Welcome to Nacome Camp and Retreat Center, a serene getaway nestled in the scenic surroundings of Pleasantville, Tennessee. Situated in the heart of the state, this idyllic camp is not only a stone’s throw from notable landmarks such as the vast and verdant Cheatham Wildlife Management Area but also easily accessible from Nashville, offering a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility.

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center has a storied history that dates back to its establishment in 1947. Originally conceived as a nurturing space for spiritual growth and community bonding, the camp has evolved into a beacon of retreat and recreational activities while maintaining its foundational values.

The mission of Nacome is to “provide a peaceful and enriching environment that nurtures the spirit, inspires the mind, and energizes the body.” By fostering a sense of community and personal growth, Nacome aims to create memorable experiences that last a lifetime.

Nacome serves as a facility, welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. With programs specifically tailored to cater to children and teens, the camp ensures an inclusive, engaging, and safe environment for all attendees. Here, every camper is given the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in an atmosphere that champions holistic development. Whether through adventurous outdoor activities or thoughtful, reflective workshops, Nacome Camp and Retreat Center embodies a commitment to fostering youthful exuberance alongside meaningful introspection.

Programs Offered by Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ages. The camp’s commitment to fostering a holistic development environment is evident in the variety and depth of its offerings. Here’s an overview of the programs, session lengths, specialty areas, and a typical daily schedule:

Programs Description

Nacome provides a balanced mix of educational and recreational activities aimed at promoting physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Programs are structured to build teamwork, leadership, and self-confidence through group activities and individual challenges.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These are perfect for younger campers or first-timers, providing a brief yet immersive experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a more in-depth experience, these sessions allow for a deeper exploration of camp activities and community building.
Full Summer Option: For those seeking a comprehensive summer experience, Nacome offers a full-summer program that spans several weeks, providing continuity and a profound connection with peers and staff.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Includes a range of creative pursuits such as painting, music, theater, and crafts, encouraging campers to express themselves artistically.
Sports: Features traditional sports like soccer, basketball, and swimming, alongside adventure sports such as rock climbing and kayaking.
Science: Focuses on environmental science and nature exploration, designed to engage campers with hands-on activities that teach about ecology, astronomy, and biology.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning reflection
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (rotations among different sports, arts, or science workshops)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions)
5:00 PM: Free time for socializing, games, or individual interests
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, talent shows, group discussions)
9:00 PM: Evening reflection and cabin time
10:00 PM: Lights out

This structured schedule ensures that each day at Nacome is filled with opportunities for learning, growth, and fun, balanced with ample time for rest and reflection.

Accommodations in Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

At Nacome Camp and Retreat Center, accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the overall camping experience, ensuring comfort while maintaining a close connection with nature. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Nacome consists of rustic yet comfortable cabins that blend seamlessly into the surrounding forest. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and sleeps between 8 to 12 campers. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to create a supportive and safe environment for all campers.
Dormitory Style: For larger groups or specific programs, Nacome also offers dormitory-style accommodations that can house larger numbers of campers. These facilities are typically used for retreats or during off-season events.
Tents: For a more adventurous experience, there are designated areas where campers can choose to sleep in tents. This option is often part of specific wilderness or survival skill programs, providing an authentic outdoor experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Nacome provides three well-balanced meals per day, included in the camp fees. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, fostering a sense of community.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Nacome offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals upon request. The camp’s kitchen staff is trained to handle various dietary needs to ensure that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for males and females are conveniently located near the cabins and dormitories. These facilities are well-maintained and equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate the needs of campers efficiently.
Accessibility: All facilities are designed to be accessible, ensuring that campers with disabilities can move freely and safely.

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center’s accommodations are crafted to provide a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their experiences and growing both personally and communally.

Activities in Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center offers a vibrant array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and skill development, the camp provides a comprehensive program that encourages exploration and personal growth.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming in the camp’s natural lake, hiking on various scenic trails around the campgrounds, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, catering to various skill levels and promoting teamwork as well as individual skill improvement.
Creative Arts: Crafts such as pottery and woodworking, painting, and performing arts including drama and dance workshops.
Nature Exploration: Guided nature walks, astronomy nights for stargazing, and environmental education sessions that teach about local flora and fauna.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: A welcoming event that introduces campers to the camp’s culture and staff, featuring traditional camp songs and team-building games.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around a campfire, where campers share stories, roast marshmallows, and participate in sing-alongs.
End-of-Camp Banquet: A celebratory dinner on the last night of camp, where achievements are recognized, and campers can reflect on their experiences.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition that spans several days, involving teams competing in various sports, arts, and problem-solving challenges.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs specifically designed for older campers to develop leadership skills, including opportunities to mentor younger campers and lead group activities.
Survival Skills Workshops: Teaching practical skills like orienteering, fire-making, and shelter-building, emphasizing self-reliance and problem-solving.
Artistic Expression: Advanced workshops in the arts, such as sculpture, advanced musical performance, and theater production, aiming to refine campers’ artistic talents.
Environmental Stewardship: Activities that promote conservation, such as participating in local clean-up days and learning about sustainable practices.

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center is committed to providing a diverse range of activities that not only entertain but also educate and empower campers. Through these activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, campers leave Nacome with lasting memories, new skills, and a deeper appreciation for the community and the environment.

