Nestled in the serene landscapes of Spencer, West Virginia, Spring Heights Camp offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and spiritual enrichment. Located in the heart of the Appalachian region, the camp is surrounded by the lush woodlands and rolling hills typical of Roane County, providing an ideal setting for both retreat and exploration. This scenic camp is not only a beacon for nature lovers but also serves as a spiritual sanctuary near notable landmarks such as the Little Kanawha River.

Spring Heights Camp has a rich history of fostering a close-knit community through its programming and facilities. Established with the aim of providing a nurturing environment, the camp has been a home away from home for many youths, encouraging personal growth and community engagement through its diverse activities.

The camp’s mission is to nurture the spiritual, physical, and emotional growth of each camper in a welcoming, inclusive environment. It operates under a philosophy that emphasizes respect for nature, self, and others, promoting values that help campers develop into responsible and caring individuals.

Spring Heights Camp is designed to accommodate boys and girls of various age groups, offering tailored programs that cater to different stages of youth development. The camp provides a range of activities suitable for younger children, teenagers, and young adults, ensuring that each age group experiences appropriate challenges and learning opportunities. Whether it’s summer camp sessions, weekend retreats, or leadership training programs, Spring Heights Camp promises an enriching experience that leaves a lasting impact on its campers.

Programs Offered by Spring Heights Camp

Spring Heights Camp provides a wide array of programs that cater to diverse interests and age groups. Each program is designed to encourage personal growth, teamwork, and a deeper connection with nature.

1. Standard Camp Sessions

Description: These sessions encompass a broad range of activities including outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and team-building exercises. Campers engage in hiking, swimming, canoeing, and various outdoor sports, supplemented by creative sessions like pottery and painting.
Length: Standard sessions typically last one to two weeks, offering campers a compact yet fulfilling experience.
Specialty: Focuses on a balanced mix of physical activities, creativity, and nature exploration.

2. Adventure Camps

Description: Tailored for thrill-seekers, these camps include more rigorous activities like rock climbing, advanced hiking, and wilderness survival skills training.
Length: These are generally one-week sessions designed to challenge older campers and develop resilience and outdoor survival skills.
Specialty: Emphasizes adventure sports and survival skills training.

3. Leadership Training Programs

Description: Aimed at teenagers and young adults, these programs focus on developing leadership skills through workshops, team activities, and mentorship roles within the camp. Participants learn about effective communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Length: Leadership camps can last from one to several weeks, depending on the depth of training and participant age.
Specialty: Leadership skills development and peer mentoring.

4. Specialty Arts and Science Camps

Description: These sessions cater to campers with specific interests in arts or sciences. Programs might include photography workshops, theater productions, or hands-on science experiments and environmental education.
Length: Typically run for one week, these camps allow campers to dive deep into their chosen area of interest.
Specialty: Focuses on either arts or sciences, providing specialized equipment and expert instructors.

5. Spiritual Growth Retreats

Description: These retreats focus on spiritual education and reflection. Activities include guided meditation, group discussions, worship services, and community service projects.
Length: Sessions can range from a weekend to a full week, designed to accommodate different group needs and schedules.
Specialty: Spiritual enrichment and community service.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning: Start with a communal breakfast followed by morning meditation or a motivational talk. The rest of the morning is spent in scheduled activities specific to the camp program.
Afternoon: After lunch, campers engage in a second set of activities, which might include team sports, special workshops, or continuation of the morning’s activities.
Evening: Dinner is followed by free time, evening programs like campfires or talent shows, and then night activities such as stargazing or night hikes.
Night: Campers gather for a brief reflection on the day’s learnings before heading to their cabins for the night.

Each program at Spring Heights Camp is designed to offer a structured yet flexible schedule, allowing campers to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships in a supportive environment.

Accommodations in Spring Heights Camp

Spring Heights Camp is well-equipped to provide comfortable and safe accommodations for all campers, ensuring a home-like environment that fosters relaxation and community bonding.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Spring Heights Camp is rustic yet cozy cabins designed to blend into the natural surroundings. These cabins typically house 8-12 campers along with 1-2 camp counselors, ensuring supervision and safety. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity.
Tents: For more adventure-focused programs, campers have the option to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive outdoor experience. Tents are set up in designated areas that are secure and monitored.
Dorms: Available primarily for larger groups or special events, dorm-style accommodations offer individual beds in a communal setting, along with shared living spaces that promote interaction and fellowship among campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Spring Heights Camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced staff in the camp’s central dining hall. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting to support the campers’ active lifestyles.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, the camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive alternatives. Campers or their guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary restrictions during registration to ensure these needs are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located in close proximity to all sleeping quarters. The facilities are divided by gender and are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate a large number of campers efficiently.
Hygiene Standards: Maintaining high standards of cleanliness, the bathrooms and shower areas are cleaned and sanitized daily. Additionally, the camp promotes hygiene practices among campers, such as handwashing before meals and after activities.

