Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Marietta, South Carolina, Camp Wabak stands as a beacon of adventure and learning for young girls. This camp, with its rich history dating back several decades, has been a dedicated space where girls can explore nature, develop skills, and build lifelong friendships under the canopy of towering trees and alongside the tranquil waters of nearby landmarks.

Founded with the mission to empower young women through outdoor activities, leadership training, and community living, Camp Wabak is committed to nurturing growth and resilience in a supportive environment. Their philosophy centers on fostering independence, confidence, and teamwork through structured outdoor educational programs.

Camp Wabak is an exclusive girls’ camp, welcoming campers from ages 7 to 17. Each session is carefully crafted to meet the needs and interests of different age groups, ensuring a memorable and impactful experience for all who join their camp family. Here, each camper is encouraged to discover her strengths, push beyond her limits, and embrace the great outdoors. Join us for a summer of adventure where every girl shines!

Programs Offered by Camp Wabak

Camp Wabak offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage, challenge, and inspire young girls in a fun and supportive environment. Whether it’s a short session or a full summer adventure, their programs cater to a variety of interests and age groups.

Description of Programs

Their programs focus on building skills, fostering teamwork, and developing leadership qualities through hands-on activities. From traditional camp experiences like hiking and canoeing to specialty programs in arts, sports, and science, each day at Camp Wabak is filled with excitement and learning opportunities.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who want to experience camp without committing to a longer duration.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a more immersive experience, these sessions allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and community building.
Full Summer Program: For the ultimate camp experience, girls can join the full summer program, which encompasses a series of progressive activities and experiences over several weeks.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program includes everything from painting and pottery to performance arts, allowing campers to express themselves creatively.
Sports: They offer a range of sports programs, including archery, swimming, and team sports, promoting physical health and sportsmanship.
Science: The science program encourages curiosity and exploration, with activities ranging from environmental studies to basic engineering projects.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (rotating schedule of arts, sports, or science)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program or free choice)
5:00 PM: Free time and camp chores
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, stargazing)
9:30 PM: Lights out

This structured schedule ensures that every camper can experience a balanced mix of learning, play, and rest, all while making unforgettable memories and forming lasting friendships at Camp Wabak.

Accommodations in Camp Wabak

Camp Wabak is designed to provide a comfortable and authentic camping experience, offering facilities that blend seamlessly with the natural environment while ensuring camper safety and comfort.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that are nestled among the trees, providing a safe and communal living experience. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers and is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. Cabins are grouped by age to ensure that activities and interactions are age-appropriate.
Tents: For older campers or those participating in specific adventure programs, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive outdoor experience, allowing girls to learn about and practice wilderness camping skills.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Wabak offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by their on-site kitchen staff. Meals are designed to be nutritious and appealing to young campers, providing the energy needed for a busy day of activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Wabak is committed to providing options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Parents can discuss any special dietary requirements with the camp staff prior to arrival to ensure their child’s needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, ensuring easy access for campers. Bathrooms are equipped with multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate the group, and shower areas offer privacy with individual stalls.
Hygiene Standards: High standards of cleanliness are maintained at all times, with facilities cleaned and sanitized daily. Additionally, campers are encouraged to maintain personal hygiene with scheduled times for morning and evening routines.

Camp Wabak’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable and secure, allowing them to focus on enjoying their summer camp experience to the fullest.

