2026 Southern States 200 Training Camp

The final 8.6-mile climb to Mount Cheaha strikes fear into the hearts of even experienced ultrarunners. At our exclusive training camp, you'll discover what virtually every 2024 and 2025 Southern States 200 finisher learned: “It's not nearly as bad as you imagined.”

Transform terror into confidence. Turn the unknown into your advantage.

Why This Camp Is Essential

For First-Time 200-Milers

We strongly recommend all first-time 200-mile runners attend this camp. The difference between a 24-48 hour hundred-miler and a 96-hour 200-miler is more than just time—it's a completely different mental and physical challenge.

For Anyone Considering the Adventure

Thinking about the Southern States 200 or 100? This camp is open to everyone, not just registered runners. Experience the course, meet the community, and decide if this adventure is calling your name.

Learn from the Best

Get insider knowledge from successful 200-mile finishers, experienced crew members, and our medical team. This isn't theoretical advice—it's battle-tested wisdom from people who've been exactly where you're going.

What You'll Experience

Saturday: Face Your Biggest Fear

Morning Course Preview (8:30 AM)

• Run the infamous final 8.6 miles from Lost Gulch to Mount Cheaha summit

• Experience the climb that "terrifies" most runners before they actually do it

• Gain confidence by conquering your biggest mental obstacle

• All transportation provided

Afternoon Masterclass (1:00-5:00 PM) Learn what you really need to know from:

• Front-of-pack finishers sharing winning strategies

• Back-of-pack warriors who battled cutoffs and won

• Experienced crew members preparing you for what your support team will face

• Medical team leaders discussing health and safety protocols

Evening Community (5:00-6:00 PM)

• Fireside cookout (weather permitting) or indoor dinner

• Connect with fellow adventurers and experienced runners

• Build the relationships that will support you on race day

Sunday: Master More Course Secrets

Second Course Preview (7:45 AM)

• 11-mile run from Fay's Blowdown to Lost Gulch

• Experience another challenging section

• Build confidence on technical terrain

• Transportation provided

Complete Camp Package - $150

What's Included:

• Two course preview runs with transportation

• Saturday lunch at Redbud Pavilion

• Happy hour and dinner Saturday evening

• Continental breakfast both mornings (donuts and coffee)

• Exclusive swag package: Southern States dry bag, training shirt, and more

• Expert instruction from successful finishers and crew

• Medical insights from our healthcare team

What's Not Included:

• Lodging (see accommodation options below)

• Additional meals beyond those listed

Limited to 30 participants - Register early to secure your spot!

Detailed Schedule

Saturday, February 7th

7:30-8:00 AM - Coffee and donuts at Redbud Pavilion
8:15 AM - Shuttle to Lost Gulch Aid Station
8:30 AM - Begin the legendary final climb (8.6 miles to summit)
11:30 AM-12:45 PM - Lunch at Redbud Pavilion
1:00-5:00 PM - Comprehensive classroom session with expert speakers
5:00-6:00 PM - Dinner and community time

Sunday, February 8th

7:00 AM - Continental breakfast
7:15 AM - Shuttle to Fay's Blowdown
7:45 AM - Course preview run (11 miles to Lost Gulch)
10:00-11:00 AM - Return shuttle to Cheaha State Park

Both runs are optional but highly recommended