Founder/Executive Director:

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.

Onsite Program 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.

Senior Councilor:

Sonja is part of our Leadership Team and Senior Counselors, she grew up in northern Minnesota exploring 40 acres of forests, fields, and lakes, where her love for animals and the outdoors first began.

She later worked for the U.S. Forest Service building trails in wilderness areas using pack strings of mules before eventually making her way to Montana’s Flathead Valley. Sonja has also worked as a snowboard instructor at Blacktail Mountain and spent many years as a veterinary technician caring for animals and their families.

Today, she is passionate about helping the next generation connect with the natural world. In her free time she enjoys cross-country skiing, gravel biking, paddle boarding, and working with dogs—her dog Brook Trout previously served as a certified cadaver dog for a local Search and Rescue team.

Senior Counselor

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.

Courageous Leader

Kat is a vibrant and multi-passionate individual with an infectious love for life's creative and natural wonders. With a deep appreciation for nature, animals, and arts, she brings a unique blend of interests to everything she does. You'll often find her initiating spontaneous dance parties to tracks like "Soda Pop" and "Golden," always in control of the aux and sharing her love for music and movement with those around her.

Equally at home exploring urban landscapes or immersing herself in the tranquility of nature, Kat embodies versatility and adventure. Her days off are often spent with her dogs near water, listening for different bird calls, or attending yet another concert. Travel ignites her curiosity and fuels her spirit as she seeks out new experiences wherever she goes.

At the heart of Kat's work is a profound commitment to encouraging and inspiring youth. She is passionate about creating safe spaces where young people can freely express their passions and discover their potential. With years of experience working with children ranging from 6 months to 18 years old, Kat has developed a natural ability to connect with kids of all ages. Her first summer camp experience last summer deepened her love for this work, as she formed meaningful connections with both campers and fellow counselors that continue to inspire her today.

Kat's mission is simple yet powerful: to uplift young voices, foster creativity, and help the next generation find their place in the world.

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.

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.

Adventure Friend

Cheyenne grew up spending much of her time outdoors near Yosemite, where her love for nature and animals began early. Surrounded by forests, mountains, and wide open spaces, she developed a deep appreciation for the natural world and the adventures it offers.

She enjoys a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, backpacking, cross-country skiing, and backcountry skinning. In recent years, Cheyenne has also developed a strong passion for rock climbing and exploring the backcountry, always eager to challenge herself and experience new landscapes. Her adventurous spirit has also taken her around the world, and she has traveled to several countries, gaining a broader perspective and appreciation for different cultures.

Cheyenne is currently attending college, where she is studying psychology and business. Her interest in psychology reflects her genuine curiosity about people and her desire to understand how individuals grow, learn, and thrive—something that translates beautifully into working with children.

She also brings a personal connection to camp: Cheyenne’s younger brother attends the program, and she has seen firsthand the impact that a supportive outdoor environment can have on kids. We’re incredibly excited to have her as part of the team and to share her love of adventure, nature, and exploration with our campers.

Free Spirit Counselor

She is a kind, bubbly, and positive person who truly enjoys being around others and creating a welcoming environment wherever she goes. She connects easily with children of all ages and loves spending time with them—whether that’s doing crafts, exploring outside, playing games, or simply sitting and listening to the imaginative stories kids love to share. She believes that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and free to be themselves, and she enjoys helping create spaces where kids can laugh, explore, and grow.

She has a deep love for nature and feels happiest spending time outdoors surrounded by fresh air, plants, flowers, and the natural beauty of the world around her. Whether it’s exploring outside, appreciating small moments in nature, or encouraging curiosity about the outdoors, she enjoys bringing that appreciation into everyday life.

Above all, she values connection and meaningful relationships. She loves getting to know the people around her, building trust with the children she works with, and creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone feels included and valued.

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

Sweetest Heart

She is a kind, bubbly, and positive person who truly enjoys being around others and creating a welcoming environment wherever she goes. She connects easily with children of all ages and loves spending time with them—whether that’s doing crafts, exploring outside, playing games, or simply sitting and listening to the imaginative stories kids love to share. She believes that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and free to be themselves, and she enjoys helping create spaces where kids can laugh, explore, and grow.

She has a deep love for nature and feels happiest spending time outdoors surrounded by fresh air, plants, flowers, and the natural beauty of the world around her. Whether it’s exploring outside, appreciating small moments in nature, or encouraging curiosity about the outdoors, she enjoys bringing that appreciation into everyday life.

Above all, she values connection and meaningful relationships. She loves getting to know the people around her, building trust with the children she works with, and creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone feels included and valued.

Independent Leader

Having lived in North Carolina her entire life, she recently decided to embrace a new adventure and move out west this summer. She is currently an English Language Arts teacher for middle and high school students and has been teaching for the past three years.

For the last five years, she has also volunteered with a local youth theatre, helping bring productions to life and supporting young performers. She enjoys working with kids and creating spaces where creativity and confidence can grow.

In her personal time, she loves reading, embroidery, and cuddling with her dog. She also enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and learning new things. In recent years, she has developed a growing love for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking, and she’s excited to continue exploring the natural beauty of the West.

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.

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.

Jr Counselor

Aubree loves spending time outdoors—whether that’s hiking, going for walks, or simply exploring nature. Being outside and connecting with the natural world has always been something that brings her joy. She also enjoys music, spending time with animals, and bringing a positive, fun energy wherever she goes.

Known for her patience, kindness, and playful personality, she loves joking around and making people smile. Growing up as the oldest cousin, she spent a lot of time with younger children and naturally developed a comfort and connection with them. She enjoys helping kids feel included, supported, and excited to participate in new experiences.

We look forward to fun adventures with summer with Aubree's positive personality, encouraging campers to explore, laugh, and build confidence throughout their time with us.