Activities in Camp Wabak

Camp Wabak offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and sports, the camp provides a diverse array of choices to cater to all interests.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in their on-site pool or lake, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the camp, with guided hikes that vary in difficulty to suit all age groups.
Crafts: A creative outlet for campers, with activities including pottery, beading, painting, and more.
Archery: Learn the basics of archery or hone your skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle on the tranquil waters near the camp, a great way for campers to learn water safety and paddling techniques.
Nature Workshops: Engage with the environment through educational workshops on local flora and fauna, conservation, and outdoor survival skills.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in drama, dance, and music allow campers to express themselves and work on performances.
Sports: Various sports activities such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball promote physical fitness and teamwork.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Night Campfire: A tradition that welcomes all campers with songs, skits, and introductions, setting the tone for the camp session.
End-of-Session Talent Show: Summer camps can showcase their talents or new skills learned at camp, fostering a supportive atmosphere of pride and accomplishment.
Themed Days: Special days like “Pirate Day” or “Olympics Day” bring fun and imaginative play to the camping experience.
Environmental Stewardship Day: A day dedicated to learning about and participating in environmental conservation efforts around the camp.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in leading groups, problem-solving, and decision-making.
Certification Programs: Opportunities for older campers to earn certifications in first aid, CPR, or lifeguarding, useful both at camp and beyond.
Artistic Development: Professional artists and instructors lead workshops, providing advanced techniques and insights into various art forms.
Adventure Skills: Specialized sessions in orienteering, rock climbing, or wilderness survival, aimed at teaching practical and critical thinking skills in an outdoor setting.

Camp Wabak strives to offer a balanced mix of fun, learning, and personal development, ensuring that every camper leaves with new skills, friends, and unforgettable memories.

The staff of Camp Wabak

At Camp Wabak, they take pride in their dedicated, skilled, and compassionate staff, who play a crucial role in providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. The quality of their staff is integral to the success of their camp programs.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp Wabak maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every six to eight campers, which allows for effective oversight and a more intimate camp environment.
Specialized Activities: For activities that require more intensive instruction or safety measures, such as swimming or archery, the ratio is often lower to ensure that all campers receive the proper instruction and supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They carefully select their staff from a pool of experienced educators, seasoned camp professionals, and enthusiastic university students. Many are former campers themselves or come recommended by trusted educational and recreational organizations.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must pass a comprehensive background check. They look for individuals who not only have relevant experience but also embody the values and mission of Camp Wabak. Special consideration is given to those who have prior experience working with children and who possess specific skills pertinent to the programs offered at camp.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the start of each camp season, all staff undergo a rigorous training program that includes child safety, emergency response, conflict resolution, activity planning, and inclusivity training.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications must be current, and if not, staff are provided with the opportunity to update these certifications prior to the commencement of camp.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff may also hold additional certifications, such as lifeguarding, wilderness first responder, or specific coaching certifications relevant to the activities they lead.

Their staff’s training and dedication ensure that they are not only capable of leading and teaching but also excel in creating an environment where campers feel safe, valued, and excited to participate. Camp Wabak’s commitment to maintaining a highly qualified and trained staff is a cornerstone of its philosophy, supporting their mission to provide outstanding camp experiences.

Safety and Health in Camp Wabak

Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff is a top priority at Camp Wabak. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and maintain well-equipped health facilities to handle any issues that may arise, providing peace of mind for both campers and their families.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Daily Check-Ins: Each day begins and ends with a check-in to ensure all campers are accounted for and in good health.
Activity Safety Briefings: Before participating in any activity, campers receive safety instructions specific to the activity. This includes the use of equipment, understanding of the rules, and the identification of potential hazards.
Regular Drills: Campers and staff regularly participate in safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure everyone knows how to act in an emergency.
Secure Premises: Camp Wabak is secured with controlled access, and staff are trained to monitor who enters and leaves the campgrounds. Visitors are required to check in and receive a visitor’s badge.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp maintains a health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and a consulting physician available on call. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and the management of prescription medications.
24/7 Availability: Their health staff are available around the clock to ensure that any health issues are promptly and effectively addressed.
Wellness Checks: Regular wellness checks are conducted, especially after activities that could lead to dehydration or heat exhaustion.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond immediately, providing first aid and stabilizing the situation while emergency services are called if necessary.
Emergency Contact System: Parents are provided with contact information and protocols for emergencies, including how they will be notified and what steps will be taken in various scenarios.
Evacuation Plans: Detailed evacuation plans are in place for different types of emergencies, including natural disasters. These plans are practiced during drills and can be executed quickly if needed.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Wabak has established relationships with local emergency services, ensuring that additional medical, fire, or law enforcement support can be quickly accessed when required.

