Nestled in the scenic region of Ooltewah, Tennessee, Wilderwood Camps offers an enchanting escape for children looking to experience the great outdoors. Located conveniently near notable landmarks such as the lush Cherokee National Forest and the sparkling waters of Harrison Bay, Wilderwood is not just a camp; it’s an adventure in one of Tennessee’s most beautiful settings.

The camp was founded with a vision to provide a nurturing environment that fosters growth and adventure. Over the years, Wilderwood has become a beloved summer destination, where traditions are made, and lifelong friendships are forged.

At the heart of Wilderwood Camps is a mission to offer a safe, inclusive, and fun environment where every camper can explore, learn, and grow. The camp’s philosophy centers on building character, enhancing social skills, and promoting respect for nature and each other.

Wilderwood is designed to cater to both boys and girls, typically welcoming campers aged 6 through 16. Each session is thoughtfully crafted to meet the developmental needs of different age groups, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience.

Whether it’s hiking through the forest, learning about wildlife, or paddling on the bay, Wilderwood Camps promises an unforgettable summer filled with excitement and learning.

Programs Offered by Wilderwood Camps

Wilderwood Camps provides a diverse range of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups. Each program is carefully structured to ensure that campers not only have fun but also gain valuable skills and experiences.

1. General Camp Program:

Description: This program includes a mix of traditional camp activities such as swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, and team sports. It’s designed to give campers a well-rounded experience.
Length of Sessions: Options range from one-week sessions to full-summer enrollments, allowing families to choose the duration that best fits their summer plans.
Specialty Areas: While the focus is on general skills and outdoor activities, there is also an emphasis on environmental education and social skills development.

2. Adventure Camp:

Description: Tailored for thrill-seekers, the Adventure Camp includes activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and wilderness survival skills.
Length of Sessions: Typically two weeks, providing enough time for in-depth exploration and mastery of new skills.
Specialty Areas: Focuses on outdoor adventure and survival skills, with certified instructors guiding the campers.

3. Arts Camp:

Description: Ideal for the creatively inclined, this camp focuses on various forms of artistic expression such as painting, sculpture, drama, and music.
Length of Sessions: Sessions usually last for two weeks, allowing campers to immerse themselves in creative projects.
Specialty Areas: Fine arts, performance arts, and crafts, with professional artists and educators leading the activities.

4. Sports Camp:

Description: This program is perfect for campers interested in improving their athletic skills. It covers a variety of sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, and more.
Length of Sessions: One to two weeks, depending on the sport and age group.
Specialty Areas: Focused training in specific sports, team-building exercises, and competitive play.

5. Science and Nature Camp:

Description: Campers engage in hands-on activities related to biology, ecology, chemistry, and more. The program also includes an exploration of the local flora and fauna.
Length of Sessions: Two-week sessions that include both classroom learning and practical fieldwork.
Specialty Areas: Environmental science, wildlife studies, and experimental activities.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities/session
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities/session
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, night hikes, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Wilderwood Camps is structured to balance active engagement with sufficient downtime, ensuring that campers remain energized and enthusiastic throughout their stay.

Accommodations in Wilderwood Camps

Wilderwood Camps provides comfortable and safe accommodations that cater to the needs of all campers, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout their camp experience.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangements at Wilderwood are cabins, which are designed to blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin accommodates 8-12 campers, with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. The cabins are grouped by age and gender, with each unit supervised by trained camp counselors to ensure safety and support.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure Camp, there are opportunities to sleep in tents during overnight expeditions. These are typically used during special sessions focused on wilderness skills and are fully equipped with necessary camping gear.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Wilderwood Camps offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, along with nutritious snacks. The camp’s dining hall is the heart of the camp where campers gather to eat and socialize.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Wilderwood provides options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergen-free meals. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff before arrival to ensure proper accommodations.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located near the cabins and common areas. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy and safety are prioritized in the design of these facilities. Individual stalls and shower areas provide privacy, and campers are always encouraged to respect each other’s space and privacy.

Wilderwood Camps’ accommodations are designed to ensure that all campers feel comfortable, safe, and part of the community, making their camp experience as enjoyable and enriching as possible.

