Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Brevard, North Carolina, Rockbrook Summer Camp provides a unique summer camp experience for girls ages 6 to 16. Founded in 1921, this historic camp is located on a scenic campus surrounded by lush forest, a tranquil lake, and the whispering sounds of Rockbrook Creek. Their picturesque setting not only enhances the beauty of everyday activities but also contributes to the adventurous spirit of the camp.

Rockbrook Summer Camp is more than just a place for summer fun; it’s a community rooted in the philosophy of fostering independence and self-expression. Their mission is to provide a nurturing environment where girls can explore their interests, discover new passions, and create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. They believe in the joys of childhood, the power of play, and the fundamental value of growing in a supportive, girl-centered community.

As an all-girls camp, Rockbrook Summer Camp offers a diverse array of activities ranging from arts and crafts, horseback riding, and sports, to water activities and adventure sports. Their program is designed to encourage girls to challenge themselves, develop confidence, and above all, have fun. Each camper’s experience is shaped by their own choices, allowing them to craft a summer that truly reflects their interests.

Join us at Rockbrook Summer Camp, where the magic of childhood is embraced, and every day brings a new adventure!

Programs Offered by Rockbrook Summer Camp

At Rockbrook Summer Camp, they offer a variety of programs that cater to different interests and time commitments, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

Length of Sessions

Mini Sessions: Perfect for first-timers, these one-week sessions offer a taste of all that Rockbrook has to offer.
Regular Sessions: These are available as two-week or four-week options, giving girls the chance to immerse themselves more fully in camp life and develop deeper connections.
Full Summer: For the ultimate Rockbrook experience, campers can stay for the full summer, combining multiple sessions for a comprehensive and fulfilling camp adventure.

Specialty Programs

Rockbrook provides a wide range of specialty programs that appeal to various interests:

Arts: Campers can explore their creativity through activities like pottery, jewelry making, weaving, and painting. Their arts programs encourage self-expression and artistic exploration.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including archery, gymnastics, soccer, and tennis. These activities focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Adventure: For thrill-seekers, their adventure programs include rock climbing, hiking, and zip-lining through the beautiful terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Water Activities: Located next to a lake, Rockbrook provides ample opportunities for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Science and Nature: Campers can engage in environmental education, exploring the local flora and fauna, conducting simple experiments, and learning about sustainability.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Rockbrook Summer Camp is structured to provide a balance of activities, free time, and community gatherings. Here’s what a typical day looks like:

Morning:
- Wake up and cabin cleanup
- Breakfast in the dining hall
- Morning Assembly with songs and announcements
- First and second activity periods (campers attend pre-chosen activities)
Afternoon:
- Lunch and rest hour
- Third and fourth activity periods (free choice activities)
- Free swim or lake time
Evening:
- Dinner in the dining hall
- Evening program (varies daily, could be a campfire, talent show, or themed party)
- Cabin time and lights out

This daily schedule allows campers to engage deeply with their chosen activities while also providing ample time for relaxation and socialization, ensuring they have a well-rounded and enjoyable camp experience.

Accommodations in Rockbrook Summer Camp

Sleeping Arrangements

At Rockbrook Summer Camp, campers stay in charming wooden cabins that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings of the Blue Ridge Mountains. These cabins are rustic yet comfortable, designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among campers. Each cabin houses between 8 to 10 campers and 2 counselors, providing a cozy and supportive living environment. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Screened windows allow for natural ventilation while keeping the elements out, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.

Dining Options

Rockbrook Summer Camp prides itself on its dining services, which include three well-balanced meals each day, served in their communal dining hall. The atmosphere is lively and fosters a sense of community, with campers and staff eating together. They are committed to accommodating various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies, ensuring that all campers have nutritious and enjoyable meal options. Their kitchen staff is skilled at creating diverse menus that are not only healthy but also delicious, ensuring that meals are something every camper looks forward to.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are communal, separated by age group, and are maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. The bathrooms are equipped with flush toilets, and the showers offer privacy with individual stalls, including changing areas and secure doors. Hot water is available, and the facilities are checked and cleaned multiple times throughout the day to ensure they remain clean and pleasant for all campers.

At Rockbrook Summer Camp they strive to make the accommodations as comfortable and accommodating as possible, ensuring that all campers can enjoy their stay and focus on the fun and learning experiences that camp provides.

