Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Brevard, North Carolina, Keystone Camp stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young girls. Situated in a region renowned for its breathtaking mountains and lush forests, this camp is not just a place; it’s a journey into the heart of nature.

Founded in 1916, Keystone Camp is proud to be the oldest private summer camp for girls in the Southeast. It was established with a vision to provide a nurturing environment where girls could become independent, confident, and responsible through a variety of camp activities. Over a century later, Keystone continues to embody its founding principles, making it a cherished summer tradition for generations.

The philosophy at Keystone Camp is simple yet profound: “Empower each camper to explore her own path.” Through a supportive community and a wide range of activities, Keystone fosters self-discovery and skill development. It’s a place where every girl is encouraged to be her best self, in an environment that values fun, camaraderie, and personal growth.

Keystone Camp is designed exclusively for girls and welcomes campers from age 6 to 16. Each age group is carefully catered to, with programs tailored to meet their developmental needs and interests. Whether it’s riding horses, archery, or crafting, every activity is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Join us at Keystone Camp, where every summer unfolds new adventures, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime. Here, in the heart of North Carolina, your journey awaits.

Programs Offered by Keystone Camp

At Keystone Camp, a wide array of programs is designed to cater to the diverse interests and developmental stages of each camper. These programs are carefully structured to ensure a fulfilling and enriching summer experience.

Program Description

Keystone Camp offers various session lengths to accommodate different needs and preferences. Campers can choose from one-week, two-week, or full summer sessions, each packed with activities designed to engage, educate, and inspire.

Specialty Programs

Keystone’s specialty programs span a broad range of interests, allowing each girl to find something she loves or discover a new passion. Some of the standout specialty areas include:

Arts: From pottery and painting to drama and dance, the arts program encourages creativity and self-expression.
Sports: Keystone offers a variety of sports, including horseback riding, archery, swimming, and tennis, promoting physical health and teamwork.
Science: The science program sparks curiosity and exploration, with fun, hands-on projects like ecology and astronomy.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Keystone Camp is thoughtfully structured to balance activity with downtime, fostering both growth and relaxation. Here’s what a typical day looks like:

Morning:
- 7:30 AM: Wake-up and cabin clean-up
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast
- 9:00 AM: First activity period
- 10:15 AM: Second activity period
Afternoon:
- 12:30 PM: Lunch and rest hour
- 2:00 PM: Third activity period
- 3:15 PM: Fourth activity period
- 4:30 PM: Free time and snack
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00 PM: Evening program (varies daily, could be a campfire, talent show, etc.)
- 8:30 PM: Return to cabins and get ready for bed
- 9:30 PM: Lights out

This schedule is designed to keep campers engaged in a variety of activities while also providing ample opportunity for rest and free play. Keystone Camp’s commitment to providing a balanced, enriching summer experience ensures that every camper leaves with lasting memories and new skills.

Accommodations in Keystone Camp

Keystone Camp provides a comfortable and safe environment that enhances the overall camping experience. From cozy sleeping arrangements to nutritious dining options, every detail is crafted with the well-being of the campers in mind.

Sleeping Arrangements

At Keystone Camp, the primary accommodations are charming, rustic cabins that are designed to blend into the natural surroundings. These cabins foster a sense of community and camaraderie among the campers. Each cabin houses a group of campers along with one or two counselors, ensuring supervision and safety at all times. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and campers are encouraged to personalize their space to make it feel like home.

Dining Options

Keystone Camp takes great pride in its dining services, offering a variety of healthy and delicious meals to keep campers energized throughout the day. The camp provides three well-balanced meals daily, served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat and socialize.

Meal Plans: The menu is carefully planned to be kid-friendly and nutritious, including options like pastas, salads, sandwiches, and a selection of hot meals.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, Keystone offers accommodations for vegetarians, vegans, and those with allergies or other dietary restrictions. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff prior to arrival to ensure that these are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Keystone Camp is equipped with modern, centrally located bathroom and shower facilities. These facilities are shared among campers in nearby cabins and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Private stalls and shower areas provide campers with privacy and comfort.

The accommodations at Keystone Camp are designed to ensure that all campers have a comfortable, enjoyable, and safe stay, allowing them to focus on the fun and learning that the camp offers.

