beauty and running culture can't be beat.

Portland is nestled in the Willamette Valley, right in between the rugged Pacific coastline and Mt. Hood, a mountain with so much snow the Olympic Ski Team practices there and world class snowboarders ride all summer long. On a clear day from downtown Portland you can look through the trees and see Mt. Hood off to the east and Mt. St. Helens, which is an active volcano, to the north. We gotta say, it's pretty gorgeous up here.

Oregon is also the home to some impressive running history. Companies like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour have their headquarters in Portland and roots running all through the area. Plus, south of Portland in the City of Eugene, is the home of University of Oregon and the Historic Hayward Field. There you can run on Pre's Trail and absorb the greatness.

Camp Dates And Cost

August 5-9th, 2024 | Programs: Cross Country | Age Group: 11-14 | Gender: Co-ed

Arriving at Little Crater Lake near Mt. Hood

Overnight Camp $975

Arrive Monday and depart Friday after awards at noon. That’s four nights.

Commuter $575

Arrive 7:30 AM for the morning run and stay until 8 PM for all the activities and meals.

Early Arrivals Overnight Camp + One Night $1175

Sunday afternoon you may arrive after 1 PM. This means you’ll stay for five nights and depart at noon on Friday.

*Early discount at checkout before July 13th.

What you get

Learn

Gain new running skills and race tactics from athletes and coaches who have been in the big races themselves. Get a new sense of confidence, some personal coaching, and a plan that you can start implementing the day you get back home. Get a new perspective on what you should be eating for the best performance. Insights on how to keep yourself injury free and why keeping a running journal make sense for you.

Running

There is a shake out run of 30-45 minutes before breakfast and a run in the afternoon. If you have a mileage or minutes plan that exceeds the run our coaches we’ll go out with you to fulfill your plan. Wednesday is the 9-miler at Timothy Lake. Don’t be concerned about the miles. You can drop out halfway if you’d like and it’s not a race anyway. Runners form groups based on ability and fitness so everyone fits in. On the last day we have a friendly xc race followed by awards.

Activities

Capture the flag, ultimate frisbee and other active and fun games are ongoing. If you need some chill time there are board games in our lodge. Evenings include working on running journals, discussions, games, movies, smoothie bar, and skit night. There is no shortage of fun!

What to pack for camp

water bottle
running shorts
plenty of socks
running shirts
running pants
sweatshirt, warm clothing (it can get cold, especially at night)
light running jacket
2 pairs of running shoes (regular training shoes + a pair suitable for trails)
sunscreen, chap stick, hat
pajamas
swimsuit
jeans/"Regular" clothing (not required) but if the runner feels like getting out of running gear
notebook and pen
coin-operated laundry units available (no one has ever used them but they exist)
Flashlight and batteries
Personal items such as toothpaste & shampoo
Light backpack for our trail runs if you have one.
Optional - Sunglasses
Towel(s)
Sleeping Bag - There is NO BEDDING provided at this camp. If you're flying in we can provide a sleeping bag & pillow for you. Please let us know ahead of time.
Mosquito Repellent (hasn’t been much of a problem in past years)
Light rain jacket.....it's August and we don't expect any rain but sometimes mother nature lets a few drops fall down just because she can.

*Spending money-if your camper will be at the airport they will probably need some money for snacks. We’ll have some YR Gear for sale on the last day of camp. The snack bar at night is free at Mt. Hood.

Camp itinerary

Sunday - Early Arrivals after 4 pm

Monday - The rest of the camper sign in between 10:30 am-noon

Basic Daily Schedule

7:00 am - Wake up

7:20 am - Morning Run- Drills

8:30 am - Breakfast

9:15 am - Speakers

11:00 - Activity

12:30 - Lunch

1:15 - Guest Speakers:

2:00 Activity

3:00 - Afternoon Run

4:00 - Swim Time

5:00 - Free Time

5:30 - Dinner

6:30 - Phone time

7:00 Running Journals

8:00 - Movie-Discussions-Skit-Fun-Bonfire-S’mores

Friday at 10:00 will be a 3000-meter xc race, awards, and depart.

Camp info

There are some opportunties for volunteers and paid leadership positions. Send your resume and interest to dank@youthrunner.com
The YR Camp is located at Camp Arrah Wanna, 24075 E Arrah Wanna Blvd, Welches, OR 97067
The lodging at McKenzie was built in the 1990’s and is in great condition. Each mini lodge has a living room, kitchen and nice sleeping rooms. There is a main dining hall and gathering space, plus plenty of trails. Bonus for campers who have never caught a fish, there is a stocked pond at the camp.
Camp Arrah Wanna is at the base of Mt. Hood. The Salmon River borders and camp and Timothy Lake is where we go for our long run day.
Main Packing List +
Includes bedding and towels but you’re welcome to bring your own sleeping bag, towel and wash cloth if you’d prefer.
For the whitewater trip a second pair of water shoes or running shoes that you can get wet.