Activities in Wilderwood Camps

Wilderwood Camps offers a wide array of activities that cater to different interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to explore new hobbies and develop existing talents. Here is a breakdown of the typical activities and special events available:

List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, fishing, and archery.
Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the nearby lake.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, and drama workshops.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and baseball.
Nature Exploration: Bird watching, nature walks, and environmental education sessions.
Skill Workshops: Cooking classes, survival skills training, and first aid certification.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Campfire: A tradition where campers gather around the campfire on the first night, share stories, sing songs, and set goals for their time at camp.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where the camp is divided into teams competing in various sports, puzzles, and creative contests.
Talent Show: An end-of-session event where campers showcase their talents in front of their peers and camp staff.
Themed Days: Days where activities are centered around specific themes such as “Pirate Day” or “Space Exploration Day.”
Closing Ceremony: A heartfelt event where achievements are celebrated, campers reflect on their experiences, and friendships are commemorated with the exchange of camp keepsakes.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles within their groups, assisting in the planning and execution of activities.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on activities and educational workshops, campers learn about conservation and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Personal Growth: Activities are designed to challenge campers and encourage problem-solving, teamwork, and self-confidence.
Artistic Expression: Creative arts programs allow campers to explore different mediums and techniques, fostering an appreciation for the arts and personal expression.

Wilderwood Camps ensure a comprehensive, engaging, and educational experience that promotes personal growth, environmental awareness, and the development of lifelong skills and friendships.

The staff of Wilderwood Camps

Wilderwood Camps prides itself on a highly qualified and dedicated staff, ensuring a safe and enriching environment for all campers. Here are details regarding the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Wilderwood maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and a high level of supervision. Typically, the camp operates with one staff member for every five campers, which enhances the safety and quality of the camping experience. This ratio is even lower for specialized activities such as swimming and rock climbing to ensure safety and provide more focused instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Wilderwood recruits staff from a variety of sources including colleges, teacher associations, and recommendations from educational institutions. Candidates are selected for their enthusiasm, experience in child care and education, and passion for outdoor activities.
Background Checks: All potential staff undergo rigorous background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and security of the campers.
Qualifications: Staff members typically hold degrees or are pursuing education in fields related to youth development, education, or recreation. Many are also returning staff who have grown up with the camp, adding a level of personal commitment and understanding of the camp’s culture and traditions.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity planning.
CPR and First Aid: All camp staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Specialized staff, such as those involved in water activities or adventure sports, often hold additional certifications such as lifeguarding or wilderness first responder.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and support, with regular meetings to discuss camper progress and any issues that arise. This ensures that the staff remains vigilant and prepared to handle any situation.

The commitment to a highly trained and dedicated staff is central to the mission of Wilderwood Camps, ensuring that every camper has a safe, fun, and educational experience.

Safety and Health in Wilderwood Camps

Wilderwood Camps takes the safety and health of its campers and staff very seriously, implementing stringent protocols and maintaining robust facilities to ensure a secure environment. Here are the key aspects of safety and health management at the camp:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Routine Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire drills, weather-related emergency procedures, and mock evacuation exercises, to ensure preparedness in any situation.
Activity-Specific Safety Guidelines: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of detailed safety guidelines which are rigorously enforced by the staff. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and gear inspections are routine.
Equipment and Facility Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are conducted to ensure that all facilities and equipment are in excellent condition and safe to use.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Wilderwood Camps maintains a well-equipped on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is equipped with essential medications and first aid supplies.
24/7 Availability: Health center staff are available around the clock to ensure that medical care is immediately accessible whenever needed. They also monitor the health and well-being of campers on a daily basis, managing everything from medication administration to routine health checks.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan, which is regularly reviewed and updated. This plan includes protocols for handling natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are clear protocols for communication with parents and local emergency services. The camp ensures that all staff members are familiar with these procedures and can act swiftly and effectively.
Training in Emergency Procedures: All camp staff undergo specific training in emergency response, including how to use communication devices, administer first aid, and manage evacuations. Regular updates and refresher courses are provided to keep the staff’s skills current.

