Facilities
The Challenge Course…
…Is a series of outdoor elements requiring groups to solve problems by working together and sharing ideas. The elements of the course are constructed from cables stretched between trees, suspended tires, logs and/or ropes, that necessitate creative solutions. Low or ground level elements focus on group initiatives, and high elements offer individuals the opportunity to negotiate elements as high as 30 feet in the air while secured by a safety rope. The typical Challenge Course experience begins with a progression of ice breaking activities and a spotting/trust building sequence. These exercises will be followed by a combination of elements that your instructor deems appropriate for your group. Throughout your group exercises, the “challenge by choice” philosophy will empower you and your team to make your own decisions. The degree and extent of participation always remains the individual’s choice. By the time your experience on Stony Acres’ 35-element course is complete, your group will notice improved communication, greater leadership skills, and a better ability to confront difficulties. The combination of these skills will bring your group closer together and make them more effective when they return to the workplace. In the Spring of 2008 Stony Acres added several Universally Accessible Elements to the existing course. This addition includes both low team building activities and high adventure opportunities for a wider range of participants. This population may include people with different abilities and younger participants.
General Grounds
When you come to Stony Acres, you’ll have the run of a 119–acre wildlife sanctuary and recreation facility. Everyone in your group will find something to enjoy. Our 1.5–acre lake has great fishing and is an excellent area for teaching canoeing. Amateur naturalists will discover fresh water springs, a bog, and streams that are great for water study programs. And hikers will find that our 2.8 miles of hiking trails are a place of discovery and home to nearly 200 species of wildlife. Additionally, our picnic shelter is a great place for group picnics and family outings. The shelter has a gas grill and seating for 72-96 people and ample recreational opportunities in the form of two horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, a frisbee (disc) golf course, and large open field.
Multipurpose Lodge
The first thing you’ll see when you drive into Stony Acres is our breathtaking lodge. Our lodge is a contemporary 6,400 square foot facility that offers your group the perfect surrounding for any type of group meeting or program. The main room, with expansive windows and scenic vistas, can accommodate more than 100 people, and there are two smaller program/meeting rooms that offer additional flexibility We also have 2 recreation rooms on the lower level that can serve as breakout rooms or be used for board and table games. A fully equipped commercial kitchen provides a variety of dining options; you can cook for yourself or we can work with you to arrange catering. When the day is through, your group can “rough it” a bit by staying overnight. The lodge has dormitory–style overnight accommodations for as many as 60 people.
Cabins
Our grounds are home to six rustic cabins that offer another option for overnight accommodations. Each 15′ X 15′ cabin is equipped with a coal stove and has bunk beds that can sleep up to eight people. Groups can use a nearby charcoal grill or the fire pit for cooking. Climbing Tower Stony Acres has a 30-foot climbing tower that provides a venue for teaching rock climbing in a controlled environment. The tower is designed for smaller groups; however, larger groups can also be accommodated when climbing is alternated with other activities such as canoeing or orienteering. The tower is perfect for beginners, but is challenging for advanced climbers as well.