Located in the serene region of Middle Tennessee, Camp Garner Creek serves as an idyllic gateway surrounded by natural beauty, just moments away from the historic city of Dickson. This camp, with its sprawling acres of woodland and creek-front views, offers a perfect backdrop for a variety of camping experiences and outdoor adventures.

Founded with a vision to provide a nurturing environment that fosters personal growth and community building, Camp Garner Creek has a storied history of bringing youth together in a supportive, natural setting. Through the years, it has evolved into a community staple where campers not only explore the great outdoors but also cultivate lifelong friendships and skills.

The mission of Camp Garner Creek is deeply rooted in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to discover their potential in a supportive, engaging, and safe environment. Their philosophy centers on nurturing the whole camper and promoting values such as teamwork, respect, and integrity through all of their programs.

Camp Garner Creek offers a range of programs specifically tailored to various age groups, including options for boys, girls, and co-ed groups. Their camps are designed to cater to children and teenagers, providing them with age-appropriate activities that challenge, inspire, and entertain.

Join us at Camp Garner Creek, where the adventure begins and the memories last a lifetime.

Programs Offered by Camp Garner Creek

Camp Garner Creek offers a variety of programs designed to engage campers in meaningful and fun activities while fostering personal growth and community connections. Here’s an overview of the programs and what each entails:

1. Standard Camp Programs

Description: These programs encompass a broad range of activities including outdoor adventures, team sports, arts and crafts, and environmental education. They aim to promote physical activity, creativity, and appreciation for nature.
Length of Sessions: Options include one-week or two-week sessions.
Typical Daily Schedule:
- Morning: Wake-up call, breakfast, and morning assembly
- Mid-morning: Activity rotations (e.g., hiking, canoeing)
- Afternoon: Lunch followed by quiet time, then afternoon activity sessions (e.g., arts and crafts, sports)
- Evening: Dinner, camp-wide games, and evening campfire activities

2. Specialty Programs

Arts Camp:
- Description: Focuses on visual and performing arts including painting, sculpture, drama, and music.
- Session Length: Typically one-week sessions.
Sports Camp:
- Description: Offers intensive coaching in specific sports such as soccer, basketball, and swimming, with an emphasis on skill development and teamwork.
- Session Length: Available as one-week or two-week sessions.
Science Explorer Camp:
- Description: Designed for budding scientists, this program includes activities like hands-on experiments, nature walks, and an introduction to various scientific fields.
- Session Length: One-week sessions focused on different scientific themes.

3. Leadership Development Program

Description: Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through workshops, team-building exercises, and mentoring younger campers.
Length of Sessions: Two-week sessions.
Typical Daily Schedule:
- Morning: Leadership workshops and planning sessions
- Afternoon: Implementing activities with younger campers
- Evening: Reflection sessions and group discussions

4. Adventure Camp

Description: For those seeking a thrill, this program includes activities like rock climbing, advanced hiking, and wilderness survival skills.
Length of Sessions: Two-week sessions that may include overnight excursions.
Typical Daily Schedule:
- Morning to Afternoon: Engage in adventure activities with safety briefings and skilled guidance
- Evening: Camp back at base, prepare meals, and participate in discussions about the day’s learnings

Each program at Camp Garner Creek is designed with the camper’s age, interests, and safety in mind, ensuring a rewarding and memorable summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp Garner Creek

At Camp Garner Creek, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers enjoy a comfortable and safe stay while embracing the rustic charm of outdoor living. Here are the details of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Garner Creek is cabin-style lodging. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and can house 8-12 campers. The cabins are grouped into clusters, with each cluster having a common area where campers can socialize and engage in group activities. Cabins are well-ventilated and equipped with electricity, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure Camp, there are opportunities to sleep in tents during overnight excursions. These are high-quality, weather-resistant tents and all necessary camping gear is provided.
Dorms: For larger groups or special events, dormitory-style accommodations are available. These are larger buildings with multiple beds in a large, open sleeping area, similar to a hostel setup.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Garner Creek offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, along with healthy snacks. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dietary practices, the camp provides various options to accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. Parents can specify any dietary requirements during registration, ensuring that each camper’s nutritional needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathhouse, which houses toilets, sinks, and shower stalls. The bathhouses are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Accessibility: For campers with special needs, accessible bathroom facilities are available. These are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and provide additional support with features like grab bars and wider doorways.

