Camp Cole Eastover SC

Welcome to Camp Cole, a remarkable retreat nestled in the scenic surroundings of Eastover, South Carolina. This enchanting camp is strategically located near Columbia, making it an accessible sanctuary not far from the bustling city life. It offers a tranquil environment where notable landmarks like the Congaree National Park serve as a backdrop to the enriching experiences campers enjoy.

Founded with a heartfelt mission, Camp Cole was established as a place of healing and growth, embodying the philosophy that everyone deserves the chance to experience the joys of camp, regardless of their physical, medical, or financial circumstances. This ethos drives every activity and program offered here, ensuring that each camper finds a welcoming, supportive community.

Camp Cole is a facility that serves a diverse age group, welcoming children and adults alike. It specializes in providing a nurturing environment for those with serious illnesses, disabilities, and other life challenges, making it unique among outdoor recreational spaces. The camp is designed to offer programs that are not only fun but also empowering, fostering a sense of accomplishment, resilience, and camaraderie among its attendees.

Whether you’re looking for a summer adventure, a family retreat, or a specialized program tailored to specific needs, Camp Cole offers an inclusive, adaptive, and joyful experience that cherishes the individuality and potential of every camper. Join us to discover a place where extraordinary moments happen, and lifelong memories are made.

Programs Offered by Camp Cole

Camp Cole offers a variety of enriching programs designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of its campers. Each program is thoughtfully crafted to ensure that every participant enjoys a fulfilling and memorable experience. Here’s an overview of the programs available:

General Camp Programs

• Session Length: These programs typically run for one or two weeks during the summer. Each session is packed with activities that promote physical, emotional, and social growth.
  
• Activities Included: Campers can engage in traditional camp activities like swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, and team sports. These activities are adapted to be inclusive for all ability levels, ensuring every camper can participate fully.

Specialty Programs

• Arts Programs: These sessions focus on creativity and expression through various forms of art, including painting, sculpture, and performance arts. The goal is to nurture creativity and confidence in a supportive environment.
  
• Sports Programs: Tailored for sports enthusiasts of all abilities, these programs include instruction and games in a variety of sports, emphasizing teamwork, skill development, and fun.
  
• Science and Nature Programs: These sessions are designed to spark curiosity and love for science and the natural world. Activities might include hands-on experiments, nature walks, and educational talks by guest speakers.

Typical Daily Schedule

• Morning:
  • Wake-up and breakfast
  • Morning assembly
  • Activity Session 1 (e.g., arts and crafts or a nature hike)
• Midday:
  • Lunch and rest period
  • Activity Session 2 (e.g., swimming or sports)
• Afternoon:
  • Free time or elective activities (campers choose based on their interests)
  • Snack and group games
• Evening:
  • Dinner
  • Evening program (e.g., campfire, talent show, or night walk)
  • Bedtime routine

Unique Offerings

• Therapeutic Recreation: Designed specifically for campers with special needs, these programs incorporate therapeutic activities that promote physical health, mental well-being, and social skills.
  
• Family Camps: These sessions allow families to experience the magic of Camp Cole together, providing a safe and fun environment for bonding and recreation.

Each program at Camp Cole is designed with accessibility and inclusivity at its core, ensuring that every camper, regardless of their circumstances, can engage fully and have an incredible camp experience.

Accommodations in Camp Cole

Camp Cole is well-equipped to provide comfortable and accessible accommodations for all campers, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay without worries. Here’s a detailed look at the accommodations available at Camp Cole:

Sleeping Arrangements

• Cabins: Campers are housed in cozy, well-constructed cabins that blend rustic charm with modern accessibility features. Each cabin is climate-controlled and designed to accommodate campers with various needs. Cabins are typically organized by age group and program type to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among similar campers.
  
• Special Accommodations: For those who require them, there are cabins equipped with special medical facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of campers with specific health requirements.

Dining Options

• Meal Plans: Camp Cole offers a full meal service that includes three balanced meals per day, along with scheduled snack times to keep campers energized. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and socialize, enhancing the camp community spirit.
  
• Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Cole provides meal options that accommodate allergies, dietary restrictions, and preferences. Whether a camper requires gluten-free, lactose-free, vegetarian, or vegan options, the camp ensures that these needs are met with delicious and nutritious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

• Facilities: The bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Cole are designed to be accessible and convenient. Each cabin cluster has its own dedicated bathroom and shower facility nearby, which are equipped with modern amenities and adapted for campers with disabilities. These facilities are maintained to high standards of cleanliness and functionality to ensure comfort and hygiene for all campers.
  
• Privacy and Accessibility: Privacy and accessibility are key considerations in the design of these facilities. Individual stalls and showers offer privacy, while features like grab bars and non-slip surfaces ensure safety and accessibility for campers who require assistance.

