Our Story
Picture this. Six kids, two parents who loved being outside, and a whole country to see. That was the Stephens family, and camping was how we lived. From coast to coast we pitched tents, told stories around the fire, and got close in a way that stuck.
The trips that changed us were the survival camping runs with our father, a USMC Vietnam veteran, and his best friend Mr. Hart. Learning how to handle yourself under a sky full of stars, with your dad doing the teaching. You don't forget that.
We weren't going to let that stay in the past. It became the Father and Son Camping Experience, and we've been running these trips for over 12 years. For nine of those we paid for them out of our own pockets, before there was an organization, a donor, or a tax deduction. We've been a formal nonprofit for three years now, named after our late father, Arthur Lee Stephens.
Every trip is for him. We've watched quiet boys open up on the drive home, and fathers say things around a fire they'd never say at the kitchen table. That's the whole point.
We're still going. If you want to help us take more fathers and sons out, call us at 904-444-2556.
Father and Son Legacy Explorers is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. EIN 33-3226925
Support the Father and Son Legacy Explorers by grabbing our exclusive merch! Every purchase directly funds our upcoming camping event, creating unforgettable outdoor adventures that strengthen father-son bonds.
Meet the Team Behind the Legacy
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At Father and Son Legacy Explorers, our leadership is rooted in family, faith, and a deep commitment to building stronger bonds between fathers and sons. Each member of our team brings personal experience, professional skill, and a shared love for the outdoors — all inspired by the legacy of our father who showed us the value of time, presence, and adventure.
From military discipline and spiritual guidance to hands-on mentorship and teamwork, our staff leads by example — walking alongside every family we serve with heart, humility, and purpose. Together, we are more than an organization — we are a brotherhood committed to raising up the next generation of strong, connected men.
Michael Stephens
A pastor, teacher, and father of two, Michael is the heart behind Father and Son Legacy Explorers. He launched the vision that inspired the organization, drawing from his love of camping, mentorship, and his own dad’s example. Michael’s mission is to guide families toward stronger bonds through faith, nature, and legacy-building moments.
Erik Stephens
Erik is a Marine Corps veteran, father of four, and Co-Founder of Father and Son Legacy Explorers. Inspired by his own father's legacy, he launched the organization to help dads and sons reconnect through nature and mentorship. As a GE Appliances supervisor, Erik balances work and service while sharing life lessons with his son and other young men. His mission is simple: show up, lead by example, and create a legacy that lasts.
Brian Stephens
Brian is a father of two boys and a lead electrician who brings energy, heart, and leadership to Father and Son Legacy Explorers. A lover of sports and mentorship, he helps create powerful bonding experiences that build strong men, one adventure at a time.
Lonnie Williams
A father, husband, and warehouse supervisor, Lonnie brings heart and hands-on leadership to Father and Son Legacy Explorers. A lifelong Gators and Jaguars fan, he’s passionate about helping young men grow through outdoor adventure, mentorship, and family legacy.
Phone
904-444-2556
WHAT YOUR GIFT DOES
$75 sends a son
$175 sends a father
$100 sends a young adult back as a mentor
$300 sends a father and his son
$375 sends a father and both his sons
Every dollar goes to the trip. Food, campsite, gear, and transportation
Connect
Father and Son Legacy Explorers is a registered tax-exempt nonprofit. Donations are tax-deductible. EIN 33-3226925