Nestled in the picturesque woodlands of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, Camp Sycamore Creek stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young minds. Situated just a short distance from the serene Cumberland River and easily accessible from Nashville, this camp offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a convenient location.

Camp Sycamore Creek was established with a vision to provide a nurturing environment where children can explore the great outdoors while learning valuable life skills. Over the years, it has become a cherished summer destination, maintaining a tradition of fostering independence and camaraderie among its campers.

At the heart of Camp Sycamore Creek’s philosophy is a commitment to “Empower Youth, Inspire Learning, and Foster Growth through Nature.” This mission reflects the camp’s dedication to creating an inclusive, stimulating environment where every camper can thrive.

Designed to cater to both boys and girls, Camp Sycamore Creek welcomes campers of various age groups, typically ranging from 7 to 16 years old. The camp offers a plethora of activities tailored to challenge and entertain each age group, ensuring a memorable and impactful experience for all who attend. Whether it’s hiking through dense forests, learning survival skills, or engaging in creative arts, Camp Sycamore Creek provides a well-rounded experience that leaves lasting impressions and lifelong skills.

Programs Offered by Camp Sycamore Creek

Camp Sycamore Creek provides a dynamic range of programs that cater to the diverse interests and developmental needs of its campers. Each program is thoughtfully designed to make every camp experience enriching and fun.

Description of Programs

The camp offers multiple session lengths to accommodate different family schedules and camper commitments. Whether it’s a brief adventure or an immersive summer experience, there’s a program for every child.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are getting acquainted with the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a deeper dive into camp activities and community building, these sessions are great for returning campers.
Full Summer Programs: These sessions span several weeks and are ideal for campers who wish to fully engage in all that Camp Sycamore Creek has to offer.

Specialty Programs

Arts: From pottery and painting to drama and dance, the arts program encourages creative expression and skill development.
Sports: This includes traditional sports like soccer and basketball, as well as outdoor activities such as archery and canoeing, focusing on physical fitness and teamwork.
Science and Nature: Campers can explore environmental science, engage in hands-on experiments, and learn about wildlife through guided nature walks and eco-friendly projects.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (rotating through specialty programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
1:30 PM: Afternoon activities (sports, arts, or nature exploration)
4:00 PM: Free time and optional workshops
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Return to cabins for wind-down time
10:00 PM: Lights out

This structured yet flexible schedule ensures that campers engage in a balanced mix of learning, physical activity, and leisure, making every day at Camp Sycamore Creek exciting and rewarding.

Accommodations in Camp Sycamore Creek

Camp Sycamore Creek is designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable and secure, offering well-thought-out accommodations that blend rustic charm with practicality.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangement at Camp Sycamore Creek involves cabins that are strategically placed throughout the campgrounds. Each cabin houses up to 12 campers and 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage spaces for personal items, and large windows to bring in the natural light and scenic views.
Tents: For specific programs or special camping nights, campers have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, teaching campers how to live and sleep in nature under guided supervision.
Dorms: Older campers or those participating in leadership programs might stay in dormitory-style accommodations that promote greater independence and responsibility.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Sycamore Creek offers a full meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, plus snacks. The dining hall is the hub of camp life where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. Parents can discuss their child’s specific dietary requirements with camp staff during registration to ensure these needs are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are conveniently located near the cabins and main camp areas. These facilities are modern and maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Safety: Ensuring the privacy and safety of campers is a priority. Bathrooms and showers have individual stalls, and there are strict rules and schedules for their use to maintain safety and organization.

With these accommodations, Camp Sycamore Creek ensures that every camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable camping experience.

Activities in Camp Sycamore Creek

Camp Sycamore Creek is packed with a variety of activities that engage campers both physically and mentally, fostering a fun and enriching environment. Here’s a look at the diverse activities and special events that define the camp experience.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: The camp features a large pool and occasionally organizes trips to nearby lakes, offering both instructional swimming and free swim times.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the local terrain allow campers to explore the natural landscape and learn about the regional flora and fauna.
Crafts: A wide range of craft activities, such as pottery, beadwork, and woodworking, encourages creativity and fine motor skills.
Sports: Summer camps can participate in a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports are a highlight at the camp, with safety instructors teaching basic paddling techniques and water safety.
Nature Skills: Campers learn survival skills such as orienteering, fire-building, and edible plant identification.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music sessions allow campers to express themselves and participate in camp-wide performances.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: Each session begins with an opening ceremony that introduces campers to the staff and outlines the values and expectations of the camp.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting, building a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: An annual event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various athletic, artistic, and intellectual challenges.
Talent Shows: These allow campers to showcase their skills and talents in front of their peers, fostering confidence and camaraderie.
End-of-Session Banquet: A formal dinner to celebrate the achievements of the campers, followed by an awards ceremony recognizing individual and group accomplishments.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership programs, and learn skills such as team management, conflict resolution, and effective communication.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to teach campers about sustainability, conservation, and the importance of protecting the environment.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops that focus on personal development, such as resilience training, goal setting, and self-esteem building, are integrated into the daily schedule.

Camp Sycamore Creek’s extensive range of activities, special events, and skill development opportunities ensure that every camper has a memorable and transformative experience.