Parental Involvement and Information:

Pre-Camp Information: Before camp begins, parents receive detailed information on the camp’s health and safety policies, including what to expect in the event of an emergency.
Ongoing Communication: Parents are regularly updated about any health issues affecting the camp and are immediately contacted if their child is involved in any type of emergency.

By maintaining rigorous safety standards and ensuring that all staff are thoroughly trained in emergency response, Wilderwood Camps strives to provide a safe, healthy, and enjoyable environment for every camper.

Cost and Registration in Wilderwood Camps

Wilderwood Camps is committed to providing an enriching camp experience while also ensuring affordability and accessibility for families. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration process, and financial assistance options available:

Cost of Attendance:

Costs: The cost of attending Wilderwood Camps varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. Typically, prices range from $400 for one-week sessions to $1,500 for full-summer programs.
What It Includes: The cost covers all camp activities, meals, accommodation, and access to all facilities. Specialized equipment needed for certain activities, such as rock climbing gear or art supplies, is also included, ensuring no additional fees are required.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration Process: Families can register their children. This system allows families to choose their desired session, fill out necessary medical and emergency contact information, and submit any special requests or accommodations needed for their child.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and continues until all spots are filled. Due to the popularity of certain sessions, early registration is encouraged. Some specialized programs may have earlier deadlines due to the limited availability of spots.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families have different financial needs, Wilderwood offers flexible payment plans. These plans allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable.
Refunds and Cancellation: Full refunds are available up to a month before the session starts, minus a nominal administration fee. For cancellations within a month of the start date, partial refunds are offered, depending on the timing and reason for cancellation.
Insurance: Families are also encouraged to consider camp insurance, which can cover the cost of attendance in case of unexpected cancellations due to illness or injury.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Wilderwood Camps offers scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships are designed to cover a portion or the entirety of the camp fees, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to experience camp regardless of financial background.
Application for Aid: Families seeking financial aid can apply through a separate process, which typically involves submitting financial information and a brief statement of need. The camp aims to be as inclusive as possible and works with families to meet their financial circumstances.

Wilderwood Camps strives to be accessible to all families, offering a range of options to assist with the costs associated with a high-quality camp experience. This ensures that many more children can benefit from the unique learning and growth opportunities that Wilderwood provides.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Wilderwood Camps

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both campers and their parents, especially if it’s a camper’s first time attending. Wilderwood Camps provides detailed guidance to ensure that everyone is ready for the upcoming camp experience. Here’s what you need to know about packing, rules, and general tips:

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimsuit, and sturdy footwear (sneakers and hiking boots).
Bedding and Towels: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, a pillow, and towels for both swimming and showering.
Toiletries: Include all necessary toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also a must.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, specific gear may be required, such as a water bottle, flashlight, and any specialized equipment noted by the camp (though most specialized gear is provided).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if allowed).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Wilderwood Camps encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Therefore, all mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and security of campers and to foster independence, visitation during the camp session is usually limited to specific visiting days or not allowed, depending on the session length and camp policy.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s rules, show respect to peers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Bullying and exclusionary behavior are strictly prohibited.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. For many children, this may be their first time away from home, so addressing any anxieties or questions they have is crucial.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they’ll need at camp, like organizing their belongings, making their bed, and choosing their clothes.
Set Goals: Help your child set personal goals for camp, whether it’s trying a new activity, making new friends, or developing a particular skill.
Stay Positive: Especially for first-time parents, it’s important to express enthusiasm and confidence about the camp experience. Children can pick up on parental anxieties, so keeping a positive outlook is key.

By preparing thoroughly and following these guidelines, parents can help ensure that their child has a fun, enriching, and memorable time at Wilderwood Camps.

Wilderwood Camps stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth in the picturesque setting of Ooltewah, Tennessee. With a wide array of programs ranging from sports and arts to science and outdoor adventures, the camp offers something for every young explorer. The carefully crafted activities and programs are designed to nurture skills, foster friendships, and build lasting memories.

The commitment to safety, personal growth, and environmental stewardship ensures that each camper not only has fun but also develops a deeper appreciation for the world around them. The supportive community and expert staff make Wilderwood a safe and encouraging place for children to stretch their boundaries and discover their potential.