The staff of Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center places a high priority on ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in the camp’s meticulous approach to staffing, which includes maintaining an optimal staff-to-camper ratio, rigorous hiring processes, and comprehensive training programs.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Nacome maintains a general staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and support throughout their stay.
Specific Programs: For activities that require more supervision, such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio is adjusted to 1:5 to enhance safety and provide more focused guidance.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process at Nacome involves a thorough screening that includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews to assess both competence and character.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have prior experience in camp management, childcare, or a related field. Educational qualifications related to their roles, such as degrees in education, recreation, or environmental science, are highly valued.
Diversity and Inclusivity: Nacome prioritizes hiring staff from diverse backgrounds to ensure a wide range of perspectives and experiences, enriching the camp environment for all participants.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Those involved in specific activities like lifeguarding, rock climbing, or wilderness outings hold additional relevant certifications, such as Lifeguard Certification or Wilderness First Responder.
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo an intensive pre-camp training that covers emergency procedures, camp policies, child behavior management, and specific training for their assigned activities.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions and meetings to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges.

The staff at Nacome Camp and Retreat Center are not only qualified and well-trained but are also passionate about creating a fun, educational, and safe experience for every camper. This dedication ensures that Nacome remains a trusted and beloved choice for parents and children alike.

Safety and Health in Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing robust safety protocols, maintaining excellent on-site health facilities, and enforcing clear policies for handling emergencies. This comprehensive approach ensures a secure and nurturing environment where campers can enjoy their experiences without concern.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Checks: Regular inspections and maintenance of all facilities and equipment, especially those used for high-adventure activities like rock climbing and kayaking, to ensure they meet safety standards.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Detailed safety procedures tailored to each activity, ensuring that all safety measures are understood and followed by both campers and staff.
Safety Training for Campers: Upon arrival, all campers participate in orientation sessions where they learn about camp safety rules, emergency procedures, and how to safely engage in all activities.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Nacome maintains a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak sessions, a visiting doctor.
24/7 Availability: Healthcare staff are available around the clock to handle any medical needs or emergencies, ensuring prompt and effective medical attention.
Stocked with Essentials: The health center is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies to address common health issues and injuries.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: Detailed emergency action plans are in place for a variety of scenarios, including severe weather, fire, injuries, and other critical incidents. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
Training and Drills: Staff undergo regular training in emergency response, and drills are conducted with both staff and campers to ensure everyone knows how to act in an emergency.
Communication Protocols: Clear protocols for communicating with local emergency services and parents in the event of an incident. This includes timely updates and full transparency with parents about any issues affecting their children.

By upholding stringent safety standards and maintaining robust healthcare resources, Nacome Camp and Retreat Center ensure a safe, responsive, and caring environment for every camper. These measures not only help prevent emergencies but also ensure that the camp is prepared to respond effectively should any issues arise.

Cost and Registration in Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center strives to make its enriching camp experience accessible and affordable for families, offering transparent cost structures, a straightforward registration process, and financial assistance options. Here are the details regarding cost, registration, and financial policies:

Cost of Attendance

Cost Structure: The cost of attendance varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. For example, one-week sessions may cost a certain amount, while two-week or full-summer sessions will have a higher fee due to the extended duration and additional activities.
What’s Included: Fees generally cover all lodging, meals, activities, equipment use, and program materials. Additional costs might apply for special outings or optional extras.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their children via Nacome’s online portal. The process includes filling out necessary forms and providing medical information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the summer season, with early registration discounts available. Deadlines are set for each session, and spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Nacome offers flexible payment plans allowing families to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable.
Refunds: The camp has a structured refund policy which usually includes a non-refundable deposit. Full or partial refunds may be available depending on how far in advance a cancellation is made.
Cancellation Policies: Specific details of cancellation policies are provided at the time of registration, outlining scenarios such as cancellations due to personal reasons versus cancellations made by the camp due to unforeseen circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Nacome provides scholarship opportunities based on need, merit, or both. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited and awarded on a rolling basis.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available to families demonstrating significant financial need, ensuring that economic circumstances do not prevent interested children from attending.

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center’s approach to cost, registration, and financial policies is designed to ensure that as many children as possible can experience the joys and benefits of camp, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Nacome Camp and Retreat Center

Preparing for a stay at Nacome Camp and Retreat Center involves thorough planning to ensure both parents and campers are comfortable and ready for the adventure ahead. Here’s a comprehensive guide to packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-timers.

Packing List

Essential Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the session duration, including items for warm days and cool evenings. Include swimwear, athletic shoes, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, a pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.).
Rain Gear and Warm Layers: Weather can be unpredictable; include a waterproof jacket and warm layers for cooler temperatures.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses are crucial for protection against the sun.
Insect Protection: Insect repellent and a few long-sleeved shirts and long pants to help guard against bugs.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Necessary for nighttime, especially during evening activities.
Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Nacome typically restricts the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. These items can be used during designated times and areas if permitted.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to respect the camp schedule, with specific visiting days typically set to minimize disruptions and allow campers to fully immerse in the camp experience.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect, inclusivity, and cooperation are key values upheld at Nacome. Bullying, discrimination, and disrespect are strictly prohibited.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Preparation: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Address any anxieties or questions they may have openly.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policy, including how and when you can expect updates from the camp or your child.
Emotional Readiness: Encourage independence at home with tasks such as packing their own bag or managing simple daily chores to build confidence.
Stay Positive: Especially for first-time campers, a positive outlook about the experience can alleviate pre-camp jitters. Assure them that it’s a place to grow and have fun.

With these preparations, rules, and tips, parents can help ensure that their child’s camp experience at Nacome Camp and Retreat Center is enjoyable, safe, and enriching.

Nacome Camp and Retreat Center stands out as a premier destination for youth seeking an enriching summer experience in the heart of Tennessee. With its well-rounded offerings that include a diverse range of activities, dedicated staff, and robust safety protocols, Nacome provides a nurturing environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.

The camp’s commitment to fostering personal growth and a sense of community ensures that each camper leaves with not only cherished memories but also enhanced self-confidence and a deeper appreciation for nature and teamwork. Whether a first-timer or a seasoned camper, Nacome Camp and Retreat Center promises an unforgettable adventure that impacts young lives far beyond the summer.