Nestled in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, Camp Hidden Meadows stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young campers. Located in Bartow, this camp is ideally situated amidst the lush, expansive landscapes of the Monongahela National Forest, providing a picturesque backdrop for a myriad of outdoor activities.

Established with a vision to foster a love for the outdoors, Camp Hidden Meadows has been enriching the lives of children through nature since its inception. The camp’s philosophy revolves around the empowerment of young individuals, helping them develop a deep appreciation for nature while nurturing their personal and social skills. This is encapsulated in their mission statement: “To provide a nurturing environment where children feel supported in their growth, valued for their individuality, and empowered to explore their passions.”

Camp Hidden Meadows is a facility that welcomes boys and girls of various age groups, typically ranging from 6 to 16 years old. The camp offers a broad spectrum of programs that cater to different interests and age levels, ensuring that every camper finds something that sparks their enthusiasm and challenges them to grow. Whether it’s through art, sports, environmental science, or adventure activities, Camp Hidden Meadows is dedicated to creating an inclusive, encouraging, and fun environment for all campers.

Programs Offered by Camp Hidden Meadows

Camp Hidden Meadows offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental stages of all campers. With an emphasis on hands-on learning and outdoor adventure, each program is crafted to provide enriching experiences that foster personal growth and a deeper connection with nature.

1. Session Lengths:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions provide a snapshot of camp life and the variety of activities available.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions allow for deeper exploration of activities and more profound personal development.
Full Summer Options: For the ultimate camp experience, campers can immerse themselves in camp activities and culture for an entire summer, building lasting friendships and skills.

2. Specialty Programs:

Arts: From theater arts to pottery and photography, campers can explore their creative sides under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Sports: This includes a range of activities from archery and horseback riding to swimming and team sports, focusing on skill development and teamwork.
Science: Environmental and natural sciences are a cornerstone, with activities that include astronomy, wildlife biology, and ecology, allowing campers to learn through practical, hands-on investigation and exploration.
Adventure Programs: These programs feature rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking, emphasizing resilience, leadership, and environmental stewardship.

3. Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Wake-up and morning exercise
- Breakfast
- Morning activities (session-based)
Afternoon:
- Lunch and rest period
- Afternoon activities (varied daily)
- Free time for personal exploration or relaxation
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening program (campfires, night hikes, talent shows)
- Lights out

Each day at Camp Hidden Meadows is structured to balance active engagement with ample downtime, ensuring campers enjoy both exciting adventures and the chance to unwind and reflect on their experiences. The diverse offerings and well-rounded schedule at Camp Hidden Meadows aim to create a memorable and impactful summer for every camper.

Accommodations in Camp Hidden Meadows

Camp Hidden Meadows provides comfortable and functional accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and convenience for all campers.

1. Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers stay in well-constructed cabins that are integrated into the natural surroundings of the Allegheny Mountains. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas, housing campers of similar age groups and a counselor. The cabins are designed to promote camaraderie and foster a community atmosphere.
Tents: For specific adventure programs, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, particularly during special overnight hikes and excursions.
Dorms: Depending on the session and age group, campers may also have access to dormitory-style accommodations which offer a more communal living experience, with shared areas for sleeping and leisure.

2. Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Hidden Meadows operates a full-service dining hall where meals are served three times a day. The meal plans are designed to be nutritious and energizing, catering to the needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, the camp provides meals that cater to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Campers and parents can communicate dietary needs prior to arrival, ensuring that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options throughout their stay.

3. Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are centrally located near the cabins and dorms for easy access. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Convenience: Bathrooms are equipped with multiple stalls and showers have individual changing areas and curtains to ensure privacy. Hot water is available, and facilities are designed to handle the daily needs of a large group of campers comfortably.

Overall, the accommodations at Camp Hidden Meadows are thoughtfully designed to blend with the camp’s natural environment while providing all the comforts and conveniences necessary for a positive and enriching camping experience.

Activities in Camp Hidden Meadows

Camp Hidden Meadows is rich in activities and programs that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to explore new hobbies, develop skills, and enjoy memorable experiences.

