Welcome to Falling Creek Camp, a sanctuary for young minds nestled in the picturesque mountains of Zirconia, North Carolina. Established in the lush landscapes near iconic landmarks like the Blue Ridge Mountains, this camp offers a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty that has been a part of its foundation since its inception.

From its early days, Falling Creek Camp has been dedicated to fostering independence, character, and adventure among its campers. With a profound mission to provide a safe, fun, and challenging environment, the camp encourages boys from various age groups to grow in body, spirit, and mind.

As a boys-only camp, Falling Creek serves various age groups, creating tailored experiences that cater to the unique developmental needs of young boys and teens. Through a blend of traditional camp activities and innovative programming, it remains committed to its philosophy of building lasting friendships and memories, while empowering campers to discover their fullest potential.

Programs Offered by Falling Creek Camp

Falling Creek Camp offers a wide range of programs designed to engage, challenge, and inspire boys of all ages. These programs vary in length and focus, catering to different interests and developmental stages.

Program Descriptions and Session Lengths:

Main Camp Sessions – These sessions can range from 1 to 4 weeks, offering a broad spectrum of traditional camp activities. This option is perfect for first-time campers or those looking for a comprehensive summer camp experience.
Father/Son Weekends – These are short, intensive sessions held over a weekend that allow fathers and sons to bond through shared camp activities and experiences.
Expedition Programs – Tailored for older campers, these sessions last 2 to 3 weeks and focus on wilderness adventures and leadership skills.

Specialty Programs:

Falling Creek Camp also offers specialty programs that focus on specific areas of interest:

Arts – Includes creative endeavors like pottery, woodworking, and performing arts.
Sports – Covers a wide range of activities from soccer and basketball to more niche sports like archery and rock climbing.
Science – Engages campers with nature through environmental science, astronomy, and other STEM-related activities.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A day at Falling Creek Camp is structured yet varied, designed to keep campers engaged and active from morning to night. Here’s a general idea of a typical day:

Morning:
- 7:30 AM – Wake Up
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – Morning Chapel (a time for reflection and community gathering)
- 9:30 AM – Morning Activities (campers participate in pre-selected activities or sessions)
Afternoon:
- 12:30 PM – Lunch
- 1:30 PM – Rest Hour
- 2:30 PM – Afternoon Activities (a second round of activities, often different from the morning sessions)
- 5:00 PM – Free Time
Evening:
- 6:00 PM – Dinner
- 7:00 PM – Evening Program (varied daily, can be camp-wide games, talent shows, or campfires)
- 8:30 PM – Cabin Time (time spent with cabin mates and counselors to reflect on the day)
- 9:30 PM – Lights Out

Through its well-rounded programs and structured daily schedule, Falling Creek Camp ensures that every camper has the opportunity to learn, grow, and most importantly, have fun in a supportive and enriching environment.

Accommodations in Falling Creek Camp

At Falling Creek Camp, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers have a comfortable and authentic camp experience while fostering camaraderie and community among the boys.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangements at Falling Creek are rustic, yet cozy cabins. These cabins are well-constructed and equipped with bunk beds, accommodating about 8 to 12 campers each. They are typically grouped by age and are supervised by dedicated counselors who stay in the cabins with the campers to ensure safety and provide guidance.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: The camp offers a full dining service with three well-balanced meals served daily in the communal dining hall. The atmosphere during meal times is vibrant and communal, encouraging campers to interact and bond over meals.
Dietary Accommodations: Falling Creek is committed to catering to the dietary needs of all campers. Options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions due to allergies or religious beliefs are available. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special dietary requirements prior to the camp session to ensure that their children are well catered for.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities. These facilities are centrally located for convenient access and are shared among a small number of cabins. They are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy and safety in the bathroom and shower facilities are paramount. The camp implements strict protocols and supervision to maintain a safe environment for all campers.

Through its comfortable living accommodations, nutritious and accommodating dining options, and clean, safe bathroom facilities, Falling Creek Camp ensures a home away from home where campers can thrive both physically and emotionally.

