Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Camp Gravatt offers a serene retreat in the picturesque setting of Aiken. This camp, located in a region known for its rich history and natural beauty, is conveniently situated near significant landmarks such as the Savannah River and the lush Hitchcock Woods.

Established with a vision of providing a nurturing environment that fosters growth and character development, Camp Gravatt has been a cherished destination for campers since its inception. Over the years, it has evolved into a community where young people can discover their potential and learn valuable life skills.

At the core of Camp Gravatt’s philosophy is a commitment to building a strong, inclusive community. The camp’s mission statement emphasizes personal growth, respect for nature, and the development of lifelong friendships.

Designed to accommodate various age groups, Camp Gravatt offers specialized programs for both boys and girls. Whether it’s adventure-filled summer sessions or insightful leadership workshops, the camp provides a diverse range of activities tailored to nurture the minds and spirits of young individuals from all walks of life.

Join us at Camp Gravatt, where every day is an opportunity to explore, learn, and create unforgettable memories in the great outdoors of South Carolina.

Programs Offered by Camp Gravatt

Camp Gravatt offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups. Each program is structured to provide an enriching experience that combines fun, learning, and personal growth.

1. General Camp Sessions:

Description: These sessions include a variety of activities such as swimming, hiking, canoeing, arts and crafts, and team sports. The aim is to provide a well-rounded camp experience that promotes physical health, creativity, and teamwork.
Length: Typically, these sessions last one or two weeks, providing flexibility for families and a full immersion into camp life for the campers.
Typical Daily Schedule: Mornings usually start with a nature walk or morning exercise, followed by breakfast and a series of planned activities. After lunch, campers might engage in quieter, reflective activities or skill-building workshops. Evenings are for campfires, storytelling, or group games.

2. Specialty Programs:

Arts Camp:
- Description: Focused on creativity, this program allows campers to explore various forms of art, from painting and sculpture to performance arts like dance and drama.
- Length: These sessions can vary, often lasting a week to cater to specific projects or performances.
Sports Camp:
- Description: Ideal for young athletes, this camp focuses on specific sports like soccer, basketball, or tennis, providing training, skill enhancement, and competitive play.
- Length: Sports camps are typically one-week sessions, intense and focused to maximize learning and improvement.
Science Camp:
- Description: Designed for curious minds, this program includes activities like experiments, environmental studies, and hands-on learning in fields such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Length: These sessions generally last for one to two weeks, offering deep dives into scientific topics with expert guidance.

3. Leadership Training Programs:

Description: Aimed at older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills through workshops, team-building activities, and mentoring younger campers.
Length: Leadership training can span from a few weeks to the entire summer, depending on the depth of training and the responsibilities taken on by the participants.

4. Adventure Camp:

Description: For those looking for a thrill, this program offers outdoor adventures such as rock climbing, wilderness survival, and extended hiking expeditions.
Length: Typically, these adventurous sessions last for two weeks, providing enough time for significant excursions and skill mastery.

At Camp Gravatt, each day is structured to ensure campers are engaged, learning, and having fun in a safe and supportive environment. With a mix of structured activities and free time, campers have the opportunity to explore their interests, meet new friends, and build memories that will last a lifetime.

Accommodations in Camp Gravatt

Camp Gravatt is equipped with a variety of accommodations designed to ensure comfort and a genuine camp experience for all participants. Here’s an overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at the camp.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Gravatt is rustic yet comfortable cabins. These cabins are designed to blend into the natural surroundings and provide a cozy living space for campers. Each cabin houses multiple campers and is typically segmented by age group and gender to ensure comfort and safety. They are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and lighting.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure Camp, there might be opportunities to sleep in tents. This is part of the adventure experience, allowing campers to learn about outdoor living and survival skills in a controlled and safe environment.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Gravatt offers a communal dining experience with meals served in a large dining hall. The meal plan includes three well-balanced meals per day, crafted to provide the energy needed for an active day at camp. Menus are varied to cater to different tastes and provide a wholesome diet.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all campers, Camp Gravatt is committed to accommodating special dietary needs. Whether it’s allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other specific dietary requirements, the camp kitchen can adjust menus accordingly. Parents are encouraged to communicate any dietary restrictions during the registration process to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located for easy access from all cabins and activity areas. The facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. Each bathroom unit is equipped with multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate the campers, and the shower areas provide privacy with individual stalls.
Accessibility: Camp Gravatt is equipped to handle the needs of campers requiring special accommodations. This includes accessible bathroom and shower facilities to ensure that all campers, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy their camp experience comfortably.