Camp Garner Creek is dedicated to making sure that every camper’s stay is as comfortable as possible, providing a home away from home where they can focus on enjoying their camp experience.

Activities in Camp Garner Creek

Camp Garner Creek is bustling with a wide array of activities that cater to various interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to explore new passions and enhance existing skills. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Includes hiking, swimming in the camp’s natural lake, canoeing, and fishing.
Arts and Crafts: Summer camps can engage in painting, pottery, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Sports: A variety of sports are available such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Nature Studies: Activities like bird watching, nature walks, and educational talks on local flora and fauna.
Adventure Challenges: Rock climbing, rope courses, and zip-lining offer thrilling experiences.
Performing Arts: Drama workshops, dance classes, and music sessions encourage creative expression.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: A welcoming event that introduces campers to the camp’s culture and traditions.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings where campers share stories, perform skits, and sing songs.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition where teams compete in various sports and challenges, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents to the entire camp.
End-of-Session Banquet: A formal dinner where achievements are celebrated and certificates are awarded.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in leadership programs where they learn to plan activities, manage groups, and develop effective communication skills.
Environmental Awareness: Through guided nature walks and conservation projects, campers gain a deeper understanding of environmental issues and the importance of sustainability.
Artistic Skills: Specialized workshops in arts and crafts provide hands-on learning experiences, from pottery throwing to digital photography.
Physical Fitness: Regular participation in sports and outdoor activities promotes physical health and teaches the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.
Social Skills: Through group activities and living together in cabins, campers naturally enhance their social interaction, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills.

Camp Garner Creek aims to provide a diverse and enriching experience that helps campers grow both personally and socially, while creating unforgettable summer memories.

The staff of Camp Garner Creek

Camp Garner Creek is dedicated to ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers, supported by a well-qualified and carefully selected staff. Here’s how the camp maintains high standards for its staff members, from hiring to training:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Camp Garner Creek maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Typically, the ratio is 1 staff member to every 8 campers.
Specific Programs: For more specialized activities such as swimming or adventure sports, the ratio is even lower (1:5 or 1:6), ensuring enhanced supervision and safety.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The hiring process involves a rigorous selection procedure, including extensive background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure candidates are not only skilled but also dedicated to fostering a positive camp environment.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have prior experience in child care or camp management. Educational qualifications related to education, psychology, or physical education are highly regarded. Specialized instructors for activities like swimming or rock climbing often hold specific credentials in their field.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and camper safety.
Certifications:
- CPR and First Aid: All camp staff must be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided during staff training sessions if not already obtained.
- Lifeguard Certification: For activities involving water, staff members are required to have current lifeguard certifications, ensuring they are prepared to handle any water-related emergencies.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camping season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions and workshops to refine their skills and adapt to any new camping standards or safety protocols.

Camp Garner Creek takes pride in its professional and enthusiastic staff, who are essential to creating a supportive and dynamic camp environment. Their dedication to camper safety and development makes the camp a trusted choice for parents and a memorable experience for campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Garner Creek

At Camp Garner Creek, the safety and health of campers and staff are of paramount importance. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols and procedures, equipped on-site health facilities, and implemented stringent policies for handling emergencies, all designed to maintain a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify potential safety hazards associated with activities and camp facilities. These assessments help in implementing preventive measures.
Safety Equipment: All activities are equipped with necessary safety gear, such as helmets for biking and life jackets for water sports. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
Emergency Drills: Campers and staff participate in emergency drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Secure Campus: The camp is monitored with appropriate security measures, including controlled access points and staff who are trained to ensure only authorized persons are on-site.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Garner Creek has a well-equipped health center managed by licensed healthcare professionals. The center is staffed 24/7 during camp sessions.
Medical Staff: The health center is typically staffed by a registered nurse (RN) and/or a paramedic. For specialized camps or larger sessions, additional medical staff, such as EMTs or physicians, may be present.
Capabilities: The health center is capable of treating minor injuries and illnesses on-site. It is also equipped to stabilize patients in case of more serious conditions before transportation to a hospital.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: All staff are trained to respond immediately to any health or safety incident. Emergency protocols are in place to quickly assess the situation and provide necessary intervention.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol for notifying internal staff and, if necessary, external emergency services. Parents are notified as soon as possible when a situation involves their child.
Evacuation Plan: The camp has a well-defined evacuation plan for scenarios that might require moving campers and staff to a safer location. This plan is periodically reviewed and practiced during training sessions.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Garner Creek works closely with local emergency services to ensure a coordinated response to any situation. This includes planning sessions with fire departments, police, and medical facilities.