Activities in Falling Creek Camp

Falling Creek Camp offers a diverse array of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development, all designed to cater to the interests and growth of young boys in a fun and dynamic environment.

List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: Includes hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing.
Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing on the camp’s private lake.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, baseball, and ultimate frisbee.
Individual Sports: Archery, tennis, and golf.
Creative Arts: Pottery, painting, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music.
Skill-Based Activities: Wilderness survival skills, orienteering, and environmental education.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are key events that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, filled with rituals and traditions that promote a sense of community.
Tribal Competitions: Campers are divided into tribes for friendly competition in various sports and creative contests, fostering teamwork and spirit.
Theme Nights: Such as costume parties or camp-wide games, which encourage creativity and fun.
Campfire Nights: Featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, these nights are essential for bonding and sharing experiences.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership programs, helping to guide younger campers and manage camp activities.
Advanced Skill Workshops: For specific sports or arts, where campers can enhance their abilities under the guidance of expert instructors.
Environmental Stewardship: Educates campers on conservation and responsible environmental practices through hands-on activities.

At Falling Creek Camp, the extensive range of activities and special events ensures that every camper can find something that excites and challenges them, while also offering numerous opportunities for personal growth and skill development.

The staff of Falling Creek Camp

At Falling Creek Camp, the staff are a crucial element of the camp’s success and the positive experience of each camper. The camp prides itself on a high level of care and professionalism, reflected in its staffing choices, training programs, and overall staff-to-camper ratio.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Ratio: Falling Creek maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, typically around 1 staff member for every 4 campers. This ensures that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision, enhancing both safety and the quality of the camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from across the United States and internationally, often from top universities and colleges, with a strong emphasis on finding individuals who are passionate about youth development and outdoor activities.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have prior experience in teaching or coaching, particularly in the activities they will be overseeing. Many are also former campers themselves, bringing a personal understanding and commitment to the camp’s values and traditions.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including criminal record checks, are mandatory for all potential staff to ensure the safety and security of the campers.

Training and Certifications:

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo extensive training that covers emergency procedures, camp rules and regulations, communication skills, and the specific responsibilities of their assigned roles.
Certifications: All staff involved in activities that require special skills, such as swimming instructors or rock climbing coaches, hold relevant certifications. Additionally, a significant number of the staff are trained in CPR and First Aid to handle any potential medical situations.

Continued Education:

Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing education sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging challenges.
Feedback System: A robust feedback system allows for continuous improvement, with staff receiving regular evaluations from their supervisors and peers.

The stringent hiring process, combined with rigorous training and a firm commitment to maintaining a high staff-to-camper ratio, ensures that Falling Creek Camp provides a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers.

Safety and Health in Falling Creek Camp

Falling Creek Camp places a strong emphasis on safety and health, ensuring that all campers enjoy a secure and healthy camp experience. The camp implements comprehensive safety protocols, maintains well-equipped on-site health facilities, and has clear policies for handling emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in different scenarios.
Activity Safety: Each activity area has specific safety protocols, which are rigorously enforced. For example, all water sports activities are supervised by lifeguards, and gear checks are mandatory for activities like rock climbing.
Nighttime Security: The camp enforces a strict curfew and has nighttime security measures in place, including staff patrols and a check-in system to ensure all campers are accounted for and safe.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Falling Creek Camp has a fully equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak times, a visiting doctor.
24/7 Availability: Medical staff are available around the clock to handle any health issues that may arise, providing both routine and emergency care.
Medication Management: The health center staff also manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions and parental consent.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan in place, which includes protocols for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there are clear lines of communication between camp staff, local emergency services, and parents. The camp ensures that parents are promptly informed of any significant issues affecting their children.
Training in Emergency Procedures: All staff are trained in emergency response, including the use of the camp’s communication systems and first aid procedures, to ensure a swift and effective response to any situation.

Through these robust safety and health measures, Falling Creek Camp provides a safe and nurturing environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind for both themselves and their parents.