Overall, Camp Gravatt aims to provide a homely and secure environment for all campers, making their stay enjoyable and comfortable while they participate in the enriching activities and programs offered by the camp.

Activities in Camp Gravatt

Camp Gravatt is a vibrant hub of activities designed to cater to various interests and promote skill development among campers. Here’s a comprehensive look at the regular activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Summer camps feature a swimming area where campers can enjoy supervised swimming sessions, learn water safety and improve their swimming skills.
Hiking: With trails around the camp and in nearby natural reserves, hiking is a popular activity that helps campers learn about local flora and fauna and enjoy the great outdoors.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions are held regularly, allowing campers to express their creativity through various mediums such as painting, pottery, and more.
Sports: A variety of sports are available, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis, helping campers develop physical fitness and teamwork skills.
Canoeing: On the water, campers can learn canoeing, fostering skills in teamwork and coordination while exploring the local waterways.
Archery: This activity teaches focus, precision, and safety, offering a challenging yet fun experience for campers.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to educate campers about conservation and nature, involving interactive lessons and practical, hands-on activities.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires: Regular campfire nights are a staple, featuring storytelling, s’mores, singing, and skits, which foster a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: An annual event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various challenges, promoting spirit, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of their peers, encouraging confidence and entertainment.
Theme Days: These special days involve activities and dress-up around specific themes, adding a fun and creative twist to the camp routine.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Programs: Older campers can participate in leadership training, where they learn valuable skills such as conflict resolution, team management, and effective communication.
Survival Skills Workshops: These workshops teach practical skills like fire-building, navigation, and shelter construction, which are crucial for any outdoor enthusiast.
Artistic Development: Through various arts and crafts activities, campers can explore different artistic disciplines, potentially discovering new hobbies or talents.
Environmental Stewardship: Engaging with the camp’s environmental education programs, campers learn about sustainability practices and the importance of protecting natural habitats.

At Camp Gravatt, the range of activities and events ensures that every camper can find something that piques their interest, whether they are looking to try something new, hone a specific skill, or simply enjoy their summer in a dynamic and supportive environment.

The staff of Camp Gravatt

Camp Gravatt is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in the careful selection and training of its staff. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, staff qualifications, and training at Camp Gravatt.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Camp Gravatt maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is around 1 staff member for every 5 to 10 campers, depending on the age group and specific activities. This ratio helps to maintain a safe and supportive environment where every camper’s needs are met.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: The hiring process begins with a thorough recruitment phase, where potential staff members are carefully selected based on their experience, skills, and passion for working with children.
Background Checks: All staff members undergo extensive background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and integrity of the camp environment.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in education, child development, recreation, or related fields. Many are returning staff who have grown up attending the camp themselves or have been part of similar youth programs.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo rigorous training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child behavior management.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided during the pre-camp training sessions if the staff have not already obtained them independently.
Specialized Training: Staff responsible for specific activities such as swimming, archery, or canoeing receive additional training and certifications as required. For example, lifeguards are certified through recognized bodies such as the Red Cross.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training and professional development sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any arising needs or challenges.

The comprehensive preparation and continuous education of the Camp Gravatt staff ensure that all campers have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. The dedication and professionalism of the camp staff are central to creating the warm, engaging, and dynamic environment that Camp Gravatt is known for.

Safety and Health in Camp Gravatt

Camp Gravatt prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, ensuring a secure environment through stringent safety protocols, comprehensive health facilities, and clear emergency response policies. Here’s how Camp Gravatt maintains its commitment to health and safety:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety training, including emergency response drills and scenario-based practice sessions, to prepare them for a range of potential situations.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is led by staff trained in that specific area. Safety gear and procedures are mandatory for activities such as swimming, archery, and rock climbing. Regular equipment checks ensure all gear is in safe working condition.
Safety Rules: Campers are briefed on the first day about safety rules and procedures. These rules are reinforced daily by staff to maintain a high level of safety consciousness among campers.
Supervision: Constant, vigilant supervision is provided by camp staff, who are trained to keep safety as their top priority. The low staff-to-camper ratio helps in maintaining close oversight during all activities.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Gravatt has an on-site health center staffed by qualified health care professionals, such as nurses or EMTs, who are available 24/7. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, with protocols in place for managing more severe cases.
Medications: The health center manages and dispenses all medications for campers to ensure they are administered accurately and on schedule.
Records and Information: Upon arrival, all health records submitted by parents are reviewed by the health staff to be aware of any existing conditions or allergies, ensuring tailored care for each camper.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for various scenarios, including severe weather, fire, injuries, and other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.
Evacuation Procedures: Clear evacuation routes and procedures are established and communicated to all staff and campers. Regular drills ensure that everyone knows how to respond calmly and efficiently in an emergency.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, Camp Gravatt has protocols for communicating with local authorities and emergency services. Additionally, the camp ensures that parents are promptly informed of any significant incidents involving their children.
Coordination with Local Authorities: The camp maintains good relationships with local health and emergency services to ensure quick response times and support during emergencies.