Activities in Keystone Camp

Activities at Keystone Camp

Keystone Camp offers a broad and exciting array of activities that cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring that every camper finds something they enjoy. Additionally, the camp fosters a rich tradition of special events and provides numerous opportunities for skill development.

List of Activities Offered

Campers at Keystone Camp can choose from an extensive selection of activities, including:

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, rock climbing, and camping.
Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking in the camp’s private lake.
Equestrian: Horseback riding lessons and trail rides.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, jewelry making, and more.
Performing Arts: Dance, drama, and music.
Sports: Archery, tennis, soccer, and basketball.
Nature and Science: Gardening, nature walks, and astronomy.

Special Events or Traditions

Keystone Camp is rich in traditions and special events that highlight the camping season. Some of the most beloved include:

Opening Day Ceremony: A welcome event that introduces campers to the camp’s history and traditions.
Campfires: Regular campfire nights featuring songs, stories, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities.
End-of-Summer Banquet and Awards Night: A formal dinner followed by a ceremony where campers are recognized for their achievements and growth.

Skill Development Opportunities

Keystone Camp places a strong emphasis on personal growth and skill development. Each activity is designed not only for enjoyment but also to enhance specific skills. For example:

Leadership and Teamwork: Through group sports and team-based activities.
Confidence and Independence: By encouraging campers to try new activities and take on challenges.
Creativity and Expression: Through arts and crafts, as well as performing arts programs.
Environmental Awareness: By engaging with nature and participating in ecological projects.

These activities and experiences at Keystone Camp are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers not only have fun but also learn valuable life skills, make lasting friendships, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

The staff of Keystone Camp

Keystone Camp is committed to providing a high-quality, safe, and enjoyable camp experience for every camper. This commitment is reflected in the careful selection and training of its staff, ensuring that they are not only qualified but also passionate about making a positive impact on the campers they serve.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Keystone Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and better supervision. This ratio allows staff members to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, providing a supportive and nurturing environment. Typically, the ratio is structured to ensure one staff member for every four to six campers, which aligns with best practices in the camp industry for residential camps.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Keystone Camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including universities, teacher recommendations, and through referrals from within the camp community. Potential staff members are often those who have a background in education, child development, or specific activity expertise relevant to the camp’s programs.
Interviews and Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo a rigorous interview process and must pass comprehensive background checks. This process helps ensure that only those who are trustworthy and capable are selected.
Experience and Skills: Preference is given to candidates who have previous experience working with children and who possess specific skills in camp activities (e.g., arts and crafts, outdoor sports, etc.). It’s also important that they demonstrate strong interpersonal and leadership skills.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, child psychology, emergency procedures, and specific training for their assigned activities.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or other relevant certifications may be required depending on the staff member’s role at the camp.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions and meetings to refine their skills and address any emerging issues.

The dedicated staff at Keystone Camp are the backbone of the camp experience. They are trained not only to ensure safety and provide high-quality programming but also to create an atmosphere where campers can thrive and feel like they are part of a caring community. This level of commitment to staff excellence helps make Keystone Camp a place where campers can have fun, learn, and grow in a safe and positive environment.

Safety and Health in Keystone Camp

Keystone Camp is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in rigorous safety protocols, well-equipped on-site health facilities, and comprehensive policies for handling emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Trained Staff: All camp staff undergo thorough training in safety protocols, emergency procedures, and first aid.
Activity Safety: Specific safety rules are in place for each activity, especially those involving higher risks like swimming, horseback riding, and rock climbing. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards.
Regular Drills: Emergency drills such as fire, weather, and lockdown are conducted regularly to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures including controlled access points and staff who monitor the camp’s perimeter to ensure campers’ safety at all times.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Keystone Camp has an on-site health center staffed by qualified nurses who are available 24/7. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medications and first aid supplies.
Professional Partnerships: For more serious medical issues, the camp has arrangements with nearby hospitals and medical professionals to ensure quick and comprehensive care.
Mental Health: Mental health professionals are available or on-call to assist campers who may experience homesickness or other emotional challenges.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, staff members are trained to respond immediately, ensuring that the situation is managed promptly and effectively.
Communication with Families: Keystone Camp has a clear policy for communicating with parents or guardians in the event of an emergency involving their child. This includes timely updates and information on the situation and the measures being taken.
Evacuation Plans: The camp has well-defined evacuation plans for natural disasters or other threats, with safe locations designated both on and off camp premises.
Continuous Training: Emergency preparedness is an ongoing effort at Keystone Camp, with staff receiving regular updates and training on new safety protocols and technologies.

