Meet the Heart of Our Camp – The Ancient Traditions Team

At Ancient Traditions Summer Camp in Whitefish, MT, our team is the heartbeat of every child’s experience. From wilderness guides to creative educators, each staff member brings a wealth of experience, warmth, and enthusiasm. We carefully select mentors who are passionate about outdoor education, child development, and fostering a safe, inspiring environment where kids can grow, explore, and thrive.

  • Lindsey Jean

    Founder

    Lindsey created this camp with a heartfelt mission: to offer the kind of summer experience she dreamed of for her own son. When she couldn’t find a program in the valley that truly inspired confidence, creativity, and connection, she decided to build one—for her family and for yours.

    This camp was founded on the belief that children thrive when they are free to play, explore nature, build meaningful friendships, and grow into themselves in a supportive, empowering environment. Our programming is intentionally designed to nurture self-confidence, curiosity, resilience, and joy.

    From the first day of summer to the last, our goal is for every child to leave feeling more proud of who they are, more confident in their passions, and more excited about life. Here, it's not just about fun—it’s about growth, discovery, and loving the journey.

  • Ally Jones

    Camp Director:

    Born and raised in Montana, Ally has always had a deep love for the outdoors. From camping and hiking to fishing and hunting, she grew up embracing nature in every season—and she still does today. Currently building her dream home near Glacier National Park, Ally takes every opportunity to soak in the mountains she calls home.

    During the school year, Ally serves as a dedicated school counselor, bringing with her over a decade of teaching experience and 16 years of coaching. She believes strongly in the power of connection, movement, and time in nature to help kids thrive—both emotionally and physically.

    Although new to Ancient Traditions Summer Camp, Ally brings five years of camp leadership experience, along with a background in hunter education and wilderness survival. She’s passionate about creating joyful, enriching opportunities for kids to explore, grow, and gain confidence outdoors.

    For Ally, camp is more than just fun—it’s a chance for kids to recharge, build friendships, and feel grounded in who they are. Her thoughtful, high-energy leadership ensures every child feels welcomed, supported, and free to be themselves.

  • Heather Dolan

    Senior Councilor:

    Originally from Pennsylvania, Heather has called the Flathead Valley home since 1998. She holds degrees in Spanish, Elementary Education, and Guidance Counseling, along with specialized training in Pre-K Montessori. Her background reflects a deep commitment to helping children grow through curiosity, creativity, and connection.

    Heather has traveled extensively through Mexico and South America, teaching in language schools and soaking in the richness of diverse cultures. Locally, she’s brought her talents to a wide range of learning environments—including Bigfork Middle School, Children’s House Montessori, Stumptown Art Studio, KME, and as a private homeschool teacher.

    She also spent time working with Ravenwood, the beloved outdoor summer program that served Flathead Valley families for over 20 years—an experience that deepened her passion for experiential, nature-based learning.

    When she’s not guiding kids through hands-on adventures, Heather enjoys traveling, gardening, kayaking, camping, and exploring wild places with her daughter. Her calm presence, creative spirit, and love of the natural world make her a favorite among campers of all ages.

  • Storm

    Wildheart Leader

    Originally from Eureka, Montana, Storm grew up riding horses, exploring the mountains, and embracing life outdoors. She has a deep love for movement and creativity—whether it’s hiking, dancing, painting with watercolors, or wrangling horses.

    Storm recently returned to Montana after spending time in Arizona, where she worked closely with students and served as a horse wrangler. Her background reflects a passion for working with young people, animals, and nature, and she brings that enthusiasm to every part of camp life.

    With travel experiences spanning over eight countries, Storm carries a broad worldview and a grounded appreciation for the Montana wilderness she calls home. She’s currently exploring meaningful career paths that align with her values and joy for helping others grow.

    Storm’s energy, warmth, and adventurous spirit make her a natural fit for Ancient Traditions Summer Camp, where she’s excited to create unforgettable outdoor experiences for kids.

  • Bridger

    Nature Skills Mentor

    From a young age, he has been deeply observant of the natural world, spending countless hours exploring the woods and creeks near his childhood home. With a naturally analytical mind, he’s devoted years to learning the names and behaviors of the plants, fish, birds, and insects throughout Montana and beyond.

    He loves to travel and immerse himself in new environments—both culturally and ecologically—seeking deeper understanding of how people live in relationship with the land.

    Grateful to call the Flathead Valley home, he believes that access to wild places is a birthright. His philosophy centers on the idea that humans are not separate from nature, but are meant to engage with, play in, and care for it.

    He actively supports local organizations focused on conservation, food accessibility, and outdoor education. He serves on the board of the Flathead Audubon Society and has worked as a youth instructor with Ravenwood Outdoor Learning Center for several summers.

    Beyond his work as a naturalist, his passions include competitive snowboarding, whitewater kayaking, herbalism, music, and a wide range of creative arts.

    He loves working with kids of all ages and is excited for another summer filled with games, growth, and nature-based learning.

  • Cheyenne

    Adventure Buddy

    Cheyenne is a true nature enthusiast who feels most at home in the great outdoors. One of her favorite places to explore is Glacier National Park, where she finds endless inspiration in the beauty of the mountains and trails.

    With a background that includes running the summer zipline program at Big Mountain Resort and supporting clients at Iron Horse, Cheyenne brings both experience and a passion for adventure to everything she does. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her rock climbing, spending time on the water, or playing with animals—always soaking in the joy of the wild.

    Cheyenne has been a high achiever from a young age, maintaining a 4.0 GPA since middle school and balancing three or more AP classes at a time. She has also taken college-level courses at the local community college, showcasing her dedication to learning and personal growth.

    This summer, Cheyenne is taking a well-deserved break from academics to spend time outdoors, explore new adventures, and share her energy and creativity with our campers. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and love for play make her a wonderful addition to our team!

