Nestled in the scenic region of Sherrills Ford, North Carolina, Camp Dogwood offers a memorable outdoor experience for young adventurers. Situated near the picturesque Lake Norman, the camp provides a serene backdrop perfect for exploration and learning.

Founded with a vision to foster growth and learning through outdoor activities, Camp Dogwood has been dedicated to enriching the lives of young people since its inception. The camp’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that nature is not just a backdrop for adventure, but a vital teacher in life’s journey.

Camp Dogwood is a facility that caters to boys and girls across various age groups. Designed to challenge and inspire, their programs help campers develop skills and build character in a supportive and fun environment. Whether navigating the tranquil waters of Lake Norman or exploring the surrounding forests, Camp Dogwood is committed to creating an unforgettable experience that nurtures both the body and the spirit.

Programs Offered by Camp Dogwood

At Camp Dogwood, they offer a diverse array of programs tailored to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. Their sessions vary in length, providing flexibility for families and the opportunity for campers to immerse themselves in the camp experience, whether for one week, two weeks, or for an entire summer.

Program Descriptions:

Adventure & Wilderness: This program focuses on outdoor skills such as hiking, camping, and survival techniques. Campers learn to appreciate and navigate the natural world around them.
Water Sports: Utilizing their prime location by Lake Norman, they offer activities like kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. This program emphasizes safety, fun, and skill-building on the water.
Arts & Crafts: Aimed at fostering creativity, this program includes workshops in painting, pottery, and other crafts. It’s perfect for campers looking to express themselves artistically.
Sports & Recreation: From soccer and basketball to archery, this program offers a range of sports that teach teamwork, leadership, and personal fitness.
Science & Discovery: Campers engage in hands-on experiments and explorations that make science exciting and accessible. This includes everything from astronomy to environmental science.

Specialty Programs:

Camp Dogwood also offers specialty programs that focus more intensively on specific areas of interest:

Leadership Development: Designed for older campers, this program focuses on developing skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving.
Environmental Stewardship: Emphasizing sustainability and conservation, this program teaches campers about the importance of protecting their natural environments.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A day at Camp Dogwood is structured to maximize learning, fun, and community building:

7:30 AM: Wake up and breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (campers choose based on their program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (second session of chosen programs)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening group activities (campfires, storytelling, group games)
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day is designed to strike a balance between structured activities and free time, allowing campers to explore their interests while providing ample opportunity for personal growth and social interaction.

Accommodations in Camp Dogwood

Camp Dogwood is committed to ensuring that every camper feels comfortable and at home during their stay. Their facilities are designed to provide a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation type, the cabins at Camp Dogwood, are spacious and well-ventilated, housing 8-10 campers each. They are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Each cabin is supervised by trained camp counselors who stay in adjacent quarters to provide support and ensure safety.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: They provide three nutritious meals per day, prepared by their experienced culinary staff. Their dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences. They strive to make mealtime a fun and bonding experience for everyone.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some of their campers have specific dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care and attention to avoid cross-contamination.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin group has access to a modern bathroom and shower facilities conveniently nearby. These facilities are separated by gender and are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to ensure privacy and minimal wait times. They maintain strict cleanliness and hygiene standards, with regular cleaning schedules throughout the day.

At Camp Dogwood, they believe that comfortable living conditions are key to a positive camp experience. They continually assess and update their facilities to meet the needs of their campers and ensure they have a pleasant stay.

Activities in Camp Dogwood

Camp Dogwood is a hub of excitement and learning, with a wide range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Their programs promote both personal growth and community involvement, ensuring a well-rounded camp experience.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming and Water Sports: Enjoy the cool waters of Lake Norman with activities like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Hiking and Exploration: Explore the natural beauty surrounding their camp through guided hikes and nature walks.
Arts and Crafts: Summer camps, unleash your creativity with activities such as painting, pottery, and woodworking.
Sports: Engage in various sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Environmental Education: Participate in hands-on learning about local ecology, sustainability practices, and wildlife.
Adventure Courses: Challenge yourself with their ropes courses and climbing walls.
Science Workshops: Delve into fascinating subjects like astronomy, biology, and chemistry through interactive experiments.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are vibrant events that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, filled with performances, camper awards, and acknowledgments.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around a campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities.
Talent Shows: Campers get a chance to showcase their talents to their peers, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, dancing, or performing skits.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Dogwood places a strong emphasis on skill development across all its activities:

Leadership Skills: Through activities like the Leadership Development program and team sports, campers enhance their leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, as well as performance art activities, encourage campers to express themselves and think creatively.
Physical Fitness: Sports and adventure activities promote physical health and teach the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.
Environmental Awareness: Activities designed around environmental education help campers develop respect and a proactive attitude toward nature conservation.

At Camp Dogwood, they strive to create an environment where every camper can find something they love while discovering new passions and developing essential life skills.

The staff of Camp Dogwood

At Camp Dogwood, they take great pride in their dedicated and highly qualified staff, who play a crucial role in creating a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. They are committed to maintaining high standards in their staffing to ensure that every camper has the best possible experience.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Generally, their ratio is 1 staff member for every 5 campers, which allows their staff to effectively monitor and engage all campers, ensuring safety and a supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They selectively recruit staff through a rigorous process that includes background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure they are well-suited for the demands and responsibilities of camp life.
Qualifications: Their staff includes a diverse group of individuals from various backgrounds, including education, environmental science, sports, and the arts. All staff members are required to have prior experience working with children and a proven track record of responsibility and leadership.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity leadership.
Certifications: All of their staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff members involved in specific activities like swimming or ropes courses hold relevant certifications, such as lifeguarding or adventure education.
Ongoing Education: They believe in the continuous development of their staff and offer ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season. These sessions help staff stay updated on the best practices in child care, safety, and activity management.

