Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Cleveland, Georgia, Strong Rock Camp stands as a beacon of adventure, personal growth, and lifelong friendships. This esteemed camp is strategically located in the heart of the southeastern United States, surrounded by the natural beauty and tranquil scenery of Georgia’s lush forests and mountains, making it an idyllic setting for a memorable summer experience.

Strong Rock Camp has a rich history rooted in a commitment to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for young individuals. Founded on the principles of building character, developing leadership skills, and encouraging service to others, the camp has been dedicated to creating an enriching experience that goes beyond traditional summer activities. Through the years, Strong Rock has evolved, continuously adapting and enhancing its programs to meet the needs of each generation while staying true to its core values.

The mission of Strong Rock Camp is to provide a safe, fun, and transformative environment where campers can discover their strengths, develop a positive self-image, and cultivate a sense of belonging. The camp operates under a philosophy that emphasizes respect for oneself and others, the importance of community, and the pursuit of personal excellence. Through a carefully designed array of activities, campers are encouraged to challenge themselves, explore new interests, and build lasting relationships.

Catering to boys and girls across various age groups, Strong Rock Camp offers a diverse range of programs that accommodate the unique needs and interests of each camper. From thrilling outdoor adventures and creative arts to team sports and leadership development, the camp provides a comprehensive summer experience that supports the holistic growth of every young individual. Whether it’s their first time away from home or they are returning campers, Strong Rock ensures that each child receives the guidance, support, and opportunities necessary to thrive.

In the heart of Cleveland, GA, Strong Rock Camp stands not just as a place for summer fun, but as a community where values are lived, characters are built, and lifelong memories are forged.

Programs Offered by Strong Rock Camp

Strong Rock Camp offers a vibrant and diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of campers across different age groups. With a focus on adventure, creativity, personal growth, and fun, the camp’s programs are meticulously structured to ensure that every camper has an enriching and unforgettable summer experience.

Program Descriptions and Length of Sessions

Explorer Program: Ideal for younger campers experiencing camp for the first time. This program offers a gentle introduction to camp life, with sessions lasting one week. Activities are designed to build confidence, foster friendships, and introduce campers to the joys of outdoor adventure in a supportive environment.
Adventure Program: Geared towards middle-aged campers, this two-week session deepens the camp experience with a more extensive range of activities. It includes team-building exercises, more challenging outdoor adventures, and opportunities for personal growth and development.
Leadership Development Program: Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills, teamwork, and self-reflection. Sessions typically last two weeks and include specialized activities that prepare campers for roles as future leaders, both at camp and in their communities.

Specialty Programs

Strong Rock Camp offers specialty programs designed to cater to specific interests and talents. These include:

Arts: From painting and pottery to music and theater, the arts program encourages creativity and self-expression, allowing campers to explore their artistic talents in a nurturing environment.
Sports: Catering to all skill levels, the sports program includes a wide range of activities such as soccer, basketball, archery, and more, focusing on teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness.
Science and Nature: This program offers hands-on learning experiences in the great outdoors, including nature walks, environmental education, and science experiments, fostering a love and appreciation for the natural world.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Strong Rock Camp is carefully planned to balance activity with rest, learning with fun, and individual time with group activities. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

Morning:
- Wake-up and cabin clean-up
- Breakfast in the dining hall
- Morning assembly and activity briefing
- Activity session 1 (e.g., arts and crafts or sports)
Afternoon:
- Lunch and rest period
- Activity session 2 (e.g., nature hike or science experiment)
- Free time for campers to explore camp amenities or participate in supervised free-choice activities
Evening:
- Dinner in the dining hall
- Evening program (e.g., campfire, talent show, or themed party)
- Reflection and cabin time, where campers discuss the day’s events and bond with their cabin mates
Night:
- Lights out

Throughout the session, whether one week, two weeks, or the full summer, campers are immersed in an environment that promotes learning, growth, and fun. With a focus on building character, fostering friendships, and creating memories, Strong Rock Camp offers a summer experience that campers will treasure for a lifetime.