  • Silken

    Free Spirit Counselor

    A wild heart and a free spirit, Silken Taylor lives life with intention, joy, and deep presence. She’s an avid traveler with a special love for Europe and spends her winters snowboarding in the mountains, chasing powder and adventure. But beyond the thrill-seeking, Silken embodies something even more powerful—love, connection, and a grounded, peaceful energy that radiates wherever she goes.

    Kids and animals are naturally drawn to her gentle, open-hearted spirit. Whether she’s sharing a quiet moment in nature or leading playful, spontaneous adventures, Silken creates a space where others feel safe, seen, and valued. Her calm presence, vibrant joy, and zest for life make her an unforgettable light in any setting.

  • Annaka

    Camp Hero

    Annaka Hillukka brings warmth, energy, and a love for working with children to her role as a junior counselor at Ancient Traditions Summer Camp. Raised between the wild beauty of Alaska and the heartland of Minnesota, Annaka has grown up with a deep appreciation for nature and adventure.

    She thrives in the outdoors and loves spending her free time hiking, exploring, and enjoying sunshine-filled days with friends and family. Whether she’s out on a trail or spending the afternoon shopping, Annaka brings a joyful and lighthearted presence to every space she enters.

    With over three years of experience as a nanny, Annaka has a natural talent for caring for children. She’s patient, playful, and genuinely enjoys building meaningful connections with the kids she works with. Her ability to create a safe and nurturing environment makes her a trusted and valued part of the camp team.

    Annaka is excited to spend her summer helping campers grow, explore, and make lifelong memories in nature. Her upbeat spirit and compassionate heart make her a favorite among campers and staff alike.

  • Kendra

    Fun Facilitator

    Kendra is an enthusiastic and friendly junior counselor who brings warmth, positivity, and a love for the outdoors to Ancient Traditions Summer Camp. Originally from Minnesota, she recently graduated high school and made the exciting move to Montana with friends to begin a new chapter full of adventure and growth.

    Kendra has always been drawn to summertime and the joy of being outside. Whether she’s hiking, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun, she feels most alive in nature. Her easygoing and approachable personality makes her a natural at connecting with kids and helping them feel at home in the camp environment.

    She also has a passion for travel and loves spending quality time with her friends and family. Her sense of curiosity and openness to new experiences have shaped her into someone who embraces every opportunity with enthusiasm.

    Kendra is thrilled to be part of the Ancient Traditions team and looks forward to a summer filled with connection, exploration, and plenty of fun. Her energy and care make her a valuable presence at camp and a trusted friend to the campers she mentors.

  • Kiana

    Kindness Keeper

    Kiana Hillukka brings warmth, energy, and a natural love for children to everything she does. Raised in Minnesota in a big family with both younger and older siblings, she’s always been surrounded by connection, creativity, and the joy of being part of a bustling home. Her upbringing nurtured a deep appreciation for working with kids, and she thrives in environments filled with laughter, learning, and play.

    Kiana is passionate about the outdoors and lives for adventure—whether it’s hiking through nature, hitting the gym, or exploring new places through travel. She's also a dedicated athlete, with a strong love for volleyball and hockey. Her active lifestyle is matched by a vibrant imagination and an enthusiasm for creating meaningful experiences, especially with young people. Whether she’s leading a group through the woods or joining in on a game, Kiana brings excitement, positivity, and heart to every moment. goes here

  • Mila

    Jr Counselor

    Mila is a passionate and energetic junior counselor who brings a bright smile, a big heart, and boundless energy to Ancient Traditions Summer Camp. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, she spends her summers in Montana, where she thrives in the great outdoors and loves building connections with campers of all ages.

    Mila is a straight-A student who balances her academic excellence with a full schedule of extracurriculars. A dedicated multi-sport athlete, she plays basketball, volleyball, and soccer at school and competes in travel volleyball throughout the year. Her discipline and teamwork on the court carry over into her leadership at camp, where she’s always ready to jump into a game or encourage kids to try something new.

    In addition to sports, Mila is a talented musician. She plays the trumpet in the Charlotte Youth Symphony and finds joy in expressing herself through music. Her creativity also shines in the arts and crafts cabin, where she loves helping campers bring their imaginations to life.

    Whether she’s leading a game, singing around the fire, or just being her silly, joyful self, Mila is deeply committed to creating a fun, safe, and inclusive space for campers. She’s most at home when she’s outside—exploring, laughing, and learning alongside the kids.

    Mila’s favorite part of camp is witnessing the spark in a camper’s eyes when they discover something new about themselves or the world around them. Her natural leadership, compassion, and enthusiasm make her a beloved part of the Ancient Traditions team.

  • Ethan

    Jr Counselor

    Ethan Bock is a dedicated and energetic 14-year-old with a vibrant passion for learning, music, and the outdoors. Known for his curiosity and enthusiasm, Ethan brings a thoughtful presence and strong work ethic to everything he takes on.

    A straight-A student, Ethan excels academically and is always eager to expand his knowledge across a wide range of subjects. He is also a talented trombone player, performing regularly and pursuing his musical interests with discipline and joy. Whether he’s attending operas, practicing music, or exploring new ideas, Ethan approaches life with an open mind and a creative spirit.

    Outside the classroom, Ethan thrives in the outdoors and loves staying active. He enjoys playing sports, adventuring with friends, and traveling to new places that expand his perspective and deepen his appreciation for different cultures and environments.

    Ethan is excited to be part of Ancient Traditions Summer Camp, where he contributes his positive attitude, sense of responsibility, and natural ability to connect with others. He especially enjoys helping younger campers feel welcomed and inspired, and looks forward to a summer full of laughter, learning, and meaningful experiences in nature.