Spring Heights Camp takes great care in providing facilities that not only meet the basic needs of its campers but also enhance their camping experience by ensuring comfort, safety, and inclusivity. This attention to detail in accommodation services allows campers to focus on their personal growth and enjoyment during their stay at the camp.

Activities in Spring Heights Camp

Spring Heights Camp offers a vibrant range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, promoting both fun and educational experiences. The camp ensures that every camper finds something exciting to do, fostering skills development and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can participate in hiking, swimming, canoeing, and rock climbing, utilizing the natural terrain around the camp to offer a true adventure experience.
Sports: The camp provides facilities for various sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, encouraging physical fitness and teamwork.
Arts and Crafts: Dedicated arts and crafts sessions allow campers to explore their creativity through activities such as pottery, painting, and woodworking.
Nature and Science Exploration: Programs are designed to teach campers about local flora and fauna, basic survival skills, and environmental conservation through interactive, hands-on learning experiences.
Performing Arts: Campers interested in drama, dance, or music can participate in performances, talent shows, and even campfire storytelling, enhancing their confidence and artistic talents.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: One of the highlights at Spring Heights is the regular campfire nights where campers gather for storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: An annual tradition, Color Wars is a camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
End-of-Camp Banquet: To celebrate the end of each session, a banquet is held where achievements are recognized, and campers can share their experiences and showcase their talents.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Skills: Through activities that require team coordination and peer mentoring, campers enhance their leadership qualities.
Creative Skills: Arts and crafts, as well as performing arts activities, provide campers with the opportunity to delve into creative expression and innovation.
Environmental Awareness: Nature-based activities are designed not only to educate but also to instill lifelong respect and responsibility toward environmental conservation.
Social Skills: By participating in group activities and living together in community settings, campers naturally develop interpersonal and communication skills.

The array of activities at Spring Heights Camp ensures that each camper’s visit is filled with enjoyable and enriching experiences. These activities are thoughtfully chosen to foster personal growth, team-building, and a deeper connection with the natural world, making each camper’s stay both memorable and transformative.

The staff of Spring Heights Camp

Spring Heights Camp prides itself on its dedicated and highly qualified staff, who are instrumental in creating a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. The camp adheres to strict guidelines in the hiring and training of its personnel to ensure the highest standards of camp management and safety.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Spring Heights Camp maintains an excellent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure individual attention and supervision. The typical ratio is one staff member for every five to eight campers, depending on the age group and activity. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage all campers, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources including local universities, teacher recommendations, and referrals from current and former staff.
Selection Criteria: Candidates must demonstrate a strong background in childcare or education, relevant experience in camp activities (such as outdoor sports, arts, or leadership training), and a genuine enthusiasm for working with children and teens.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks including criminal records, previous employment verification, and reference checks to ensure the safety and integrity of the camp environment.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff members participate in a comprehensive training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity leadership, and child psychology.
Certifications: Staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, instructors for specific activities such as swimming or rock climbing hold specialized certifications from recognized authorities (e.g., American Red Cross, Professional Climbing Instructors Association).
Ongoing Education: Spring Heights Camp encourages and often sponsors further education and training for its staff, including advanced first aid, child protection laws, and leadership courses.

The commitment to a well-trained and qualified staff ensures that Spring Heights Camp can offer a safe and enriching camp experience. By maintaining high standards in hiring and training, the camp fosters a professional environment where the welfare of each camper is a top priority.