The staff of Camp Sycamore Creek

Camp Sycamore Creek is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and educational environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in the rigorous standards set for hiring and training its staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. The typical ratio is 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with all campers, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Camp Sycamore Creek recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teaching colleges, and international staffing programs, to find individuals who are passionate about youth development and outdoor education.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have prior experience working with children, whether through previous camp positions, teaching, or childcare roles. A background in education, psychology, sports, or arts is highly valued.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are mandatory for all staff members, including criminal record checks, reference checks, and, in some cases, drug testing.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the start of camp, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and specific training for their assigned roles.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are typically obtained before arrival at camp, with periodic on-site training to ensure skills are up-to-date.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff members also hold additional certifications, such as lifeguarding, wilderness first responder, or specific sports coaching credentials.

Camp Sycamore Creek takes pride in its thorough selection and training process, ensuring that its staff is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to providing a nurturing and enriching camp experience for all attendees.

Safety and Health in Camp Sycamore Creek

Camp Sycamore Creek prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to handle any situation that may arise during the camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills, weather emergency drills, and lockdown procedures, to ensure that campers and staff are prepared for any emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is supervised by staff with specific training related to that activity. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn for activities like archery, swimming, and climbing.
Secure Campus: The camp is equipped with secure entry points, and all visitors are required to check in at the administration office. Camp boundaries are well-marked and monitored to prevent unauthorized access or wandering.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp maintains a health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call doctors. This center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medications and first aid supplies.
Availability: The health center is open 24/7 during camp sessions, ensuring that medical care is available at all times.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival at camp, all campers undergo a health screening to identify any existing conditions or potential health issues that staff should be aware of during their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Sycamore Creek has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in various scenarios, including severe weather, health emergencies, or missing campers. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
Communication: In case of an emergency, the camp has protocols in place for communicating with parents and guardians. This includes immediate notifications and regular updates until the situation is resolved.
Transportation for Emergencies: For emergencies requiring more advanced care, the camp has arrangements with local ambulance services and hospitals. The camp maintains vehicles ready to transport campers to medical facilities quickly.

Camp Sycamore Creek’s thorough attention to safety and health ensures that all participants can enjoy their camp experience with peace of mind, knowing that they are in a secure and caring environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp Sycamore Creek

Camp Sycamore Creek strives to provide a memorable and enriching camp experience at a reasonable cost, with transparent policies on registration, payments, and financial aid.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Sycamore Creek varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typical fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and 24-hour supervision.
What It Includes: Fees generally include accommodation in cabins or dorms, three daily meals plus snacks, all scheduled activities, and access to camp facilities and equipment. Additional costs might apply for special outings or certain specialty programs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children for Camp Sycamore Creek through an online platform. The process includes filling out camper details, and health information, and selecting session dates and specialty programs.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged, as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines are set for each session, typically a few months before the start date to allow for adequate planning and preparation.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans, allowing parents to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the session. This can be arranged during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellation: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which is usually about a month before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds may be offered, less a cancellation fee. No refunds are typically given once the session has started, except under exceptional circumstances.
Insurance: Parents are encouraged to purchase camp insurance to cover last-minute cancellations due to illness or other unforeseen events.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Sycamore Creek offers a number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships are based on financial need, merit, or a combination of both.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on family income and specific circumstances. The camp works to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints.

Camp Sycamore Creek is committed to making its programs accessible to as many children as possible, offering various options to help families manage the cost of camp and ensure that children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate.

Cost:

Day Rental: This option provides access to the property, pavilion, and dining hall for $300 but excludes access to bathhouses and cabins.
Overnight Rental: This offers access to everything on the property, including cabins and bathhouses, for a minimum of $500. An additional fee of $10 per person applies for every 24 hours (e.g., a group of 70 people would be charged $700 for an overnight stay).

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Sycamore Creek

Ensuring a smooth and enjoyable camp experience starts with proper preparation. Camp Sycamore Creek provides detailed guidelines on packing, rules, and tips for first-time campers and their parents to help them get ready for the adventure.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including layers for cooler evenings. Include a sturdy pair of hiking boots, sandals, and plenty of socks.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the accommodation), and a pillow.
Toiletries: Include soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel. Sunscreen and insect repellent are a must.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, specific gear like a swimsuit, water shoes, or a sports uniform might be required.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smart) can be brought for downtime activities.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Sycamore Creek promotes a technology-free environment to encourage social interaction and connection with nature. Smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices are generally not allowed. Exceptions may be made for devices used as cameras.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, parents are typically not allowed to visit except on designated days, such as the conclusion of the camp session.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Specific rules regarding bedtime, meal times, and activity participation are enforced to maintain a healthy and safe environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what the camp experience will be like, focusing on the exciting activities and new friends to be made.
Homesickness: It’s common for first-time campers to feel homesick. Encourage your child to talk about these feelings and reassure them that it’s natural. Camp staff are also trained to help ease homesickness.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies. Some camps allow letters or emails, and knowing how to stay in touch can help ease parental worries and camper homesickness.
Packing: Involve your child in the packing process. This helps them know what they have brought with them and gives them a sense of responsibility.

By following these guidelines, parents can help ensure their children are well-prepared and excited for their time at Camp Sycamore Creek, setting the stage for a memorable and transformative experience.

Camp Sycamore Creek embodies the spirit of adventure, growth, and community, offering young campers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the great outdoors while developing lifelong skills. Nestled in the scenic woodlands of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, this camp provides a safe, nurturing environment where children from diverse backgrounds come together to challenge themselves, forge new friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime.

With a carefully curated mix of activities ranging from sports and crafts to science and nature exploration, Camp Sycamore Creek ensures that every camper finds something to ignite their passion and curiosity. The camp’s dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and robust facilities support the physical and emotional well-being of each camper, fostering an atmosphere where fun and learning go hand in hand.