Verdun Adventure Bound

VISION

A more collaborative community that fosters empowered, adventurous individuals.

MISSION

To provide connection to nature, oneself, and community through experiential learning.

History

Founded in 1999 by Dr. David Snyder, Verdun Adventure Bound has spent 26 years empowering youth and adults through inclusive, experiential programming focused on leadership, personal growth, and community connection. Serving Culpeper, Fauquier, and Rappahannock counties, our 67-acre Rixeyville campus features a low and high rope challenge course, adaptive high ropes, zip lines, camping, summer camps, and scenic event spaces.

We proudly offer accessible programming for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, and ensure financial barriers never stand in the way of participation. Verdun also supports those in recovery through initiatives like Project SOAR and the Run for Your Life 5K.

Beyond our core programs, Verdun is a vibrant community hub—hosting weddings, live performances, and our Echo in the Pines summer concert series with on-site camping. Each December, we welcome thousands for our beloved holiday light show and winter festival.

Rooted in community and driven by purpose, Verdun remains a place where transformation happens—where every person is seen, supported, and empowered.

Current Notable Verdun Programs

Project SOAR (Success in Overcoming Adversity in Recovery) is a free program designed to provide adults in recovery the support they need to not only remain sober but to grow mentally, emotionally, and physically in their recovery. This is a transition program tailored to fill the gap for individuals who have overcome their addiction and are seeking to remain clean and sober as they transition to daily life.

The Groundwork Project is designed to build both the soft and hard skills necessary for youth to enter the workforce. The program is offered at no cost to youth ages 16-24 with an identified barrier preventing them from entering the workplace. This program engages youth in experiential learning activities where they can learn and practice the skills needed to be successful in a career.

Too Good for Drugs is a program designed to build resiliency in students grades K-8 in our area. This program typically runs the duration of the school year. Verdun staff visit several schools and the Fauquier Community Child Care after school program where they use fun and engaging activities to teach lessons promoting effective communication, self-esteem, decision-making, resiliency, tobacco use prevention, and more. 

GUIDING PRINCIPLES 

• Safety: Physical and emotional well-being is foremost and resolute in all that we do.

• Commitment: Verdun will maintain a growth mindset seeking to continually improve ourselves and our offerings. 

• Respect: We believe that every individual has value, and we consistently work to remove barriers and make programs accessible.

• Humility: We will always put the needs of others before our own. We recognize the value of our environment and commit to being excellent stewards of the physical and natural resources provided to us.

• Fun: Joy is a trademark of Verdun’s approach.

Testimonials

“Verdun changed how I see myself and others. It gave me the chance to step outside my comfort zone and truly lead—not just in theory, but in real, challenging situations. I learned the importance of teamwork, trust, and recognizing the unique strengths in every person. These are lessons I could never have learned in a classroom. Verdun gave me more than just skills—it gave me confidence, purpose, and a deeper understanding of what it means to lead.”

– Fauquier High School Student

“Dear Verdun, thank you for helping me overcome my fears and turn them into fun! I loved my whole experience and wish I could replay it all. Everyone was so kind and accepting. Thanks for your kindness!”

- 5th Grade Student 

“Dear Verdun Team, thank you for the fabulous kickoff to our Leadership Fauquier retreat! The challenge exercise created a great opportunity for the cohorts to begin connecting. Although I felt some anxiety about the zipline, your team and the other cohorts offered encouragement that eased my fears. I left Verdun feeling very proud. 

- Leadership Fauquier Participant 

SUMMER CAMP!

THE MUDDY TRACKS EXPERIENCE AT VERDUN ADVENTURE BOUND!