Camp Cole’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that every camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable, allowing them to focus fully on the fun and growth opportunities that the camp experience provides.

Activities in Camp Cole

Camp Cole provides a vibrant array of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development, designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities. Here’s an overview of the enriching experiences available:

List of Activities Offered

• Swimming: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in a fully accessible pool, with lifeguards always on duty to ensure safety.
• Hiking: Guided hikes through local trails offer campers a chance to explore the natural beauty surrounding the camp.
• Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities allow campers to express their creativity through different mediums like painting, pottery, and more.
• Sports: Facilities cater to a range of sports, including basketball, volleyball, and adapted sports for campers with physical limitations.
• Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on the camp’s lake provide fun and exciting ways to learn paddling skills.
• Fishing: Campers can enjoy the tranquility of fishing at the camp’s fully stocked pond.
• Archery: This activity is designed to improve concentration and hand-eye coordination, with safety and instruction provided by experienced staff.
• Music and Drama: Campers can participate in music sessions and drama activities, culminating in performances for their fellow campers.

Special Events or Traditions

• Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
• Color Wars: This camp-wide competition is a favorite, featuring various athletic and creative contests that promote team spirit and healthy competition.
• Talent Shows: Campers are encouraged to showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, magic, or other skills, creating a supportive environment for expression.
• Theme Days: Special theme days, like Superhero Day or Backwards Day, add a fun and whimsical twist to the camp schedule.

Skill Development Opportunities

• Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for roles such as camp counselors or leaders in their communities.
• Environmental Education: Programs that focus on nature conservation and sustainability educate campers about environmental stewardship.
• Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops on topics like communication, teamwork, and self-confidence help campers develop important life skills.

Camp Cole is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive environment where every camper can find activities that excite them and opportunities to grow both personally and socially. This holistic approach ensures a rewarding and enriching camp experience for all attendees.

The staff of Camp Cole

Camp Cole is committed to ensuring a safe, supportive, and professional environment for all campers through a highly qualified and well-trained staff. Here’s an overview of the staffing details, including ratios, hiring practices, and training:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

• General Staffing: Camp Cole maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and care. The exact ratio varies by program but typically ranges from 1:5 to 1:8, allowing staff to effectively oversee and engage with each camper.
  
• Special Needs Programs: For programs catering to campers with specific medical or physical needs, the ratio is adjusted to ensure even more personalized care, often around 1:3 or 1:4.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

• Recruitment: Staff are carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes multiple interviews, background checks, and reference verifications. This ensures that only the most dedicated and capable individuals join the team.
  
• Qualifications: All staff members are required to have relevant experience or education in fields such as education, recreation, psychology, or social work. Those working directly with special needs programs often have additional qualifications or experience in special education or therapeutic recreation.

Training and Certifications

• Mandatory Certifications: All staff members must be certified in CPR and First Aid as a basic requirement. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
  
• Ongoing Training: Camp Cole provides comprehensive pre-camp training that covers emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, inclusivity training, and specific program activities. This training ensures that staff are prepared to handle a variety of situations and can provide the best possible experience for campers.
  
• Specialized Training: Staff working with campers who have serious illnesses or disabilities receive specialized training to meet those campers’ unique needs. This includes instruction on handling specific medical equipment, understanding the implications of various disabilities, and implementing adaptive activities.

Through these meticulous staffing practices, Camp Cole ensures that every camper benefits from a nurturing, enjoyable, and safe camp experience. The staff’s dedication and expertise are central to creating an environment where every child can thrive and enjoy all that camp has to offer.

Safety and Health in Camp Cole

Camp Cole prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing stringent protocols and maintaining robust facilities to handle any situation that may arise. Here’s an outline of the safety and health measures in place:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

• Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify potential hazards and implement preventative measures. These assessments cover all aspects of camp operations, from daily activities to the camp’s physical environment.
  
• Emergency Drills: Camp Cole regularly conducts drills for various emergency scenarios, including fire, severe weather, and lockdowns, to ensure that both campers and staff are well-prepared to respond appropriately.
  
• Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff trained in that specific area, and all equipment is regularly inspected for safety. Guidelines and safety rules are strictly enforced during all activities to prevent accidents.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

• Health Center: Camp Cole is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during specific sessions, a visiting doctor.
  
• Capabilities: The health center is capable of treating minor injuries and illnesses and is equipped to stabilize individuals with more serious conditions until they can be transported to a hospital. It also manages medications for campers who require them, ensuring that they are safely stored and administered.
  
• Accessibility: The health center is centrally located and easily accessible from all areas of the camp, making it quick to reach in case of an emergency.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

• Communication: In the event of a major emergency, Camp Cole has a clear communication plan that includes notifying parents, coordinating with local emergency services, and providing updates as needed.
  
