VALDOSTA — From June 10-14, the Rock Eagle 4-H Center in Georgia hosted an exhilarating summer camp for local 4th, 5th, and 6th graders from Lowndes County. Part of a broader initiative that draws over 8,000 children ages 9-19 to five unique 4-H centers annually, this camp is renowned for its blend of adventure, education, and fun, aiming to develop campers’ “Head, Heart, Hands and Health.”
The Georgia 4-H Summer Camp at Rock Eagle is celebrated for offering an unmatched outdoor program, the local 4-H said in a press release. Throughout the week, campers engaged in a variety of hands-on workshops and activities designed to make learning enjoyable. Highlights included archery, canoeing, entomology, forestry, wildlife, herpetology, lake ecology, crafts, hiking, and more. Swimming, canoeing, sailing, nature hikes, and plenty of recreational time ensured that the camp was packed with excitement from start to finish.
The Lowndes 4-H delegation, consisting of 100 young campers, was supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and staff. Callie Chauncey, Casey Hancock, Mason Mangham, Nathan Landrum, and Rachel Severini served as volunteers for the week, while teen leaders Drew Barnes and Joel Dixon provided guidance and support. Extension staff included Grace Chauncey, 4-H agent, Hannah Delk, 4-H program assistant, and Jacob Kalina, ANR agent.
One of the camp’s highlights was the friendly competition between different groups known as “flights.” Campers were divided into three flights — Thunderbirds, Skybirds, and Firebirds — competing in various games and activities to win the coveted eagle shield. This year, Lowndes 4-H’ers were part of the Thunderbirds, who clinched victory on Friday morning, bringing home the eagle shield in a display of teamwork and spirited enthusiasm.
Chauncey expressed her pride in the campers, saying, “Our week at Rock Eagle was filled with unforgettable experiences. The workshops and activities not only provided fun and excitement but also fostered essential life skills. Winning the eagle shield was a testament to our campers’ teamwork and spirit.”