Cost and Registration in Falling Creek Camp

Falling Creek Camp offers a detailed structure for costs, registration, and financial options to accommodate families and ensure that camp is accessible for boys who wish to participate.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes:

Costs: The cost of attending Falling Creek Camp varies depending on the length and type of session chosen. Typically, prices range from a few hundred dollars for shorter sessions like the Father/Son weekends to several thousand dollars for the longer, more intensive sessions.
Inclusions: The cost covers all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging in cabins, all meals and snacks, access to all camp programs and activities, equipment use, and the guidance of trained staff. There are no additional required fees for the basic camp program, but special trips or advanced programs may carry extra charges.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Families can register their children via the camp’s online portal, which is typically opened several months in advance of the camp season.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as many sessions fill up quickly. The camp provides specific deadlines for each session, and early bird discounts are often available for those who register well in advance.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial commitment, Falling Creek Camp offers structured payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fees over a period of months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a refund policy in place, which typically allows families to receive a full or partial refund if they cancel by a certain date. Specific details vary by session and are clearly outlined during the registration process. After certain deadlines, refunds may not be available, or a cancellation fee may apply.
Insurance: The camp also offers cancellation insurance to help cover costs in case of unexpected cancellations due to illness or other covered events.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Falling Creek Camp provides scholarships and financial aid options to assist families who may not otherwise be able to afford the camp experience. These are typically need-based and require an application detailing the family’s financial situation.
Fundraising and Support: The camp also supports various fundraising efforts and works with community organizations to ensure that potential campers have the opportunity to attend, regardless of their financial background.

By offering a range of financial options and support, Falling Creek Camp aims to make its enriching summer experiences available to as many boys as possible, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent interested families from sending their children to camp.

Falling Creek Camp offers various summer camp programs for boys in different age groups and with varying durations. Here’s a breakdown of their fees:

Costs: Prices depend on the chosen program. They range from $2,125 for Junior Camp (1-4 weeks) to $8,225 for Main Camp (2-10 graders).

Parent and Camper Preparation in Falling Creek Camp

Falling Creek Camp ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience, providing detailed guidance on packing, rules and policies, and offering tips to help first-timers adjust smoothly.

Packing List:

Essentials: Weather-appropriate clothing, including rain gear, swimwear, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Special Gear: Specific items related to activities such as musical instruments for campfire music sessions, or specific sports gear like tennis rackets, if not provided by the camp.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small personal items to make the cabin feel more like home.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Falling Creek Camp has a no-technology policy for campers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices, which are collected and stored upon arrival to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit during specific visitation days, which are scheduled to minimize disruption to the camp program. Outside these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is a cornerstone of camp policy. Campers are expected to adhere to camp rules, participate actively in scheduled activities, and maintain a positive attitude.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Dive into the experience, try new activities, and make new friends. Camp is a unique opportunity to learn new skills and discover new interests.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any issues, talk to your counselors. They’re there to help and ensure you have a great time.
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: When discussing camp, focus on the exciting opportunities and fun your child will have. This can help alleviate any pre-camp anxiety.
- Pack Smart: Label all belongings with your child’s name, and check the camp’s packing list to ensure nothing is forgotten.
- Prepare for Separation: Especially for first-time campers, prepare your child for being away from home by discussing what the experience will be like and how they can handle challenges like homesickness.

By providing clear guidelines and support, Falling Creek Camp helps ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for a positive and enriching camp experience.

Falling Creek Camp stands out as a beacon of adventure, growth, and community for young boys. Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s scenic landscapes, the camp offers a rich array of activities, dedicated staff, and a robust program designed to foster independence, teamwork, and resilience. From the carefully structured activities and comprehensive safety measures to the immersive camp traditions that build lasting memories, Falling Creek provides more than just a summer getaway—it offers a transformative experience.

As campers return year after year, they not only bring home new skills and friendships but also a deeper sense of self and a lifelong connection to the Falling Creek community. This camp is truly a place where boys can thrive, explore, and discover their best selves amidst the beauty and spirit of the great outdoors.