The comprehensive safety and health measures at Keystone Camp ensure that parents can feel confident in the care and protection provided to their children, allowing campers to enjoy their summer experiences in a secure and nurturing environment.

Cost and Registration in Keystone Camp

Keystone Camp offers a variety of session options, each with its own pricing structure, to accommodate different family needs and budgets. The registration process is streamlined, and there are clear policies on payments, refunds, and cancellations, as well as opportunities for financial aid.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Keystone Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, the cost includes:

All lodging and meals
All regular camp activities
Equipment used for all programs
Basic medical care at the on-site health center

Additional costs may be associated with special programs or excursions that require extra fees.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through Keystone Camp’s website, where they can fill out forms, choose sessions, and select activities.
Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as spaces fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines for each session are provided on the camps.
Confirmation: Upon completion of registration, families receive a confirmation email with a camper packet that includes a packing list, arrival and departure details, and other essential information.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Keystone Camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. Details and arrangements can be made through the camp’s finance office.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a policy outlining the conditions under which refunds are possible. Typically, a deposit is required at registration, which may be partially or fully non-refundable. Cancellation policies are clearly detailed during the registration process.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase travel insurance to cover potential losses due to unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Keystone Camp offers scholarships based on both merit and financial need. The application process for these scholarships is detailed on the camp’s.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available to families who demonstrate significant financial need. The camp encourages families to apply early for financial aid, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Keystone Camp strives to make its unique and enriching camp experience accessible and affordable to as many families as possible, ensuring a diverse and vibrant camper community each summer.

Cost:

3 Week Session – $6850
6 Day Key White Session – $2175
2 Week Mini Session – $5025
4 Week Session – $8300
2-Week Mini I Session – $5025
2-Week Mini II Session – $5025
6-Day Key Yellow Session – $2175

Parent and Camper Preparation in Keystone Camp

Preparing for camp at Keystone is an exciting time for both campers and their families. Understanding what to pack, knowing the camp’s rules and policies, and having some tips for first-time campers and parents can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and fun experience, here’s a general packing list:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the session duration (laundry services may be available for longer stays), including:
- T-shirts, shorts, and long pants
- Sweaters or jackets for cooler evenings
- Swimwear and beach towels
- Rain gear and waterproof boots
- Comfortable footwear, including hiking boots and flip-flops
Bedding and Linens: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, and bath towels
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent
Gear and Equipment: Flashlight, water bottle, and optional items like cameras or musical instruments
Health and Medication: Any required medications (with clear instructions), health insurance information

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Keystone Camp typically encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are usually not allowed or are only permitted at specific times for particular purposes.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated days to minimize disruptions to the camp program and to help campers adjust to camp life.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is emphasized. Policies regarding behavior, including the handling of conflicts and disciplinary measures, are clearly communicated to both parents and campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn and grow!
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Talking to counselors and making friends can help.
For Parents:
- Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like, focusing on the positive aspects and how they can handle challenges.
- Stay connected through the camp’s communication channels but encourage independence.
- Send letters or care packages to let your camper know you’re thinking of them.

By carefully preparing and understanding what to expect, parents and campers can ensure that their time at Keystone Camp is filled with memorable experiences and personal growth.

Keystone Camp offers a remarkable summer adventure that goes beyond just fun and games. It provides a nurturing environment where young girls learn, grow, and explore in a safe and supportive setting. With its diverse array of activities, dedicated staff, and beautiful location in Brevard, North Carolina, Keystone Camp has been shaping young lives and creating cherished memories for over a century.

Whether it’s through engaging in outdoor adventures, expressing creativity in arts and crafts, or developing new skills in sports and science, campers leave Keystone with increased confidence, lifelong friendships, and a deeper appreciation for nature and community. The camp’s commitment to personal growth and development is evident in every aspect, from the thoughtfully designed programs to the carefully maintained facilities and the robust safety protocols.