The Real Deal: Two nights' camping at Devil's Lake State Park, two breakfasts, two lunches, one dinner, guided rock climbing, and hiking, from $325 per person—including taxes.
When: May 8–10, June 19–21, July 10–12, and Sept. 4–6, 2009.
The fine print: Based on double occupancy; add $20 to stay in a single tent. Average group size ranges between five and 10 people. Read these guidelines before you book any Real Deal.
Book by: No deadline; based on availability. Must book at least three days in advance to allow time to coordinate gear and food arrangements.
Contact The Northwest Passage, 800/732-7328, nwpassage.com.
Why it's a deal: The $325 rate breaks down to about $163 a night and includes two nights' camping, two breakfasts, two lunches, one dinner, as well as two days of guided rock climbing and hiking with the services of experienced guides.
Highlights: This trip doesn't require any previous rock-climbing experience. The groups are relatively small with a ratio of one guide for every five participants. The guides are highly experienced group leaders knowledgeable in wilderness travel and certified in wilderness first aid. Once you register, you'll receive a list of things to bring, including insulating clothes, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad. You'll also receive a map and directions to your meeting location at Devil's Lake State Park. Expect to hike about an hour to reach the climbing area. If you're new to rock climbing, don't worry—you'll begin Saturday with an overview of basic rock climbing. You'll spend most of your two-day stay climbing and be finished by 3 p.m. on Sunday, so you don't get home too late.
Lodging: Two nights in a two-person Eureka or Kelty brand lightweight tent at Devil's Lake State Park near Baraboo, Wis., about three to four hours' drive north of Chicago. The campground has restrooms with running water and showers.
More: The only available optional activity is hiking, which is free. Additional rock-climbing days can't be added because the Northwest Passage staff will leave with all the gear late on Sunday afternoon. However, there are several motels in the area, where you can book extra nights on your own.
Before you go: For more information about the area, visit the official tourism Web sites for Devil's Lake State Park and the state of Wisconsin. Expect the weather to be hot and sunny in the summer with temperature highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s.