Activities in Rockbrook Summer Camp

Rockbrook Summer Camp offers a diverse range of activities designed to engage every camper according to her interests and to encourage the development of new skills. Here’s an overview of what campers can enjoy:

List of Activities Offered

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Adventure Sports: Rock climbing, hiking, zip-lining, and backpacking.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, weaving, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music.
Sports: Archery, gymnastics, soccer, tennis, and horseback riding.
Nature Exploration: Environmental education and exploration activities around the camp’s vast natural setting.

Special Events or Traditions

Rockbrook is rich in traditions that enhance the camp experience and build a strong sense of community among campers. Some of these include:

Opening Day Parade: A fun and festive welcome that helps new and returning campers settle in.
Spirit Fire: An evening of songs, stories, and reflections by the campfire, held at the end of each session to celebrate the time spent together.
Banquet: Organized by the oldest campers, this themed dinner party features decorations, costumes, and a special menu, providing a memorable end to the session.
Muffin Break: A beloved daily tradition where campers enjoy freshly-baked muffins, taking a break between their morning activities.

Skill Development Opportunities

Rockbrook’s activity programs are designed not only for fun but also for building skills and confidence. Campers have the opportunity to progress in various activities, guided by experienced instructors. For example:

Arts and Crafts: Campers can advance from basic techniques to more complex projects, developing their artistic skills.
Sports and Adventure: Each sport or adventure activity offers different levels of challenge, allowing campers to advance at their own pace, and building physical and mental skills.
Performing Arts: Campers interested in drama, dance, or music can participate in performances, improving their artistic expression and stage presence.
Leadership and Teamwork: Many activities are designed to enhance leadership qualities and promote teamwork, important skills that campers take away from their camp experience.

Through these activities, Rockbrook Summer Camp aims to provide a fun, enriching, and developmental experience that campers remember for a lifetime.

The staff of Rockbrook Summer Camp

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Rockbrook Summer Camp prioritizes a high level of supervision and personal attention to each camper by maintaining a low staff-to-camper ratio. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member to every 3 campers. This ensures that each camper receives individual attention and care, enhancing both safety and the overall camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Rockbrook Summer Camp takes great care in selecting staff through a rigorous hiring process that includes multiple interviews, thorough reference checks, and background checks. Candidates are chosen not only for their skills and experience in specific activities but also for their character, enthusiasm, and commitment to the development of children. Staff members often include teachers, graduate students, and professionals in various fields, as well as college students from leading universities. Many are former campers themselves who are deeply familiar with Rockbrook’s culture and philosophy.

Training and Certifications

All Rockbrook staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers all aspects of camp life, from activity leadership to emergency procedures. This training ensures that all staff are prepared to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for campers. In addition to general training, many staff members hold specific certifications relevant to their roles, including:

CPR and First Aid: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any health emergencies.
Lifeguarding: Staff involved in water activities are certified lifeguards, ensuring that all swimming and boating activities are conducted safely.
Specialty Areas: Instructors for specialized activities like horseback riding, rock climbing, and other adventure sports hold relevant certifications and have substantial experience in their fields.

Rockbrook Summer Camp also ensures that its staff are equipped with the skills necessary to foster a positive and inclusive camp environment, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and the ability to mentor young individuals. This thorough approach to staffing ensures that Rockbrook Summer Camp is a place where campers not only have fun and learn new skills but also feel safe, understood, and valued.

Safety and Health in Rockbrook Summer Camp

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Rockbrook Summer Camp prioritizes the safety of all campers and staff by implementing stringent safety protocols and procedures across all activities and areas of the camp. These include:

Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity has its own set of safety guidelines, which are rigorously taught to and enforced among the campers. For instance, adventure sports participants are required to wear appropriate safety gear and water activities are supervised by certified lifeguards.
Regular Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular drills for various potential emergencies, including fire, severe weather, and lockdown procedures, ensuring that both staff and campers are prepared to act swiftly and appropriately.
Restricted Access and Supervision: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. Campers are always supervised by trained staff members, whether during activities, meals, or rest periods.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Rockbrook is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to manage chronic conditions with:

24/7 Availability: The health center operates around the clock, ensuring that medical care is available at any time, day or night.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions.
Isolation Areas: For illnesses that may be contagious, there are designated isolation areas to prevent the spread of infections within the camp community.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Rockbrook has comprehensive emergency response plans in place, which are communicated to all staff members. These plans include:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, staff members are trained to respond immediately, providing first aid and stabilizing the situation while the emergency services are contacted if necessary.
Emergency Services Coordination: The camp maintains close communication with local emergency services, such as fire departments, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies, to ensure a swift response when external assistance is required.
Communication with Families: Rockbrook has a clear communication policy to inform families in the event of an emergency involving their child, detailing the nature of the emergency and the steps being taken.