Accommodations in Strong Rock Camp

Strong Rock Camp provides comfortable and safe accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among campers. The camp’s facilities are thoughtfully laid out and maintained to ensure that every camper feels at home, secure, and part of the Strong Rock family.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Strong Rock Camp is cabin living. These cabins are designed to be cozy and comfortable, providing a home away from home for campers. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, usually based on age groups, to ensure that everyone has enough space and that supervision is appropriate. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal belongings, and are centrally located to camp facilities for easy access. They also have electricity, heating, and air conditioning to ensure comfort regardless of the weather.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Strong Rock Camp offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals a day, plus snacks. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat, share stories, and enjoy fellowship. Meals are served buffet style, with a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences. The camp takes pride in providing nutritious, tasty food that fuels the campers for their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to individual dietary needs, Strong Rock Camp is committed to accommodating special diets, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. The kitchen staff is trained to handle these needs with the utmost care, ensuring that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options that suit their dietary restrictions.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, strategically located near the cabins for easy access. These facilities are gender-segregated and are designed to ensure privacy, cleanliness, and convenience for all campers. Regular cleaning and maintenance schedules are strictly followed to maintain high hygiene standards. The facilities include flush toilets, hot and cold showers, and ample space for personal hygiene routines, ensuring that campers feel comfortable and refreshed throughout their stay.

Strong Rock Camp’s accommodations and facilities are a testament to the camp’s dedication to creating a welcoming, safe, and nurturing environment. By taking care of the practical aspects of living and dining, the camp allows campers to focus on the enriching experiences and adventures that await them each day.

Activities in Strong Rock Camp

Strong Rock Camp offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, ensuring that every day is filled with fun, adventure, and opportunities for personal growth. The camp’s activities are meticulously planned to promote physical health, foster creativity, encourage teamwork, and develop leadership skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities such as hiking, camping, and nature exploration allow campers to connect with the natural world, learn about environmental stewardship, and develop survival skills.
Water Sports: Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the camp’s lake provide fun ways to cool off on hot summer days while teaching water safety and enhancing physical fitness.
Sports and Games: A variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and tennis, cater to all skill levels, emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can explore their artistic side through crafts, pottery, painting, music, and drama, encouraging self-expression and creativity.
Horseback Riding: For those interested in equestrian activities, horseback riding offers a unique opportunity to learn about animal care, riding skills, and responsibility.
Climbing and Ropes Courses: These activities challenge campers physically and mentally, promoting problem-solving skills, confidence, and trust in others.

Special Events or Traditions

Strong Rock Camp is rich in special events and traditions that foster a sense of community and create lasting memories. These may include:

Campfires and Singalongs: Regular campfires provide a time for the whole camp to come together for storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting, reinforcing the camp’s close-knit community.
Theme Days and Nights: Special-themed activities and dress-up days add an element of fun and creativity, allowing campers to express themselves in a supportive environment.
End-of-Camp Banquet: A celebratory meal that marks the end of the session, where achievements are recognized, friendships are celebrated, and memories are cherished.

Skill Development Opportunities

Strong Rock Camp is committed to providing campers with meaningful opportunities to develop new skills and enhance existing ones, including:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership development programs, where they learn about effective communication, team building, and conflict resolution.
Environmental Education: Through nature hikes and conservation projects, campers gain a deeper understanding of environmental issues and the importance of protecting our planet.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops and activities designed to boost self-esteem, foster resilience, and encourage positive thinking help campers develop a strong sense of self and a positive outlook on life.

At Strong Rock Camp, the combination of fun activities, special events, and skill development opportunities creates a holistic camp experience that promotes physical well-being, emotional growth, and personal achievement, all within a supportive and caring community.