Camp Dogwood’s commitment to a highly trained and responsive staff ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, educational, and memorable camp experience, bolstered by leaders who are not only qualified but also passionate about their roles.

Safety and Health in Camp Dogwood

At Camp Dogwood, the safety and health of their campers and staff are paramount. They implement rigorous safety protocols and maintain excellent health facilities to ensure that everyone enjoys a secure and healthy camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that all campers and staff are familiar with the procedures in case of an emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity is guided by specific safety protocols, designed to prevent accidents and injuries. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and safety gear must be worn for certain activities like archery, climbing, and water sports.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by their trained staff, who are stationed strategically throughout the camp to monitor and assist campers as needed.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by qualified medical personnel, including nurses and a visiting doctor. It is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is operational 24/7 during the camp season.
Medications: They have strict protocols for managing and administering medications for campers with specific health needs. All medications are stored securely and administered by trained health staff.
Hygiene: They promote and maintain high standards of hygiene throughout the camp to prevent illness. Handwashing stations are available throughout the camp, and hygiene practices are a regular part of their camp education.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in different types of emergencies, from natural disasters to health crises.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, communication is key. They ensure that all staff are equipped with communication devices and that there are multiple communication backups in place. Parents are promptly informed of any significant issues affecting the camp.
Local Partnerships: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services, including hospitals, fire departments, and police. These partnerships help ensure a quick response when additional support is needed.

The proactive and thorough approach to safety and health at Camp Dogwood helps create a supportive environment where campers can focus on enjoying their activities and building friendships, knowing they are in a safe and caring setting.

Cost and Registration in Camp Dogwood

Understanding the financial aspects and registration process is crucial for families considering Camp Dogwood. They strive to make their camp experience accessible and affordable, providing clear information on costs, registration details, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Dogwood covers all lodging, meals, and activities. It also includes any materials needed for special programs, camp t-shirts, and access to all camp facilities. Transportation to and from the camp is generally not included unless specifically stated.

Camp Dogwood’s fees depend on residency and whether you need a companion or caregiver:

In-State Blind/Visually Impaired Camper: $225 per week.
Out-of-State Blind/Visually Impaired Camper: $600 per week.
Caregiver: $275 per week.
Companion: $400 per week

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for Camp Dogwood can be completed online. Their system guides you through filling out the necessary forms and choosing your preferred session and activities.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until all spots are filled. Due to high demand, early registration is recommended.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. Payments can be split over several months, with final payments usually due one month before the camp session begins.
Refunds and Cancellations: If you need to cancel for any reason, a full or partial refund is available depending on the timing of the cancellation. Cancellations made more than one month before the start of the session typically receive a full refund, minus a registration fee. Details and specific timelines are outlined in their cancellation policy.
Insurance: They also offer optional cancellation insurance that families can purchase to cover unexpected circumstances that prevent attendance.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Dogwood is committed to making camp accessible to all children. They offer a number of scholarships each year based on financial need, merit, or both.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the family’s financial situation. They encourage families to apply early for financial aid, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

They believe that financial constraints should not prevent a child from experiencing the joy and learning that Camp Dogwood provides.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Dogwood

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Camp Dogwood, they aim to ensure that everyone is well-prepared and informed about what to expect. Below are details on the packing list, rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, they recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the camp duration including t-shirts, shorts, pants, undergarments, and socks. Include a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals with heel straps, and an extra pair of shoes in case one gets wet.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Water Bottle: A durable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Swimwear and Towel: For water activities.
Rain Gear: A raincoat or poncho for wet weather.
Hat and Sunglasses: Protection from the sun.
Flashlight or Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Optional Items: Books, journals, or simple games for downtime.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: They encourage a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with each other and their surroundings. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed, or their use is restricted to certain times and areas.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, visitation during camp sessions is generally limited to special events or arranged by prior approval. Details on visiting days and times will be provided before the camp session begins.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive behavior, and cooperation are expected at all times. Specific rules and consequences for not adhering to these guidelines are outlined in their camper handbook.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers: Try to engage in all activities, even those outside your comfort zone. It’s a great way to learn new skills and make new friends.
For Parents: Prepare your child by discussing what the camp experience will be like focusing on the fun and growth opportunities. Make sure they are involved in packing and understand the purpose of each item.
Communication: Discuss how you will communicate. Since many camps restrict phone use, consider writing letters or setting expectations for communication through the camp’s approved channels.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal to feel a bit homesick. Parents can help by expressing confidence in their child’s ability to handle being away from home.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, both parents and campers can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and enriching experience at Camp Dogwood.

Camp Dogwood is more than just a summer camp; it’s a community that fosters growth, friendship, and a deep appreciation for nature. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sherrills Ford, North Carolina, their camp provides a perfect setting for children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With a diverse range of activities, dedicated staff, and a commitment to safety and inclusivity, Camp Dogwood offers an enriching summer experience that equips campers with the tools they need for both personal and social development.

They understand the importance of each camper’s experience and strive to make every moment count. From the thrilling adventures on Lake Norman to the quiet moments of camaraderie around the campfire, Camp Dogwood is a place where every child can thrive and discover their potential. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, they look forward to welcoming you to their community and sharing an unforgettable summer together. Join us at Camp Dogwood, where summer is not just a season, but a chance to grow, explore, and be part of something truly special.