1. List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: These include hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding through the scenic trails of the Allegheny Mountains.
Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular at the camp’s lake, providing fun and relaxation on hot summer days.
Arts and Crafts: Campers can engage in various creative activities such as painting, pottery, woodworking, and photography.
Sports: Facilities are available for soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, encouraging physical fitness and teamwork.
Environmental Education: Programs focused on ecology, wildlife biology, and sustainability practices educate campers about environmental stewardship.
Survival Skills: Skills like orienteering, fire-building, and shelter construction are taught, emphasizing self-reliance and problem-solving.

2. Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings foster a sense of community where stories are shared, and friendships are deepened.
End-of-Session Banquet: A celebratory banquet marks the end of each session, where achievements are recognized and memories celebrated.
Themed Days: Special-themed activities and dress-up days add a fun and spirited dynamic to the camp schedule.
Nature Nights: Special stargazing and night wildlife walks highlight the natural beauty and mystery of the camp’s surroundings after dark.

3. Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Programs: Older campers can participate in leadership training, where they learn essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and team management.
Advanced Workshops: For those deeply interested in specific areas like advanced rock climbing, wilderness first aid, or environmental science, specialized workshops provide in-depth learning and skills advancement.
Personal Growth: Through daily activities and the challenges they present, campers naturally develop confidence, resilience, and independence.

Camp Hidden Meadows is committed to providing a dynamic and enriching environment where children can thrive, learn, and grow. The variety of activities and special events cater to all interests and skill levels, making each camper’s experience uniquely rewarding.

The staff of Camp Hidden Meadows

Camp Hidden Meadows prides itself on a dedicated and highly qualified staff team that ensures a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. The camp’s staffing policies are designed to maintain high standards of supervision and care.

1. Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

General Supervision: The camp maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and support throughout their stay.
Specialized Activities: For more skill-intensive or risk-associated activities such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio is adjusted to 1:5 to provide enhanced safety and instruction.

2. Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Staff members are carefully selected based on their experience, skills, and passion for working with children in an outdoor setting. The hiring process includes thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure suitability and reliability.
Qualifications: Many staff members are professionals in fields such as education, psychology, and environmental science, or are college students pursuing related degrees. All staff members are required to have previous experience in camping or youth programs.

3. Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the commencement of camp, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity leadership, and child psychology.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in AED use and handling bloodborne pathogens is also provided.
Specialized Certifications: Instructors for specific activities such as horseback riding, swimming, and rock climbing hold additional specialized certifications pertinent to their area of expertise (e.g., lifeguard certification, certified climbing instructor).

Camp Hidden Meadows is committed to providing a high level of care and expertise through its staff, ensuring that the camp is not only a place of fun and adventure but also a secure and supportive environment for personal growth and learning. The combination of stringent hiring standards, comprehensive training, and ongoing professional development helps maintain the camp’s reputation as a premier destination for youth camping.

Safety and Health in Camp Hidden Meadows

Camp Hidden Meadows takes the safety and health of its campers and staff very seriously, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining excellent facilities to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment.

1. Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to act in an emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity area has specific safety rules that are strictly enforced. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn during activities such as rock climbing, horseback riding, and biking.
Supervision: Constant supervision is maintained in all areas of the camp, especially in high-risk activity zones like the swimming area. Lifeguards are always on duty when the pool or lake is in use.

2. On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: The camp boasts a well-equipped health center that is staffed by a licensed nurse and/or a healthcare provider capable of handling minor injuries and illnesses.
Medical Staff Availability: The health center is available 24/7, with on-call arrangements for more serious medical issues that require hospital attention.
Medication Management: The medical staff is responsible for the secure storage and distribution of medications for campers who require them, following the specific instructions provided by parents and doctors.

3. Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Action Plans: Comprehensive emergency action plans are in place, which include protocols for natural disasters, health emergencies, and other critical situations that may arise.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are clear communication strategies in place to notify parents, guardians, and relevant authorities immediately. The camp maintains updated contact information for all parties.
Transportation for Emergencies: Arrangements are in place with local hospitals and emergency services to provide quick transportation if needed. The camp ensures that vehicles are available at all times for emergency evacuation.

