Leadership Two, ages 15-16

L2 campers running towards Marshall Point Light HouseStep into your leadership capacity through time with peers on exciting adventures. From the seashore to the rivers of northern Maine, this 3-week program fosters growth and memory-making that last a lifetime.

Campers begin their three-week program by forming their group, building trust, and practicing (or learning) canoeing skills to ensure safer trips on the water and as a community. This peer group, with two experienced leaders, forms a pod that all will come to depend on.

High Island and the St. George Peninsula

The first weekend of the program provides a chance for L2s to put their skills to the test. The group ventures down the St. George Peninsula, learning the history of that waterway. High Island on the outer edge of Tenants Harbor is where the group will land for their first trip. In preparation for the trip, all the packing and logistics are done by the L2s! In taking charge, they will learn focus, planning, and independence, as well as being able to create a unique and memorable experience, and they will experience the rewards of a trip that’s all their own.

Campers' silhouettes against the sunset

Following the way of historic canoe guides up north

Upon return to camp, the group reflects on their Island experience, taking note of the challenges and opportunities, as well as highlights. It’s a quick turnaround before heading off up north to the West Branch of the Penobscot River.

Back at Camp

Back at camp, L2 continues with more intense and immersed leadership training. Participants lead activities for overnight campers, practice role modeling, hold discussions on diversity, and build on leadership and group skills in advanced team-building workshops. During this time they become a “counselor for a day,” spending 24 hours helping to plan camp activities, sharing cabin duties with counseling staff, and getting a taste of the responsibility that comes with being a counselor.

L2 canoe group photo

One of the final steps of the L2 program is a full-day service project. Whatever the L2 project is, it’s BIG, and whether it’s building a bridge, creating a new trail, or crafting new benches for the campfire circle, the L2 project is always sure to leave a lasting monument to the teamwork and efforts of every group.

“At Tanglewood, my self-confidence, leadership, and faith in myself and others grow in abundance” — leadership camper

Leadership 2 is a 3-week-long program.

Note: L1 participation is not required to be an L2, but we do ask for a written letter or email describing your expectations for the program. What would you like to accomplish or get from your participation in this program? Please include your letter with the registration form or email it to extension.tanglewood4h@maine.edu. Accommodations can be made if writing is a concern.

Ages: 15-16                   Cost: $2600                  Packing List

Program Dates:

Weeks 6-8: July 27-August 14, 2025