By integrating robust safety protocols, maintaining excellent health facilities, and ensuring all staff are well-trained in emergency procedures, Camp Wabak commits to providing a secure and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities with confidence.

Cost and Registration in Camp Wabak

Camp Wabak is committed to providing a transformative camp experience at a reasonable cost. Detailed information on costs, the registration process, and financial support options ensures transparency and assists families in planning their participation.

Cost of Attendance

General Cost: The cost of attending Camp Wabak varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs selected. Costs typically cover all activities, meals, accommodations, and program materials.
Included in the Cost: Tuition includes:
- All camp activities and equipment use
- Three meals per day and snacks
- 24-hour supervision and healthcare
- Camp T-shirt and a photo of the camper’s session group

Prices typically range from $475 – $525 per week.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers. The registration portal opens on a specific date each year and remains open until all spots are filled.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are clearly communicated on the camp and through emails to past participants.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial commitment, Camp Wabak offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: A deposit is required at registration, which is partially refundable up to a specified date. Cancellations after this date may result in a forfeiture of the deposit or a portion of the full payment, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Policy Details: Detailed policies regarding refunds and cancellations are provided at the time of registration to ensure families understand their commitments and potential liabilities.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Wabak offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover a portion or the entirety of the camp fees.
Application for Financial Aid: Families interested in scholarships must complete a financial aid application, providing necessary documentation of financial status.
Deadline for Aid Applications: Like registration, there is a deadline for scholarship applications to ensure fair and timely distribution of funds.

Camp Wabak strives to make its camp experiences accessible and affordable to all families, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent interested and eligible girls from attending. The variety of financial aid options and flexible payment plans reflect Camp Wabak’s commitment to inclusivity and community support.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Wabak

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Camp Wabak provides detailed guidelines to ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the upcoming camp session, making the experience as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and safe experience, Camp Wabak recommends the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable and durable clothes for the session, including long pants, shorts, t-shirts, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat and a swimsuit.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes for general activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Personal Items: Towels, toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.), sunscreen, bug repellent.
Equipment: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, daypack.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, disposable camera (if photography is of interest).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops is restricted to specific times or not allowed at all. Parents are encouraged to discuss this policy with their campers before arrival.
Visitation: Parents and family members can visit on designated days only, typically towards the end of the session, to minimize disruptions to the camp program and dynamics.
Behavior Expectations: Respect, cooperation, and positivity are expected from all campers. Specific guidelines regarding acceptable and unacceptable behavior are provided during orientation.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarization: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Understanding the daily schedule can also help reduce any anxieties.
Communication: Write letters to your camper ahead of time that can be delivered throughout their stay. Reassure them that they can enjoy this new adventure and that you are excited for their stories upon return.
Packing Together: Involve your camper in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the upcoming camp experience.
Setting Expectations: Discuss the camp’s rules and the importance of following them. Explain how these rules help everyone have a great time and stay safe.

By thoroughly preparing, campers and parents can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, making the experience enriching and memorable. Camp Wabak is dedicated to supporting families every step of the way, from preparation to participation.

Camp Wabak stands as a cherished institution where young girls from diverse backgrounds come together to grow, learn, and create lasting memories in the picturesque foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With a robust array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to creative arts and sciences, Camp Wabak nurtures not only the body and mind but also the spirit of each camper.

Their carefully curated programs, coupled with a strong emphasis on safety, inclusivity, and personal development, ensure that every camper is given the opportunity to thrive. The dedicated staff, comprehensive facilities, and supportive community further enhance this enriching experience, making Camp Wabak a place where girls can confidently explore their potential.