These robust health and safety measures at Rockbrook Summer Camp ensure that the environment is not only fun and enriching but also secure and responsive to the needs of all campers and staff.

Cost and Registration in Rockbrook Summer Camp

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Rockbrook Summer Camp varies depending on the length of the session chosen by the camper. The fees typically cover all aspects of the camp experience, including:

Lodging: Comfortable accommodation in camp cabins.
Meals: Three nutritious meals per day, along with snacks.
Activities: Access to all camp activities, including supplies for crafts and sports equipment.
Program Materials: All necessary materials for various programs and events.
Health Services: On-site medical care and basic health services.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration for Rockbrook Summer Camp typically opens in the fall for the following summer sessions. Families are encouraged to register early as spots fill up quickly due to high demand. The registration process involves:

Online Application: Completing an online application form on Rockbrook.
Deposit: A deposit is required at the time of registration to secure the camper’s spot.
Health and Consent Forms: Submission of health information and consent forms closer to the start of the camp session.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Rockbrook understands that planning for summer camp is a significant financial commitment and offers several options to assist families:

Payment Plans: Flexible payment plans are available, allowing families to spread the cost of camp over several months.
Refunds: The camp typically offers a refund of fees (excluding the deposit) if cancellation occurs by a certain date before the camp session begins. Specific details of the refund policy are provided during registration.
Cancellation Policy: In cases of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, Rockbrook works with families to find the best solution, which may include transferring registration to the next summer.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Rockbrook is committed to making camp accessible to as many girls as possible and offers a limited number of scholarships and financial aid packages each year. These are awarded based on financial need and other factors.

Rockbrook Summer Camp offers various session lengths and specialty camps, all with different fees. Here’s a breakdown of their pricing:

Main Camp Sessions (2nd-10th grade):
- Early Summer Session (First Session): $6300
- Mid-Summer Sessions (Second Session): $7800
- July Mini Sessions (K-6th grade): $4650
- Third Session (K-10th grade): Fee not listed yet
Specialty Horse Camp (Requires experience, 7th-10th grade): $2500

Parent and Camper Preparation in Rockbrook Summer Camp

Preparing for summer camp can be an exciting time for both parents and campers, especially if it’s their first experience. Rockbrook Summer Camp provides detailed guidance to ensure everyone is well-prepared.

Packing List

Rockbrook provides a comprehensive packing list that includes:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, and warmer layers for cooler evenings. Waterproof jackets and sturdy footwear for outdoor activities are essential.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or bed linens for the size of the camper’s bunk and a pillow.
Toiletries: Basic hygiene products, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and, importantly, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Equipment: Any specific gear required for special activities like horseback riding helmets or hiking boots, if not provided by the camp.
Optional Items: Books, stationary, and a camera (non-digital for those wishing to disconnect).

Rules and Policies

Rockbrook encourages a healthy and safe environment for all campers with clear rules and policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, campers are not allowed to bring cell phones, tablets, or other electronic devices. This helps promote a more immersive camp experience.
Visitation: For the security and routine of the campers, visitation during sessions is generally restricted. Parents are encouraged to communicate through letters and emails and are welcome on designated visiting days.
Behavior Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is paramount. Campers are expected to participate actively and positively in camp activities and community life.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, Rockbrook offers several tips to make the transition easier:

Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made. Encourage your camper to express any concerns and discuss them openly.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they will use at camp, like making the bed, organizing their belongings, and choosing their clothes.
Set Realistic Expectations: It’s normal to feel homesick. Discuss these feelings and reassure your camper that it’s okay to miss home and that they will have plenty of support at camp.
Stay Positive: As the departure day approaches, maintain a positive and excited tone when talking about camp. This can help ease any nervousness your child might feel.

By preparing properly and understanding what to expect, both parents and campers can ensure that the experience at Rockbrook Summer Camp is as enjoyable and enriching as possible.

Rockbrook Summer Camp offers a remarkable and enriching experience tailored to nurture growth, foster independence, and build lasting friendships in the beautiful setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With a vast array of activities ranging from arts and crafts to adventure sports, coupled with comprehensive safety protocols and dedicated staff, Rockbrook ensures a summer filled with fun, learning, and adventure.

The camp’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment allows every camper to thrive and explore their interests. Whether it’s a camper’s first summer or they are returning for another unforgettable season, Rockbrook provides an ideal backdrop for girls to discover new passions, gain valuable life skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime.