3 Camp Highlights

The 2025 Yangmingshan Youth Camp features 3 sessions specifically designed for teens aged 13-18, with the majority being junior high students aged 13-16. This 3-day, 2-night adventure takes place at Yangmingshuwu, where participants deepen their understanding of Yangmingshan's rich ecological environment through engaging indoor lessons and exciting outdoor activities.

Day one includes a guided tour of Yangmingshuwu and a visit to Zhuzihu, the original home of Taiwan's famous Ponlai rice. Participants become citizen scientists, competing to catch invasive American crayfish in an environmental conservation effort. On day two, campers master offline mapping techniques before embarking on an epic group expedition to conquer Qixing Mountain, followed by a scenic descent to Lengshuikeng. Evening brings a captivating astronomy class focusing on summer constellations, allowing participants to drift off to sleep while stargazing.

The third morning features exhilarating tree climbing technical training—an activity that's both thrilling and challenging. Many participants become completely captivated, eagerly requesting multiple attempts to perfect their skills.

Day three's tree climbing training proves incredibly popular among participants

Day three's tree climbing training proves incredibly popular among participants

Reality Brings Unexpected Challenges

While the descriptions paint an idyllic picture, recent years have brought increasingly frequent challenges that can create tension between organizers and participants. Notable issues include participants attempting to scale Qixing Mountain in sandals, significantly increasing safety risks on the notoriously slippery trail sections.

Inadequate hydration preparation presents another common problem, with some participants bringing merely half a bottle or single bottle of water, while others arrive completely unprepared, depending entirely on fellow campers' generosity throughout the trek. Experienced hikers often step up as heroes, shouldering 2-liter hydration packs and sharing water with struggling teammates upon reaching the summit.

Equipment shortfalls also create complications when participants arrive without proper hiking backpacks, unable to carry essential items like water bottles. Fortunately, strong peer support emerges as groups pool resources and collectively tackle these obstacles.

Despite these challenges, success rates remain remarkably high—across all three camp sessions, only a handful of participants failed to reach the summit, while the overwhelming majority triumphantly stood atop Qixing Mountain. The return journey showcases incredible determination, with some participants pushing themselves to complete the full trek back to Lengshuikeng. Staff members provide continuous support and encouragement, honoring each individual's commitment to the challenge.

Mutual encouragement and teamwork ultimately lead everyone to Qixing Mountain's summit together

Mutual encouragement and teamwork ultimately lead everyone to Qixing Mountain's summit together

Essential: Parents Must Read Pre-Camp Communications

Thorough preparation begins with carefully reading all instructional materials and confirming email communications. This ensures participants fully understand activity requirements and equipment specifications, creating optimal conditions for a successful experience. Parents should also remain available for calls from Yangmingshan Headquarters to complete guardian information requirements, streamlining administrative processes for everyone involved. Comprehensive advance preparation transforms the entire experience into a safe, enjoyable adventure that exceeds expectations.

Most importantly, attention to these registration details ensures every child's mountain adventure becomes an unforgettable and enriching journey!