Safety and Health in Spring Heights Camp

Spring Heights Camp is committed to the safety and well-being of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous safety protocols and maintaining robust health facilities on-site. These measures ensure that the camp environment is not only fun and educational but also secure and well-prepared for any emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: Staff undergo regular training sessions on emergency response, safety protocols, and crisis management to ensure they are well-prepared to handle any situation.
Activity Safety: Each activity at camp is guided by specific safety rules designed to prevent accidents. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn during activities like rock climbing and archery.
Fire Safety: Fire drills are conducted regularly, and the camp is equipped with fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in all cabins and common areas. Clear signage and illuminated paths ensure quick evacuation if necessary.
Water Safety: Lifeguards are always present during swimming activities, and all water-based activities adhere to strict safety guidelines. Campers are grouped by swim level to ensure everyone participates safely.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Spring Heights Camp has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians. The center is prepared to handle routine health issues and minor injuries.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for the storage and distribution of medications for campers with prescriptions, ensuring these are administered as per the prescribing doctor’s instructions.
24/7 Availability: The healthcare staff is available around the clock to ensure that medical care is accessible at all times, day or night.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for natural disasters, health emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is reviewed and updated annually.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there is a clear protocol for communication with parents and guardians, which includes immediate notification and regular updates as the situation progresses.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: Spring Heights Camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services (fire department, police, hospital) to ensure a quick response time in case of major emergencies.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, a professional health staff, and clear emergency policies, Spring Heights Camp ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing that their safety is a top priority.

Cost and Registration in Spring Heights Camp

Spring Heights Camp is committed to providing a memorable and enriching camp experience, ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder participation. The camp’s pricing structure is designed to be inclusive, with several options for financial support.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost: The cost of attending Spring Heights Camp varies depending on the session length and the specific program. Typical fees for a one-week session range from $300 to $500. This fee includes all lodging, meals, activities, and access to camp facilities.
Inclusions: The registration fee covers the cost of accommodation in cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), program materials, and instruction for activities. It also includes the use of all camp facilities and participation in special events and evening programs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for camp sessions can be completed online. The site provides a detailed guide and a registration form that can be submitted electronically.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer season. Early registration is encouraged as some sessions fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost may be a burden for some families, Spring Heights Camp offers payment plans that allow the camp fee to be paid in installments over time, leading up to the start of the session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a month before the session begins. After this point, refunds may be partial or non-refundable, depending on the proximity to the start date of the session.
Cancellation Policy: If a session is canceled by the camp due to unforeseen circumstances (such as extreme weather conditions), full refunds or options to reschedule are offered.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: Spring Heights Camp offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp often has other financial aid options available, including sponsorships from local businesses and organizations that support youth activities.

Spring Heights Camp aims to make its programs accessible to as many young people as possible, offering various financial accommodations to ensure that all interested campers have the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that the camp provides.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Spring Heights Camp

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a positive and enriching camp experience at Spring Heights Camp. To help parents and campers get ready, the camp provides a comprehensive guide that includes a packing list, outlines the camp’s rules and policies, and offers helpful tips for first-time participants.

Packing List

Essential Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the session duration, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimwear, and sturdy shoes for hiking as well as sandals.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring bedding (sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for twin beds), a pillow, and all necessary toiletries including toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
Miscellaneous Gear: Don’t forget a flashlight, bug spray, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a hat for sun protection.
Special Items: Include any specific gear required for specialty camps (e.g., musical instruments for a music camp, or art supplies for an arts camp).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices may be used during designated times and areas to contact family or for educational purposes under supervision.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit the camp during specific visiting days which are scheduled midway through sessions. Outside these times, visitations are discouraged to maintain the camp program’s integrity and schedule.
Behavior Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respect, inclusivity, and safety. Bullying, aggressive behavior, or disregard for camp rules can lead to dismissal from the camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers: Engage in the full range of activities offered, even those outside your comfort zone—it’s a great way to learn new skills and make friends. Remember, everyone is a bit nervous at first, but openness and participation can make your camp experience unforgettable.
For Parents: Prepare your child by discussing what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and adventures ahead. Make sure to leave a list of emergency contacts with camp staff, and discuss any medical or dietary needs your child has with them in advance.
Stay Positive: Encourage your child about the independence they’ll gain and the fun they’ll have. Keeping the departure upbeat and positive can ease any anxiety they might feel.

Spring Heights Camp is dedicated to ensuring that both parents and campers are well-prepared and confident about their upcoming adventure. By following these guidelines, everyone can look forward to a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding camp experience.

Spring Heights Camp in Spencer, WV, stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth. Set in the stunning landscapes of Appalachia, the camp offers a diverse array of programs that cater to various interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds activities that spark their enthusiasm and challenge their abilities. From outdoor adventures and artistic explorations to leadership training and spiritual growth, Spring Heights provides a well-rounded experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.

The camp’s commitment to safety, coupled with its robust health facilities and well-trained staff, ensures a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being. The detailed preparation guidelines and supportive atmosphere help first-time campers and their parents transition smoothly into the camp experience, fostering independence and resilience among its young participants.