The staff of Strong Rock Camp

Strong Rock Camp is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for all campers, and this commitment is reflected in the camp’s careful selection and training of its staff. The camp prides itself on maintaining a high staff-to-camper ratio, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Here’s how Strong Rock Camp ensures its staff are well-equipped to create a memorable and safe camping experience:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Strong Rock Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, often exceeding industry standards. This ratio ensures that each camper gets the attention, guidance, and supervision they need for a safe and enjoyable camp experience. The exact ratio may vary depending on the age group and specific activities but is designed to optimize the camp experience for safety, enjoyment, and personal growth.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selective Hiring Process: The camp’s hiring process is rigorous and thorough, starting with an extensive application, interviews, and background checks. The camp seeks individuals who are not only qualified in their respective fields but who also share the camp’s values and commitment to fostering a positive and supportive environment for children.
Diverse Qualifications: Staff members come from a variety of backgrounds, including education, recreation, the arts, and athletics. What they all have in common is a passion for working with children, a strong sense of responsibility, and a commitment to creating an impactful camp experience.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo intensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and activity-specific safety protocols. This ensures that every staff member is prepared to provide a safe, fun, and enriching environment for the campers.
Certifications: Staff members who lead or supervise specialized activities such as swimming, horseback riding, or ropes courses hold relevant certifications. Additionally, a significant portion of the staff is trained and certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any health or safety issues that may arise.
Ongoing Education: Strong Rock Camp encourages and often facilitates ongoing education and training for its staff, including leadership development, child psychology, and specific skill certifications. This commitment to professional development ensures that the camp continually enhances its programs and the quality of supervision and instruction.

The staff at Strong Rock Camp are more than just supervisors or instructors; they are role models, mentors, and an integral part of the camp community. Through their dedication, qualifications, and ongoing training, they create an environment where campers can thrive, learn, and create lasting memories in a safe and caring setting.

Safety and Health in Strong Rock Camp

Strong Rock Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to ensure a secure environment. The camp’s approach to safety and health is proactive, focusing on prevention, preparedness, and prompt response to any issues that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity Safety: All activities at Strong Rock Camp are designed with safety in mind, following best practices and guidelines for each specific activity. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and activities are supervised by staff with appropriate qualifications and certifications, such as lifeguards for swimming or certified instructors for climbing and ropes courses.
Training in Emergency Procedures: Staff members receive extensive training in emergency procedures, including fire safety, severe weather protocols, and lockdown procedures. Regular drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to act swiftly and safely in case of an emergency.
Risk Management: The camp conducts regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards. This includes environmental hazards, equipment safety, and health risks. A culture of safety is promoted throughout the camp, with campers encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and to practice personal responsibility.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Strong Rock Camp has an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, such as nurses or EMTs, who are available around the clock. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, and staff are trained to manage chronic conditions or administer medications as needed.
Healthcare Protocols: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any immediate health concerns and to verify that all medical information provided is accurate and up-to-date. The camp keeps detailed health records for each camper, ensuring that any medical needs are addressed promptly and appropriately.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, the camp’s healthcare staff provide immediate care, and if necessary, the camp has protocols in place for quickly transporting individuals to the nearest medical facility. The camp maintains relationships with local healthcare providers to ensure that campers receive prompt and effective medical attention when required.
Communication: Strong Rock Camp has clear policies for communicating with parents and guardians in the event of an emergency involving their child. The camp ensures timely and accurate communication, respecting the need for parents to be informed while also managing the situation as effectively as possible.
Training and Collaboration: In addition to internal training, the camp collaborates with local emergency services to ensure a coordinated response to any situation. This includes allowing local fire, police, and emergency medical services to be familiar with the camp layout and its emergency procedures.

Strong Rock Camp’s comprehensive approach to safety and health reflects its commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment where campers can enjoy their summer experience without compromise. Through diligent preparation, ongoing training, and a focus on prevention, the camp ensures that both campers and staff are well-cared for and that parents can have peace of mind while their children are at camp.

Cost and Registration in Strong Rock Camp

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

The cost of attending Strong Rock Camp typically covers all aspects of the camp experience to ensure a hassle-free time for both campers and their parents. This includes:

Lodging in well-maintained cabins or dormitory-style accommodations.
Three meals a day, plus snacks, accommodating any dietary restrictions or needs.
All camp activities, including specialty programs like horseback riding, water sports, and arts and crafts.
Access to all camp facilities, including the swimming pool, climbing walls, and sports fields.
Camp t-shirt and any other memorabilia included in the welcome package.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration for Strong Rock Camp usually opens several months before the camp season begins, and it often involves the following steps:

Online Application: Complete an online application form on the camp’s website, providing details about the camper and selecting preferred session dates.
Deposit: A deposit may be required at the time of registration to secure the camper’s spot.
Health Forms: Submission of health forms and any other required documents must be completed by a specified deadline before the camp starts.

