Trail Camp For Big Kids
Robbinsville, United States • 23-26 Jul 2026
Event overview
Trail Camp for Big Kids is a multi-day trail running camp held over a long weekend in July at Rattler Ford Group Campground in the Nantahala National Forest near Robbinsville, NC. The camp is for adults and includes running, team building, navigation, community service, and informal group activities around campfires. Campers may run as much or as little as they want; planned group runs are offered and groups are encouraged to stay together.
Distances offered
- 10k out-and-back on the Deep Gap Trail
- Half marathon on the Mount Mitchell Trail route
- 27 miles (listed as a marathon option) with 17,000 ft of elevation
These event options are listed as open to ages 18+.
Schedule and logistics
Typical weekend structure includes arrival and camp setup, a Friday group shakeout run on the Joyce Kilmer Lower Loop Trail, a longer Saturday with multiple trail route choices, and a flexible Sunday with checkout at 11am. Some breakfasts are provided; most lunches and dinners are camper responsibility. Parking is limited; organizers note parking may be 10-12 miles away at the Nantahala headquarters and recommend carpooling.
What to bring
Bathrooms, showers, and running water are available. Campers are asked to bring firewood, shelter (tent/car/hammock), sunscreen and bug spray, hydration, running nutrition, sleeping gear, personal dinnerware, and optional items such as trekking poles and a bathing suit for a river ice bath. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.