Boundary Waters - Camp Widji Adventure

Each year, EXPO’s fifth grade class calls the North Woods their home. 

For five days each spring, students are immersed in the beauty of the Boundary Waters and the challenges of independence.  This annual trip to Camp Widjiwagan has been a capstone experience for EXPO students since at least 1997

Over the course of the trip, students embark on amazing adventures, including: 

• A night hike where students learn about the night sky and keep an eye out for the northern lights
• A full-day nature walk where students eat on the trail and visit all of the capstone wonders that the camp has to offer
• Opportunities for a polar plunge 

Mixed into all these activities, students get to learn about the native species from bears to wolves that make their home in the region.

Throughout the week, we empower students to become more and more self reliant. They have to make it to their study groups on time, follow their schedule independently, and overcome the challenges (and sometimes fears) of being away from home. Giving students the opportunity to keep their own schedule during this week is great preparation for middle school.

Students also participate in family-style meals each day, giving them regular chances to connect with and be supported by the full group.

“This trip was life changing! They teach you a lot, the food is great, the lake is awesome, and the teachers are the best! You learn plenty of things about nature.” -Torin G., 2025

“It was one of the first times I got to be away from my parents for a long time, and my favorite thing on the trip was the cold plunge! It was super fun.” -Larkin K., 2025

Our Boundary Waters trip is always scheduled for late March. This year, the fifth grade class will journey to Camp Widjiwagan March 23-27, 2026. Students will bring home information after Winter Break about how to get ready for the trip. Parents: We usually need chaperones, so look for information about how you can join us in the same packet!

If you have any questions, please reach out to either your student's classroom teacher, science teacher Perry Anderson (perry.anderson@spps.org), or school social worker Brendan Leyden (brendan.leyden@spps.org).