Over the next few months, we’ll be introducing you to our summer staff for 2017. Meet Meghan, who will be joining us as a first-year counselor leading backpacking trips this summer! 

What is your name?

Meghan Belanger

Where are you from?

I am from Sheboygan, Wisconsin! I am currently living Valdosta Georgia where I am working on my master’s degree.

What program(s) will you be leading at camp, and how did you get your experience in that area?

At camp this summer I will be leading ropes course activities as well as backpacking trips. As a child I attended a camp in Michigan where my love for the outdoors was brought to life. It is where I learned how to water ski, rock climb, and windsurf. It was not until college where I really found my passion for the outdoors. I went backpacking for the first time in college and it is safe to say that it changed my life. I currently manage Valdosta State Universities Center for Outdoor Recreation Experiences. My job involves managing undergraduate student workers, leading trips for college students, facilitating a ropes course, and managing rental gear. When I am not outside leading trips for work you will find me outside with my dog! Much of my experience comes form the college outdoor programming although while in undergrad I worked as a canoe guide for a camp in Northern Minnesota. I am excited to work in the camp setting again and meet everyone!

What drew you to the Bar 717 Ranch?

When I was searching for a camp to work at Bar 717 stuck out to me. I was looking for a camp that had a wilderness option for the campers but also had the traditional camp programming. I also love how Bar 717 is so unplugged from the outside world!