Nestled in the scenic coastal plains of North Carolina, Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center stands as a beacon of adventure and spiritual growth in Arapahoe, NC. Positioned close to the Neuse River, this camp offers a picturesque setting that complements its rich history. Established with a commitment to nurturing the personal and spiritual development of its attendees, Don Lee has been a home away from home for countless youths since its inception.

The camp’s philosophy is rooted in providing a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment where campers can explore their potential, forge lasting friendships, and deepen their spiritual understanding. This mission is carried out through a variety of activities and programs specifically tailored to promote personal growth and community.

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is designed to accommodate both boys and girls across various age groups. By offering a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and age levels, the camp ensures a welcoming and engaging experience for all who attend. Whether it’s through sailing, environmental education, or spiritual formation, each camper is given the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and enriching setting.

Programs Offered by Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center offers a diverse array of programs tailored to the interests and developmental stages of its campers. Each program is thoughtfully designed to combine fun, learning, and personal growth in a supportive environment.

Program Description

The center provides both traditional and specialty camp experiences. Traditional programs include a variety of outdoor activities such as sailing, kayaking, and environmental education, focusing on the rich natural surroundings of the camp. Specialty programs might delve into arts, sports, and science, providing campers with opportunities to explore specific interests in greater depth.

Length of Sessions

Sessions at Don Lee vary in length to accommodate different family schedules and objectives. Options typically include one-week and two-week sessions, as well as opportunities to participate for most or all of the summer. This flexibility allows families to plan around other summer activities and commitments while still providing a substantial camp experience.

Specialty Programs

The specialty programs at Don Lee are particularly notable for their focus on specific areas such as:

Sailing: Utilizing the camp’s waterfront location to teach sailing skills.
Environmental Science: Programs that focus on the local ecosystem and promote environmental stewardship.
Arts: Including visual and performing arts to encourage creative expression among campers.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, learning, and free time, ensuring that each camper gets the most out of their experience. The schedule usually includes:

Morning Wake-Up to a refreshing start followed by a nourishing breakfast.
Morning Activities, which might include specialized workshops or group games.
Lunch, then some quiet time or free play to digest and recharge.
Afternoon Sessions of skill-building activities or continued specialty programs.
Dinner and evening activities, which often include campfires, storytelling, or night hikes.
Bedtime Reflections to end the day with thoughts and lessons learned.

This structured yet flexible schedule allows campers to engage fully with their surroundings and each other, fostering an environment where growth and learning are natural outcomes.

Accommodations in Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is equipped with comfortable and functional accommodations that cater to the needs of campers throughout their stay. From sleeping arrangements to dining options, the center is designed to ensure that all campers have a pleasant and convenient experience.

Sleeping Arrangements

The camp offers a variety of sleeping accommodations, primarily in the form of cabins. These cabins are well-constructed and maintained, providing a safe and cozy environment for campers. Each cabin typically houses multiple campers, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among them. The cabins are strategically placed throughout the campsite to take advantage of the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Dining Options

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center provides a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall. The dining experience is designed to be both nourishing and enjoyable, encouraging campers to recharge and socialize. The camp is mindful of dietary needs and restrictions, offering various accommodations such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options to ensure that all campers have access to suitable and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near the sleeping quarters. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all campers. Separate facilities are provided for boys and girls, and the camp staff is committed to respecting and maintaining the privacy and dignity of each camper.

Overall, Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment that enhances the overall camp experience.

Activities in Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center provides a robust lineup of activities designed to engage campers of all ages and interests, fostering both fun and developmental growth. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp:

List of Activities Offered

Water Activities: Given its proximity to the Neuse River, Don Lee offers an array of water-based activities, including swimming, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can participate in hiking, exploring local flora and fauna, and environmental education sessions that take advantage of the camp’s natural setting.
Crafts and Creative Arts: A variety of arts and crafts activities allow campers to express their creativity. These might include painting, pottery, and more specialized crafts like woodworking or weaving.
Team Sports and Games: Activities like soccer, volleyball, and basketball are available, along with camp-wide games and competitions that emphasize teamwork and sportsmanship.

Special Events or Traditions

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is rich in tradition, hosting several special events that have become highlights of the camp experience:

Campfires and Sing-Alongs: Regular campfire gatherings bring everyone together for songs, stories, and bonding.
Theme Days: Special themed days or weeks, such as Pirate Week or Eco-Warriors Week, add a unique twist to the camping experience and allow deeper exploration of certain themes.
End-of-Session Celebrations: These celebrations often feature performances, showcases of camper projects, and recognition of achievements throughout the session.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp is committed to providing meaningful skill development in a variety of areas:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training sessions, preparing them for potential roles as counselors or in other leadership positions in the future.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on environmental education programs, campers learn about sustainability, conservation, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Sailing and Boating Skills: With a focus on nautical skills, campers can learn sailing, navigation, and water safety, skills that are not only fun but also practical and enriching.

These activities and opportunities make Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center a place where campers can enjoy an active, educational, and memorable summer experience.

The staff of Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is dedicated to ensuring a high-quality, safe, and enriching experience for all campers through its professional and well-trained staff. Below is detailed information about the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required for staff members.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and greater supervision. The exact ratio varies by age group and specific activities but generally aligns with best practices recommended by camping associations, which often suggest ratios around 1:8 for older children and 1:6 for younger campers. This ratio helps to create a safe, supportive, and responsive camp environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Don Lee is thorough, aimed at selecting candidates who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children and embody the camp’s values. Prospective staff members must undergo:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of the campers.
Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews help gauge the applicant’s experience, skills, and fit with the camp’s culture.
Reference Checks: References are contacted to confirm the candidate’s past performance and suitability for a camp environment.