• Local Partnerships: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, medical) to ensure a rapid response to any serious incidents. This includes pre-planned routes and protocols for evacuation if necessary.
  
• Training for Unforeseen Situations: Staff members receive training not only in responding to medical emergencies but also in handling unforeseen situations such as lost campers or unexpected severe weather. This comprehensive preparation ensures readiness for a wide range of potential scenarios.

Through these meticulous safety and health measures, Camp Cole ensures a secure environment where parents can feel confident in the safety of their children, and campers can focus on enjoying their camp experience without concerns.

Cost and Registration in Camp Cole

Camp Cole is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive camp experience. Understanding the financial considerations of families, the camp offers a detailed and transparent cost structure, various payment options, and financial aid to ensure that all interested campers have the opportunity to attend. Here’s a breakdown of the cost, registration process, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance

• Cost Structure: The cost of attending Camp Cole varies depending on the session length and program type. Generally, fees cover all necessary expenses during the camp, including lodging, meals, activities, and any special program materials.
  
• What’s Included: The fee includes accommodation in well-maintained cabins, all meals (with consideration for dietary restrictions), full participation in chosen camp activities, and round-the-clock supervision and care by trained staff.

Prices typically range from $325.

Registration Process and Deadlines

• Registration Steps: Interested families can register for Camp Cole through an online portal available on the camps. The process includes filling out camper information, selecting session preferences, and submitting medical and dietary information.
  
• Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer sessions and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as some programs fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are clearly communicated on the camp’s and through promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

• Payment Plans: Camp Cole offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. These plans allow payments to be spread out over several months leading up to the camp session.
  
• Refunds and Cancellation: The camp’s refund policy includes a full refund up to a certain date, beyond which a cancellation fee may apply. Specific details are provided during the registration process. In cases of cancellation due to medical reasons, the camp often works with families on a case-by-case basis to determine the best solution.
  
• Emergency Cancellations: In the event that Camp Cole must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather or health emergencies, full refunds or alternative session options are offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Scholarships: Camp Cole offers scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These scholarships are typically awarded based on financial need and sometimes merit or specific criteria such as leadership potential or community involvement.
  
• Application for Aid: Families seeking financial aid can apply through a separate process detailed on the camp’s. This process includes submitting financial information and a statement of need. Confidentiality is strictly maintained throughout.

Camp Cole strives to make its enriching programs available to as many children as possible, believing that financial barriers should not prevent a child from experiencing the joy and growth that camp provides.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Cole

Preparing for a camp experience at Camp Cole involves several steps for both parents and campers to ensure everyone is ready for a fun, safe, and comfortable time. Below are details on the packing list, camp rules, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

• Clothing: Pack enough comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for the entire stay, including:
  • T-shirts, shorts, and long pants
  • Swimwear and a beach towel
  • A jacket or sweatshirt for cooler evenings
  • Sturdy footwear (sneakers and/or hiking boots), plus sandals or flip-flops
• Bedding and Toiletries: Include a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the camp’s specifications), pillow, towels, and personal hygiene items like toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap.
• Miscellaneous Items:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Water bottle
  • Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
  • Any necessary medications with clear instructions for administration

Rules and Policies

• Technology Use: Camp Cole typically encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually collected upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.
  
• Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, parents are generally not allowed to visit during the session, except on designated visiting days or unless pre-arranged with camp administration.
  
• Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, participate in scheduled activities, and respect both peers and staff. Bullying, physical violence, or possession of prohibited items (like weapons or drugs) are grounds for dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

• For Campers:
  • Be open to new experiences and make an effort to meet new people.
  • Participate actively and try out activities that might be outside of your usual interests.
  • Communicate with camp staff if you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns. They’re there to help!
• For Parents:
  • Discuss what camp will be like well ahead of time, focusing on the exciting opportunities and the daily schedule.
  • Pack together with your camper to ensure they know what they’re bringing and can find everything easily.
  • Write letters or prepare pre-written notes to leave with your child, offering words of encouragement and reminders of home.

By preparing effectively and understanding the camp’s guidelines, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, making the most of the enriching experiences Camp Cole has to offer.

Camp Cole stands out as a beacon of joy, growth, and inclusion, offering a safe and supportive environment where campers of all abilities can thrive. From the diverse range of activities and programs designed to cater to various interests and needs, to the carefully structured safety protocols and health facilities, Camp Cole ensures a holistic and enriching camp experience. The camp’s commitment to accessibility and community is evident in its flexible payment options, scholarships, and the meticulous attention to camper and staff training.

As families consider Camp Cole for their summer adventures, they can rest assured that their children will not only have a fun and memorable time but will also gain valuable life skills, forge new friendships, and develop a greater sense of independence and confidence. Camp Cole is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where extraordinary moments are crafted, where every camper is valued, and where lifelong memories are made.