By adhering to these stringent safety and health protocols, Camp Garner Creek ensures that all campers have a safe and healthy experience, allowing them to focus on enjoyment and personal growth in a secure environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp Garner Creek

Camp Garner Creek offers a structured cost and registration framework to ensure transparency and accessibility for all families interested in providing their children with a memorable and enriching camp experience. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration details, and financial options available:

Cost of Attendance

Cost: The cost of attendance varies depending on the duration of the camp session and the specific program chosen. Typically, fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment used during the camp. Costs can range from $400 for one-week sessions to $800 for two-week specialty programs.
What It Includes: The fee includes full accommodation, three meals per day plus snacks, all scheduled activities, 24/7 supervision, and any transportation for off-site excursions that are part of the camp program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children. Typically, it opens several months before the camp season starts.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged, as spots in popular programs fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on the camp’s, and reminders are sent via email to families who have expressed interest.
Documentation: During registration, parents are required to complete all necessary forms, including health information, emergency contacts, and consent for participation in all camp activities.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family budgets, Camp Garner Creek offers flexible payment plans that allow the camp fees to be paid in installments. Details and schedules for payments can be set up at the time of registration.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a month before the camp start date. After this period, partial refunds may be granted on a case-by-case basis, usually excluding a non-refundable deposit.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, such as severe weather or health emergencies, families are typically offered the choice of a full refund or credit for future sessions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Garner Creek is committed to making camp accessible for all children and offers a number of scholarships each year based on financial need or merit.
Financial Aid: Additional financial assistance may be available to families who demonstrate significant financial need. Information about how to apply for these programs is provided during the registration process.

Camp Garner Creek strives to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of camp, regardless of financial circumstances, through a variety of supportive financial options and clear, straightforward registration processes.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Garner Creek

To ensure that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the experience at Camp Garner Creek, here’s a comprehensive guide covering the packing list, rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (including layers for cooler evenings), swimsuits, hats, and sturdy shoes for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Optional Items: Books, a camera (non-smartphone), and a small backpack for day trips.
Special Gear: Specific items related to activities (e.g., musical instruments for music camp, sports gear like cleats or shin guards).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Garner Creek encourages a tech-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally not allowed and must be stored upon arrival.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and staff, visitation during camp sessions is limited. Parents can visit only on designated days, usually at the beginning or end of the session.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to camp safety rules are expected from all campers. The camp has a strict policy against bullying and other disruptive behaviors.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made. This can help alleviate any anxiety.
Communication: Write letters or send emails if the camp permits. Knowing they can communicate with home helps ease campers into the camp experience.
Packing: Involve your child in the packing process using the camp’s checklist. This helps them know what they have with them and promotes responsibility.
Set Goals: Encourage your child to set personal goals for camp (e.g., try a new activity, or make a new friend).
Goodbyes: Keep farewells short and positive to ease the transition into camp life.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and enriching experience at Camp Garner Creek.

Camp Garner Creek offers a rich, immersive camping experience that goes beyond mere fun and adventure. Nestled in the beautiful setting of Dickson, Tennessee, the camp fosters an environment where children and teens can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. With a comprehensive range of activities tailored to various interests, a strong commitment to safety, and a community-focused approach, Camp Garner Creek is more than just a summer destination—it’s a place where young individuals grow and thrive.

The camp’s dedicated staff, well-structured programs, and robust facilities ensure that every camper’s experience is safe, enjoyable, and enriching. Whether it’s through engaging in thrilling outdoor activities, unleashing creativity in arts and crafts, or developing leadership skills, Camp Garner Creek provides a nurturing space for all campers to discover their potential and make unforgettable memories.