Candidates typically have experience in childcare, education, or related fields, and many are pursuing or have completed higher education in relevant disciplines.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, staff members receive extensive training to prepare them for the specific needs and challenges of camp life. Training includes:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any health emergencies.
Safety and Emergency Procedures: Comprehensive training in safety protocols and emergency response is provided, ensuring preparedness for any situation.
Child Development and Behavior Management: Training also covers effective strategies for managing group dynamics and supporting individual camper needs.

Additional specialized training might be provided depending on the staff member’s role, such as lifeguard certifications for those supervising water activities or specific skill training for leading adventure sports or crafts.

Through rigorous hiring standards, focused training, and ongoing support, Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center ensures its staff is equipped to provide a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for all campers.

Safety and Health in Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center prioritizes the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to handle health needs and emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

The camp adheres to stringent safety protocols to ensure a secure environment:

Regular Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of safety instructions and guidelines, which are rigorously enforced by the staff. For example, all water activities require life jackets and are supervised by certified lifeguards.
Secure Campground: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to ensure that only authorized persons are on the premises, and campers are monitored at all times.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

The health and well-being of campers are supported by on-site health facilities:

Health Center: The camp has a dedicated health center staffed by qualified medical personnel, such as nurses or EMTs, who are on duty 24/7 to address any health issues or injuries that may occur.
Medication Management: The health center also manages the storage and distribution of medications for campers who require them, ensuring they are administered safely and on schedule.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center has established clear and effective policies for handling various types of emergencies:

Immediate Response: In the case of an emergency, trained staff members provide immediate care, and, if necessary, local emergency services are contacted without delay.
Communication Protocols: The camp has a systematic approach to communicating with parents and guardians in the event of an emergency, ensuring they are informed and updated as needed.
Emergency Training for Staff: All staff members receive training in emergency procedures and crisis management to ensure a coordinated and effective response to any situation.

Through these measures, Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center ensures a safe and healthy environment, allowing campers to enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing they are well-cared for and secure.

Cost and Registration in Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center strives to make its enriching camp experiences accessible and affordable for families. Below are details regarding the cost of attendance, the registration process, and the financial policies including scholarships and aid.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typically, the cost covers:

All Camp Activities: Including specialized programs like sailing and arts.
Accommodation and Meals: Campers are provided with lodging in cabins and three nutritious meals per day.
Camp Gear and Supplies: Any gear needed for camp activities is included, though campers may need to bring personal items and optional extras.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration for camp typically opens several months in advance of the summer season. Here’s what the process generally involves:

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through an online portal where they fill out necessary forms and choose their preferred session.
Early Registration Discounts: Discounts may be available for early registration, encouraging families to sign up ahead of time.
Deadlines: There are specific deadlines for registration which are strictly enforced to allow for proper planning and staffing.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Understanding that planning for camp can be a significant financial commitment, Don Lee offers several options to help families manage the cost:

Payment Plans: Options to spread the cost over several months, making it more manageable.
Refund Policy: The camp provides a detailed refund policy, typically including full or partial refunds up to a certain date before the camp session begins, with exceptions for medical issues.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation, fees may be retained to cover the costs already incurred in preparing for the camper’s attendance.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center believes that all children should have the opportunity to experience camp, regardless of financial circumstances. As such, they offer:

Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are available to help cover the cost of camp for families in financial need.
Financial Aid Applications: Families can apply for financial aid through a confidential process, with awards made based on available funding and individual needs.

These financial policies and supports demonstrate Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center’s commitment to accessibility, ensuring that as many children as possible can enjoy a transformative camp experience.

Cost:

One week traditional camp( Elementary ) – $910
One week traditional camp( Older Youth ) – $1050
Two-week traditional camp( Elementary ) – $2200

Parent and Camper Preparation in Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center

Preparing for camp at Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is an exciting process for both parents and campers, especially for those attending for the first time. Below is essential information about packing, camp rules, and helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camp experience.

Packing List

To ensure campers are well-prepared for their stay, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Enough for the session duration, including swimwear, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, specific gear might be needed, such as a life jacket for water activities (though these are often provided by the camp).
Personal Items: Books, stationery, and a small backpack for day trips.

Rules and Policies

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center maintains a set of rules to ensure a safe and positive environment for all campers:

Technology Use: To encourage engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices like smartphones and tablets is typically restricted or not allowed.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to respect the camp schedule, with specific visitation days or times designated to minimize disruption.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow behavioral guidelines that promote respect, safety, and inclusiveness.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, here are some tips to ease the transition:

Pre-Camp Visits: If possible, visiting the camp beforehand can help alleviate any anxiety and familiarize campers with the setting.
Communication: Discuss how you will communicate (e.g., letters, emails) during the camp. Setting expectations can help reduce homesickness.
Independence Skills: Encourage independence at home with tasks like packing their own suitcase or managing their hygiene as these are important skills at camp.
Emotional Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun aspects but also acknowledging and normalizing feelings of nervousness.

By preparing adequately, parents and campers can ensure that their time at Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center is both enjoyable and enriching. The camp staff is also always available to answer any questions and provide further guidance to make sure everyone is ready for the adventure ahead.

Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center in Arapahoe, NC, offers a rich blend of activities, learning opportunities, and personal growth tailored to children and young adults. Through its engaging programs, skilled and caring staff, and a commitment to safety and wellness, Don Lee provides an ideal setting for campers to explore their potential, connect with nature, and make lasting friendships. The comprehensive approach to camper and parent preparation, along with supportive financial options, ensures that every family can access this transformative summer experience.

Whether navigating the waters of the Neuse River, participating in a campfire sing-along, or discovering a new hobby, campers leave with cherished memories and skills that benefit them beyond the camp’s boundaries. Don Lee Camp and Retreat Center truly embodies a spirit of adventure and community, making it a distinguished choice for a summer retreat.