Deadlines for registration are typically set to ensure enough time for camp preparation and staffing, but some camps offer rolling admissions as long as spaces are available.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Many camps, including Strong Rock, offer payment plans to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds and Cancellation: Policies on refunds and cancellations vary, but most camps provide a full or partial refund if cancellation occurs by a certain date. After that, refunds may only be available for medical reasons or family emergencies.
Insurance: Some camps offer cancellation insurance for purchase at the time of registration.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Strong Rock Camp is committed to making camp experiences accessible to as many children as possible and often provides scholarships or financial aid to families in need.
Financial aid is typically awarded based on need, and the application process may require submission of financial documents.
Scholarships may cover part or all of the camp fees, and some are dedicated to specific populations or intended for children who show particular promise in certain areas, such as leadership or arts.

Strong Rock Camp offers a two-week sleepaway program with a flat fee per session. The cost is $2,598 for each two-week main session

Parent and Camper Preparation in Strong Rock Camp

Preparing for a summer at Strong Rock Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable camp experience, it’s important to be well-prepared and informed about what to expect. Here’s a guide to help you get ready for an unforgettable summer.

Packing List

The camp provides a detailed packing list that includes all the essentials for a comfortable stay. While specific items may vary based on the activities your camper will participate in, here are some general categories and items to consider:

Clothing: Pack enough clothing for the session length, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, underwear, and socks. Include a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, swimwear, and a hat for sun protection. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for activities and flip-flops for showers.
Bedding and Towels: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets that fit a twin bed, along with a pillow. You’ll also need towels for both bathing and swimming.
Toiletries: Pack all necessary personal hygiene items, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and any personal care products.
Sun Protection and Bug Spray: Essential for outdoor activities to protect against sunburn and insect bites.
Water Bottle: A durable, refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: For evening activities and moving around the cabin at night.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Strong Rock Camp often has policies limiting the use of personal electronic devices to encourage campers to engage fully with the camp experience and to foster interpersonal connections. Check the camp’s specific policy, but prepare for limited access to phones, tablets, and similar devices.
Visitation: There may be specific times and policies for parent visits to ensure the safety and security of campers and staff. Be sure to understand these guidelines to plan any visits accordingly.
Behavior Expectations: The camp sets clear expectations for camper behavior, emphasizing respect, responsibility, and community. Familiarize yourself and your camper with these rules to support a positive environment for all.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate during the camp session, whether through letters, emails, or scheduled calls, based on the camp’s policy.
Homesickness: It’s natural for some campers to experience homesickness. Talk about it beforehand and encourage your child to stay engaged in activities and to talk to their counselors, who are trained to help.
Independence: Camp is a great opportunity for your child to gain independence. Discuss this exciting aspect and reassure them that it’s okay to try new things and make decisions on their own.
Pack Together: Involve your camper in the packing process. This ensures they know what they have with them and encourages responsibility for their belongings.

Preparing for camp is part of the journey. By following these guidelines and embracing the adventure, both campers and parents can look forward to a summer filled with growth, fun, and cherished memories at Strong Rock Camp.

Strong Rock Camp stands as a remarkable testament to the power of a summer camp experience that is both enriching and transformative. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Cleveland, Georgia, it offers a sanctuary where children can explore, learn, and grow amidst the wonders of nature. With a wide array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures and water sports to creative arts and leadership development, Strong Rock Camp provides an all-encompassing experience that caters to the diverse interests and needs of its campers.

The camp’s commitment to safety, personal growth, and community building is evident in every aspect of its operations—from the carefully selected and trained staff to the meticulously planned programs and activities. Strong Rock Camp is more than just a place for summer fun; it is a community that nurtures the development of character, fosters lifelong friendships, and inspires campers to achieve their fullest potential.