Welcome to Camp Skyline, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Mentone, Alabama. Located in the heart of the Southeastern United States, Camp Skyline is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the tranquility of Lake Lahusage. As a beacon of adventure and camaraderie, their camp has a rich history dating back to 1947, when it was founded by Eloise Hart Temple with a vision to create a haven where children could flourish through outdoor experiences.
At Camp Skyline, their mission is to inspire and empower young minds through immersive outdoor adventures, meaningful connections, and lifelong memories. They believe in fostering personal growth, leadership skills, and a sense of community in a nurturing and supportive environment.
The camp welcomes both boys and girls, offering tailored programs for different age groups. From thrilling outdoor activities to creative arts and team-building exercises, Camp Skyline provides a diverse range of opportunities for campers to explore, learn, and grow.
Join us at Camp Skyline in Mentone, Alabama, where the beauty of nature meets the excitement of adventure, and where friendships are forged under the clear skies of the South.
Programs Offered by Camp Skyline
Camp Skyline offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the interests and passions of every camper. Whether your child is an outdoor enthusiast, an aspiring artist, a sports enthusiast, or a budding scientist, there’s something for everyone at their camp.
Their programs vary in length, with options ranging from one-week sessions for those seeking a taste of adventure to full-summer experiences for those eager to immerse themselves in the camp lifestyle.
Specialty programs at Camp Skyline include:
- Arts and Crafts: Campers can unleash their creativity through a variety of artistic endeavors, including painting, pottery, jewelry making, and more. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, they’ll explore different mediums and techniques while expressing themselves through their artwork.
- Sports and Recreation: From basketball and soccer to swimming and archery, Their sports programs offer something for every athlete. Campers will sharpen their skills, build teamwork, and foster a love for physical activity through a variety of sports and recreational activities.
- Outdoor Adventure: Embrace the great outdoors with their outdoor adventure programs, which include hiking, rock climbing, canoeing, and wilderness survival skills. Campers will develop confidence, resilience, and an appreciation for nature as they embark on exciting outdoor expeditions.
- STEM Exploration: Delve into the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with their hands-on STEM exploration programs. Campers will engage in fun and interactive experiments, robotics projects, coding activities, and more, fostering a passion for discovery and innovation.
A typical daily schedule at Camp Skyline is packed with a variety of activities designed to balance recreation, education, and socialization. While specific schedules may vary depending on the program and age group, a typical day might include:
- Morning wake-up and breakfast
- Morning assembly or group meeting
- Morning activity session (e.g., arts and crafts, sports, outdoor adventure)
- Lunch and rest period
- Afternoon activity session (e.g., swimming, STEM exploration, specialty workshops)
- Free time for recreational activities and socializing
- Evening dinner and campfire activities
- Evening program or special event
- Bedtime and lights out
At Camp Skyline, every day is an adventure filled with new experiences, meaningful connections, and endless opportunities for growth and discovery.
Accommodations in Camp Skyline
At Camp Skyline, They prioritize the comfort and safety of their campers, providing accommodations that allow them to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience.
Sleeping Arrangements: Campers stay in cozy cabins nestled among the trees, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Their cabins are equipped with bunk beds and ample storage space for personal belongings, ensuring a comfortable and restful night’s sleep.
Dining Options: Camp Skyline offers nutritious and delicious meals served in its spacious dining hall. Their experienced kitchen staff prepares a variety of options to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Campers can enjoy three hearty meals a day as part of their meal plan, with snacks and refreshments available throughout the day to keep energy levels up during adventures.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Clean and modern bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located throughout the campgrounds, ensuring easy access for all campers. Their facilities are well-maintained and equipped with showers, toilets, and sinks, providing campers with everything they need to stay clean and refreshed after a day of outdoor activities.
At Camp Skyline, They believe that comfortable accommodations and delicious meals are essential elements of the camp experience, allowing campers to focus on making memories, forging friendships, and embracing new adventures.
Activities in Camp Skyline
Camp Skyline offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and team sports, there’s something for everyone to enjoy:
- Swimming: Cool off and make a splash in their swimming pool or take a dip in the pristine waters of Lake Lahusage under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
- Hiking: Explore the scenic trails surrounding Camp Skyline and discover the beauty of nature firsthand while learning about local flora and fauna.
- Arts and Crafts: Summer Camps unleash your creativity in their arts and crafts sessions, where campers can enjoy painting, pottery, jewelry making, and other artistic endeavors.