Through these comprehensive safety and health measures, Camp Gravatt ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities worry-free, and parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands.

Cost and Registration in Camp Gravatt

Camp Gravatt strives to make its enriching camp experience accessible and manageable for families. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration process, payment plans, and financial aid options available.

Cost of Attendance:

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Gravatt varies depending on the session length and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees might range from $500 to $1000 per week. These fees typically include all activities, meals, accommodations, and any special events or trips that are part of the program.
What’s Included: The attendance cost covers lodging, food, program materials, and all camp activities. Additional costs might be associated with specific specialty programs or optional extras, like camp merchandise or photographs.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Registration for Camp Gravatt is conducted online through the camps. Families are encouraged to register early as spots are limited and can fill up quickly.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer sessions, with early registration discounts often available. Deadlines for registration are usually set a few weeks before the start of each session, but it is advisable to check the camp’s website for specific dates.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family budgets, Camp Gravatt offers payment plans that allow the camp fees to be paid in installments over a period of time leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: The camp has a refund policy in place, which typically allows for a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only a partial refund might be offered, depending on the circumstances.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation, families are encouraged to notify the camp as early as possible. The specific details of the cancellation policy, including any applicable fees, are clearly outlined during the registration process.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Availability: Camp Gravatt is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible and offers scholarships and financial aid to families who need financial assistance.
Application Process: To apply for a scholarship, families must complete a financial aid application, available on the camp’s website, and submit it by the specified deadline. This application requires documentation of financial need.
Allocation: Scholarships are typically awarded based on financial need, the availability of funds, and on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority may be given to applications received early in the registration period.

Camp Gravatt’s inclusive approach ensures that financial constraints do not prevent any child from experiencing the joy and learning opportunities that the camp offers. Families are encouraged to explore these options and reach out to the camp administration for any assistance during the registration process.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Gravatt

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, here’s a detailed guide on what to pack, the camp’s rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the duration of the camp, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, and a waterproof jacket. Don’t forget a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy shoes for hiking, plus sandals for showers.
Bedding: Include a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the camp’s requirements), along with a pillow.
Toiletries: Bring all necessary toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Mosquito repellent is also essential.
Medications: Any required medications need to be clearly labeled with the camper’s name and dosage instructions. These should be handed over to the camp health center upon arrival.
Supplies: Consider packing a flashlight, batteries, a water bottle, and any necessary personal items. A notebook and pen can be useful for writing down memories.
Optional Items: Cameras (disposable ones are great for younger kids), books, and small games or cards can be included for downtime.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Gravatt encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed or their use is highly restricted.
Visitation: Parents are generally not allowed to visit during the session to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics. Specific visitation days might be organized by the camp for longer sessions.
Behavioral Expectations: The camp has clear rules regarding behavior, which include respecting fellow campers, staff, and camp property. Bullying, violence, or any form of disrespect is not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Preparation: Discuss what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help alleviate any anxiety.
Communication: Explain how letters can be exchanged during their time away. Pre-address and stamp envelopes for younger campers who may want to write home.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the upcoming adventure.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel a bit anxious about a first camp experience. Talk openly about these feelings and reassure each other.
Setting Expectations: Discuss the camp’s schedule, activities, and rules to set realistic expectations about daily life at camp.

By preparing thoroughly and understanding the camp’s guidelines, both parents and campers can feel more confident and excited about the upcoming camp experience at Camp Gravatt. This preparation helps ensure that the time spent at camp is both fun and fulfilling, creating lasting memories.

Camp Gravatt offers a rich and engaging summer experience that fosters growth, learning, and fun in a safe and supportive environment. With a wide range of activities tailored to various interests and age groups, campers have the opportunity to explore their passions, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and personal development ensures that each camper enjoys a rewarding experience.

The dedicated staff, comprehensive facilities, and carefully crafted programs at Camp Gravatt reflect its mission to create an inclusive community where every child can thrive. Whether it’s through exciting outdoor adventures, creative arts, or team sports, Camp Gravatt is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where young individuals grow into confident and responsible members of their communities.