Camp Hidden Meadows’ dedication to safety and health is evident in its meticulous attention to preparedness, training, and resource allocation. These measures ensure that the camp environment is as safe as possible, allowing campers to enjoy their experience with peace of mind for both them and their parents.

Cost and Registration in Camp Hidden Meadows

Camp Hidden Meadows strives to make the camp experience accessible and transparent in terms of costs and registration processes. Here’s an overview of the financial aspects and registration details for prospective campers and their families.

1. Cost of Attendance:

Inclusion: The cost of attendance typically includes all lodging, meals, activities, and any special equipment needed for programs. Transportation to and from the camp is usually not included unless specified.
Fees: Fees can vary depending on the length of the stay and the type of program selected. For example, one-week sessions might cost significantly less than full summer options. Specialized programs, such as advanced wilderness trips or high-level arts workshops, may carry additional fees.

2. Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Camp Hidden Meadows usually offers an online registration platform where parents can fill out necessary forms, select sessions, and submit medical information.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as some programs fill up quickly. There are specific deadlines for each session, typically several months in advance.
Confirmation: Upon registration, families receive a confirmation email with a packing list, arrival details, and other preparatory information.

3. Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Flexible payment plans are often available to help spread the cost over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp generally offers a refund policy that includes a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only a partial refund might be possible, typically in cases of medical issues with a doctor’s note.
Cancellation Due to Camp: If the camp must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances, full refunds are usually provided.

4. Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Hidden Meadows may offer scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships can cover a portion or all of the cost of attending the camp.
Financial Aid: Financial aid applications are typically part of the registration process for families seeking assistance. These applications require documentation of financial need and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Camp Hidden Meadows is committed to making camp an achievable goal for all interested families, providing various financial options and assistance to ensure that children from diverse backgrounds can experience the joy and learning that camp provides.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Hidden Meadows

Preparing for a session at Camp Hidden Meadows involves thoughtful planning and understanding of the camp’s guidelines. Below is a guide to help parents and campers ensure they are well-prepared for the camping experience.

1. Packing List:

Essential Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, a jacket, rain gear, and a swimsuit. Don’t forget a hat and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking.
Bedding and Toiletries: Include a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the camp’s requirements), a pillow, towels, and personal toiletries.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, specific gear like a water bottle, sunscreen, bug repellent, flashlight, and any required sports equipment may be necessary.
Label Everything: To avoid loss and confusion, label all belongings with the camper’s name.

2. Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Hidden Meadows generally promotes a technology-free environment to encourage social interaction and connection with nature. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually discouraged or only allowed at specific times under supervision.
Visitation: Parents are typically allowed to visit only on designated days to minimize disruption and help campers adjust to camp life. Information on visitation policies will be provided prior to the camp session.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respect, kindness, and cooperation. Rules regarding behavior will be clearly communicated during the registration process and upon arrival.

3. Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and activities. Encourage campers to express any fears or concerns they have.
Practice Independence: Help your child practice skills they’ll need at camp, such as organizing their belongings, making their bed, and choosing their clothes.
Stay Positive: Focus on the positive aspects of camp, such as making new friends and trying new activities, especially if your child feels nervous.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and to ensure they know what they have brought with them.
Reassurance: Assure them that it’s normal to feel homesick and teach them how to cope with these feelings. Remind them of the support systems in place at camp.

By following these guidelines, parents and campers can feel more confident and prepared as they look forward to the enriching experience that Camp Hidden Meadows offers.

Camp Hidden Meadows stands as an exemplary outdoor retreat where children and teenagers can immerse themselves in a diverse range of activities and experiences, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia. With its commitment to fostering independence, creativity, and a deep appreciation for nature, the camp offers a unique environment that challenges campers to grow both personally and socially.

The carefully structured programs, from arts and sciences to adventure and sports, ensure that every camper finds something that resonates with their interests and pushes them to explore new horizons. The experienced and dedicated staff, rigorous safety protocols, and well-maintained facilities provide a secure and nurturing setting where campers can thrive.