John Thurman Trout Adventure Camp
June 21, 2027 - June 26, 2027 | 12-16 | $550
Spend a week in the clear, cold waters of the Smokies learning to fly fish and discovering the stream life that makes trout fishing possible.
John Thurman Trout Adventure Camp is a hands-on, science-rich fly fishing camp for youth who want to learn the sport while building an appreciation for cold-water conservation. With guidance from Trout Unlimited mentors and fly fishing experts, campers learn about fly casting and fly-tying techniques that attract fish, and practice their new skills practice while fishing in mountain streams.
Campers also explore the ecology of these waters through field-based science activities, including catching and identifying aquatic invertebrates that trout eat and how they are duplicated with flies used in fishing, live-trapping and identifying fish that live in Smoky Mountains streams, catching and identifying flying bugs that form part of a trout’s diet, and observing fish in their natural environment by snorkeling in a mountain stream.
By the end of the week, campers leave with stronger angling skills and a deeper understanding of the Smokies’ streams and the importance of protecting them.
Applications will open in early 2027. Sign up for emails to be notified when applications open.
Financial Aid: Financial support is available through Tennessee-based Trout Unlimited Chapters. Contact information for TU chapters in Tennessee is available on the Tennessee Council website.
Registration includes food and lodging in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Photos by Rich Bryant and Tom Haxby.
Cover photo by Tom Haxby.
John Thurman Trout Adventure Camp at a Glance
Date: June 21, 2027 - June 26, 2027
Ages: 12-16
Location: Tremont’s Smokies Campus
9275 Tremont Road
Townsend, TN 37882
Cost: $550
Registration includes food and lodging in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Save the date for this program, and sign up for emails from Tremont to be notified when more details are announced.
Lindsey Nguyen
Youth Summer Programs Coordinator
Here to help you get ready for camp
Sending your child to camp is an exciting adventure for campers and their grown-ups! Whether it’s their first overnight experience or they’re returning for another summer, we want you to feel confident and prepared.
Meet Lindsey Nguyen, Tremont’s Youth Summer Programs Coordinator. A lifelong lover of the Smokies, Lindsey is here to help answer your questions about camp life, preparing for your child’s stay, and what to expect along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
Explore our Summer Camp FAQ or email Lindsey with your camp questions.
YOUR HOME BASE IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS
At Tremont, the setting is part of the experience. Nestled inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our Walker Valley campus is surrounded by forest, mountain streams, and opportunities for discovery around every corner. From shared meals and cozy accommodations to spaces for learning and gathering, get a feel for the place before you arrive.
YOUR HOME BASE IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS
At Tremont, the setting is part of the experience. Nestled inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our Walker Valley campus is surrounded by forest, mountain streams, and opportunities for discovery around every corner. From shared meals and cozy accommodations to spaces for learning and gathering, get a feel for the place before you arrive.