- Sports: Develop teamwork and sportsmanship through a variety of team sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and softball, as well as individual sports like archery and tennis.
- Outdoor Adventure: Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, including rock climbing, zip-lining, canoeing, kayaking, and wilderness survival skills training.
- STEM Exploration: Dive into the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with hands-on experiments, robotics projects, coding activities, and more.
Special Events and Traditions: Camp Skyline is filled with special events and traditions that campers look forward to each year, including:
- Opening and closing campfire ceremonies
- Talent shows and performances
- Color wars and themed dress-up days
- Camp-wide games and scavenger hunts
- Camp Olympics and relay races
- Overnight camping trips and cookouts
Skill Development Opportunities: Camp Skyline provides numerous opportunities for campers to develop valuable life skills, including:
- Leadership development through group activities and team challenges
- Communication and collaboration skills through teamwork exercises and group projects
- Independence and self-reliance through outdoor adventures and overnight camping trips
- Creativity and problem-solving abilities through arts and crafts, STEM activities, and outdoor challenges
At Camp Skyline, every day is an adventure filled with opportunities for learning, growth, and fun. Whether campers are exploring the great outdoors, honing their artistic talents, or making lifelong friendships, they’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
The staff of Camp Skyline
Camp Skyline is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all campers, and their dedicated staff plays a crucial role in ensuring a positive camp experience.
Staff-to-Camper Ratio: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision for every camper. Their ratios vary depending on the age group and type of activity, but they always prioritize the safety and well-being of their campers.
Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications: Their hiring process is rigorous and selective, ensuring that they recruit qualified individuals who are passionate about working with children and dedicated to upholding Camp Skyline’s values. Prospective staff members undergo a thorough application and interview process, which includes background checks and reference checks. They seek individuals with previous experience working with children, strong leadership skills, and a genuine enthusiasm for outdoor education and recreational activities.
Training and Certifications: Once hired, staff members participate in comprehensive training programs to prepare them for their roles and responsibilities at camp. Their training covers topics such as child safety and welfare, behavior management techniques, emergency procedures, and program-specific instruction. Staff members also receive certifications in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid to ensure they are equipped to respond effectively to any medical emergencies that may arise during camp activities.
Additionally, certain staff members, such as lifeguards and adventure course instructors, undergo specialized training and hold certifications specific to their areas of expertise. They prioritize ongoing professional development and encourage staff members to continuously enhance their skills and knowledge through training opportunities and workshops.
At Camp Skyline, their staff members are not just supervisors—they are mentors, role models, and friends who are dedicated to creating a positive and enriching experience for every camper.
Safety and Health in Camp Skyline
Safety and health are paramount priorities at Camp Skyline, and they maintain rigorous protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of their campers and staff.
Safety Protocols and Procedures: They have established comprehensive safety protocols and procedures that govern all aspects of camp operations, including activities, facilities, transportation, and supervision. Their staff members receive extensive training in safety protocols and are responsible for enforcing these guidelines at all times. They regularly conduct inspections and maintenance checks to ensure that their facilities and equipment meet the highest safety standards.
On-Site Health Facilities and Staff: Camp Skyline is equipped with on-site health facilities staffed by qualified medical professionals to provide prompt and effective care for campers and staff members. Their health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and medication administration. Additionally, They have protocols in place for managing more serious medical emergencies and coordinating with local healthcare providers if advanced medical care is required.
Policies on Handling Emergencies: In the event of an emergency, Camp Skyline has established protocols and procedures to ensure a swift and coordinated response. Their staff members are trained to assess situations quickly and implement appropriate measures to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. They maintain clear communication channels to facilitate coordination between staff members, emergency responders, and camp administration. Additionally, They conduct regular emergency drills and simulations to ensure that their staff members are prepared to respond effectively to a wide range of scenarios.
Camp Skyline is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment where campers can thrive, explore, and create lasting memories. Through their comprehensive safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency response procedures, They strive to provide peace of mind to campers, parents, and staff members alike.
Cost and Registration in Camp Skyline
Cost of Attendance and What it Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Skyline varies depending on the length of the session and any optional add-on activities. Their fees typically include accommodations, meals, supervision, and access to all camp activities and facilities. Additional expenses may include optional off-site trips, transportation fees, and camp merchandise.
Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies: Camp Skyline offers flexible payment plans to accommodate families’ financial needs. Upon registration, families may be required to pay a deposit to secure their camper’s spot, with the remaining balance due by a specified deadline. They understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and they have a comprehensive refund and cancellation policy in place. Their policy typically includes a refund of fees for cancellations made by a certain date, minus any non-refundable deposit. Cancellations made after the specified date may be subject to partial or no refund, depending on the circumstances.
Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid: Camp Skyline is committed to making the camp experience accessible to all families, regardless of financial circumstances. They offer scholarships or financial aid to eligible campers based on demonstrated financial need.
At Camp Skyline, they strive to make the registration process as straightforward and accessible as possible, while also providing families with flexibility and support in managing their camp expenses. Their goal is to ensure that every camper has the opportunity to experience the magic of Camp Skyline, regardless of financial constraints.
Two Week Camp
Camp Skyline accepts girls going into 1st grade through 11th grade. A camper may enroll for 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks of camp. A $125 discount is allowed for attending more than one session. A 10% discount is available for 2nd or 3rd members of the immediate family attending camp.
2024 Two-Week Camp Dates
1st Session: (waitlist)
Sunday, June 9 – Friday, June 21
Accepting applications for the waitlist
2nd Session:
Sunday, June 23 – Friday, July 5
3rd Session: (waitlist)
Sunday, July 7 – Friday, July 19
Accepting applications for the waitlist
4th Session:
Sunday, July 21 – Friday, August 2
$5,391.00
Mini Camp
Girls going into 1st grade through 3rd grade may enroll in Mini-Camp. Mini-Camp is a week-long session designed to introduce new campers to Skyline. They accept 30 campers for each Mini Camp session.
For mini-campers, activity options will be limited to 7 of their all-time favorites: Arts & Crafts, Horseback Riding, Sports, Fun Swim, Dance, Tennis, and Archery. Campers will also be involved in the Mountie, Ranger, and Trooper club experience, night activities, and all the fun that comes with being a camper at Skyline!
2024 Mini Camp Dates
Mini A: (waitlist)
Sunday, June 9 – Saturday, June 15
Accepting applications for the waitlist
Mini B : (waitlist)
Sunday, June 23 – Saturday, June 29
Accepting applications for the waitlist
Mini C :
Sunday, July 21 – Saturday, July 27
$2,938.00
Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Skyline
Packing List: To help campers prepare for their adventure at Camp Skyline, they provide a comprehensive packing list that includes essential items such as:
- Clothing suitable for outdoor activities and varying weather conditions
- Comfortable footwear for hiking and other outdoor adventures
- Bedding and towels
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Water bottles and refillable containers
- Any required medications, clearly labeled with instructions
- Optional items such as a flashlight, camera, or journal
Rules and Policies: At Camp Skyline, they have rules and policies in place to ensure the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all campers. Some common rules and policies include:
- Restrictions on technology use, such as cell phones and electronic devices, to encourage campers to disconnect from screens and fully engage in the camp experience
- Visitation policies that outline designated visitation days and times for parents and family members to visit campers, as well as guidelines for signing in and out during visitation
- Behavior expectations, including respect for fellow campers, staff members, and camp property, as well as consequences for violations of camp rules
Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents: For first-time campers and parents, the prospect of attending camp can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here are some tips to help ease the transition:
- Familiarize yourself with camp policies, procedures, and expectations before arrival to ensure a smooth transition into camp life
- Encourage open communication between campers and parents, and reassure campers that it’s normal to feel nervous or homesick initially
- Pack carefully and label all belongings to avoid confusion or loss during camp
- Trust the camp staff and encourage campers to embrace new experiences, make new friends, and step out of their comfort zones
- Stay connected with your camper through letters or emails, but also encourage them to immerse themselves fully in the camp experience and make the most of their time away from home
By following these tips and adequately preparing for the camp experience, both campers and parents can feel confident and excited about the adventure that awaits at Camp Skyline.
Camp Skyline offers an unparalleled opportunity for campers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, adventure, and friendship in the breathtaking surroundings of Mentone, Alabama. With a rich array of activities, dedicated staff, and a commitment to safety and inclusion, Camp Skyline provides an environment where campers can thrive, grow, and create lasting memories.
Whether exploring the great outdoors, unleashing their creativity through arts and crafts, or developing valuable life skills through teamwork and leadership activities, campers at Camp Skyline are empowered to embrace new challenges, forge meaningful connections, and unlock their full potential. As they look ahead to the future, they remain steadfast in their mission to inspire, educate, and enrich the lives of generations of campers, ensuring that Camp Skyline continues to be a place where dreams take flight and memories are made to last a lifetime.