R.A.D. Climbing
Guided outdoor climbing with introductory and progression options. Real rock, professional instruction, and room to build confidence.
Location: Smith Rock State Park
2026 age range: 8–14+
Summer 2027: Dates and eligibility details coming soon.
Skip the gym walls. We take campers directly to the world-famous Smith Rock State Park for a week of climbing, rappelling, and skill-building in a safe, small-group environment.
Climb Smith Rock. The R.A.D. Way.
World-Class Climbing
Climb where the pros climb. We operate directly in Smith Rock State Park, giving campers access to one of the most iconic climbing destinations in the world.
All Gear Included
We handle the logistics. R.A.D. provides all technical equipment—harnesses, helmets, shoes, and ropes—so campers just need to bring their courage.
Technical Skills
Beyond just climbing. Campers learn the fundamentals of knot-tying, belay commands, and climbing movement, building a foundation for a lifelong sport.
Climbing-Focused Guidance
Guides help campers learn climbing skills, practice safety habits, and build confidence on real rock.
Meet Peter
Peter
Lead Climbing Guide & Outdoor Educator
Peter brings climbing coaching and outdoor guiding experience to R.A.D. Camps. He focuses on supportive instruction that helps campers build confidence, practice technical fundamentals, and enjoy time on real rock.
His interests include climbing, mountaineering, and exploring the outdoors.
Curriculum Highlights
A Typical Climbing Week
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Day 1 (The Basics)
Gear orientation, safety checks, and top-rope belay skills at North Point.
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Day 2 (Technique)
Introduction to the GriGri and longer routes at Rope de Dope Block.
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Day 3 (Movement)
Crack climbing demos and group traverse challenges at Monument Area.
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Day 4 (The Big Hike)
Morning hike to Monkey Face (Misery Ridge or South Point) for epic views.
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Day 5 (Rappel Day & Demos)
Introduction to rappelling.
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Family Visit Details
Family-visit arrangements for Summer 2027 will be announced with the program details.
What Climbing Families Say
Parent and camper feedback from R.A.D. Climbing at Smith Rock
“Ruby loved the week at camp and was so excited with the level of challenge. We’d highly recommend climbing camp and if we are back in Bend next summer we’ll definitely be back for more.”
“I learned how to belay and became a better climber. My favorite climb was North Point and I made it to the top.”
— Katie H. and Ruby, R.A.D. Climbing family · Smith Rock / Bend, Oregon
Find Your Climbing Track
Intro Track
For first-time climbers: comfort with heights, safety basics, and fun on the rock. No prior experience is required for the introductory program.
Progression Track
For returning climbers or older beginners, with a focus on technical skills, movement technique, mock leads, and anchor-building fundamentals. Prior climbing experience is recommended.
Summer 2027: Track dates and age/experience guidance will be announced when available.
What to Pack for Climbing
Day Pack/Backpack: A comfortable backpack to carry lunch, water, and layers on the hike in.
Lunch: Pack a nutritious lunch and 2 extra snacks. Climbing Smith Rock burns serious energy—crushers get hungry!
Water Bottle (Critical): A full large water bottle
Clothing (The "Crag Ready" System):
Climbing Clothes: Comfortable athletic clothing that allows for full range of motion.
Pro Tip: Shorts or leggings should be long enough to sit comfortably under a harness (mid-thigh or longer). Short-shorts can chafe!
Approach Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or sneakers with good tread. We hike steep trails to get to the walls. No sandals or Crocs for the hike.
Layers: A light layer (fleece or windbreaker) for morning chills or windy belay ledges.
Water Clothing
Shoes / Sandals: We have the opportunity to cool off in the river! Please pack sandals with a heel strap or water shoes for wading.
Swimsuit: Board shorts or a swimsuit if you want to get wet.
Sun Protection: It is sunny at the rocks!
Sunhat (Baseball caps work best under helmets).
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen (Apply before arrival; pack extra).
OPTIONAL:
Towel: For drying off after the river.
Personal Climbing Gear: Campers may bring their own harness or climbing shoes if they have them (subject to safety inspection).
Chapstick/Lip Balm.
Provided by R.A.D. Camps:
We provide ALL technical climbing gear: Helmets, Harnesses, Climbing Shoes, Chalk, and Belay Devices.
Looking Ahead to Summer 2027
Our 2026 season has wrapped up. Camp dates, tuition, transportation, and after-care details for Summer 2027 will be announced when ready.
Explore the climbing tracks above and join our email list for updates.