Nestled in the serene landscapes of Fairmont, North Carolina, Camp Grace stands as a beacon of adventure and learning. Located in the picturesque region of southeastern North Carolina, this camp is not far from notable landmarks such as Lumber River State Park, offering a natural sanctuary for their campers to explore.

Founded on the ideals of growth and community, Camp Grace has a storied history of providing enriching experiences to young minds. Since its inception, the camp has been dedicated to nurturing the physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of its attendees through a mix of traditional camp activities and innovative educational programs.

Their mission is clear: “To foster a nurturing environment where young individuals can grow in character and skills, build lifelong friendships, and develop a deep appreciation for the outdoors.” They believe in the transformative power of camp life and aim to instill values of teamwork, respect, and leadership in all their campers.

Camp Grace offers a gender-inclusive environment where both boys and girls, aged 6 to 16, can experience the joys and challenges of camp life. Each session is tailored to foster age-appropriate skills and confidence, ensuring that every camper leaves with lasting memories and a reinforced sense of self.

Join us at Camp Grace, where fun meets purpose, and every day is a new adventure!

Programs Offered by Camp Grace

Camp Grace offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the varied interests and developmental needs of their campers. Each session is carefully structured to provide a balanced mix of fun, learning, and personal growth.

1. Session Lengths:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions introduce the camp experience with a gentle pace and plenty of support.
Two-Week Sessions: These extended sessions allow for deeper exploration of activities and more profound personal connections.
Full Summer Option: For the ultimate Camp Grace experience, campers can spend the entire summer with us, enjoying a comprehensive program that builds progressively over the weeks.

2. Specialty Programs:

Arts: Their arts program includes everything from painting and sculpture to performance arts like drama and dance. Campers express creativity and discover new talents in a supportive environment.
Sports: Focused on both individual and team sports, their sports program covers a variety of activities such as soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery. Emphasis is on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science and Nature: Campers engage with the natural world through hands-on science experiments, environmental education, and outdoor survival skills. This program is designed to ignite curiosity and respect for the environment.

3. Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing morning routine.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: Energize with a nutritious meal.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Campers participate in their chosen specialty area or a rotation of diverse activities.
12:00 PM – Lunch: A time for rest and refueling.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: Campers relax and recharge with activities like reading or journaling.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: Continue the adventure with different activities or deeper dives into the morning sessions.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers enjoy some free play or social time.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Gather for a hearty dinner and share the day’s experiences.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Each evening features a special event such as a campfire, talent show, or group games.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: For younger campers, with older campers following at 10:00 PM.

At Camp Grace, every day is a balanced blend of excitement, learning, and relaxation, ensuring that each camper has a fulfilling and memorable summer.

Accommodations in Camp Grace

At Camp Grace, they ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable camp experience. Here’s what you can expect in terms of accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Their primary accommodation option consists of cozy, well-maintained cabins that house 8-10 campers each, along with 2 counselors. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and windows for natural light and ventilation. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to foster a family-like atmosphere among campers.
Dormitories: For older campers, they offer dormitory-style accommodations that promote independence and responsibility. These are equipped with individual beds, personal lockers, and common areas for socializing.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Grace provides three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by their experienced kitchen staff. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences. Their menu is designed to be kid-friendly and nutritious, providing the energy needed for active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents can discuss their child’s specific dietary requirements with us during registration to ensure all needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Bathrooms: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom facility, which is shared among the cabins in that cluster. Bathrooms are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and stocked with necessary supplies like toilet paper and hand soap.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are available, featuring individual stalls for privacy. These facilities are also gender-segregated and are cleaned multiple times a day to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Camp Grace is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment, allowing campers to focus fully on their activities and interactions. Whether resting in their cabins or dining with friends, campers will find their physical accommodations enhance their overall camp experience.

Activities in Camp Grace

Camp Grace is designed to engage campers in a variety of activities that promote physical health, creative expression, and personal development. Here’s a closer look at what they offer:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Summer camps, daily swim sessions in their on-site pool, with lessons available for beginners and free swim for more experienced swimmers.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the nearby trails, allowing campers to explore the natural beauty of North Carolina and learn about local wildlife and plants.
Crafts: A range of craft activities such as pottery, beadwork, painting, and woodworking, encouraging creativity and fine motor skills.
Sports: A variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at the camp’s open-stage nights.
Outdoor Skills: Instruction in essential outdoor skills like navigation, camping, and fire-building, fostering a deeper connection with nature and boosting self-reliance.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires: Regular campfire nights featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, which foster community and tradition.
Color Wars: An exciting, camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges.
End-of-Summer Festival: A celebration at the end of the summer season featuring games, performances by campers, and a showcase of crafts made during camp.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers to develop leadership skills, including opportunities to mentor younger campers and lead group activities.
Environmental Education: Programs that teach campers about conservation, wildlife, and the impact of humans on the environment, promoting stewardship and responsible behaviors.
Creative Workshops: Specialized workshops in arts and crafts that not only enhance creativity but also teach campers about different artistic techniques and histories.

At Camp Grace, activities and events are carefully chosen to ensure that every camper can find something they love, while also being encouraged to try new things. The diverse offerings help develop a range of skills from teamwork and leadership to creativity and self-expression, ensuring that campers leave with new abilities, confidence, and lifelong memories.

The staff of Camp Grace

At Camp Grace, they pride themselves on their dedicated and highly qualified staff, who play a crucial role in creating a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of their staffing details:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Their ratio is approximately one staff member to every six campers, which helps us maintain a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teaching colleges, and through referrals from current and former staff. This diverse recruitment strategy helps us find passionate and skilled individuals who are dedicated to youth development.
Screening: All potential staff members undergo a rigorous screening process, including background checks, reference checks, and interviews. This process helps ensure that they hire individuals who are not only qualified but also share their camp’s values and mission.
Qualifications: Their staff typically includes experienced educators, college students majoring in education or related fields, and seasoned camp professionals. Many staff members return year after year, providing valuable continuity and experience.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before camp begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity leadership. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to handle a variety of situations that may arise at camp.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. They also have staff with advanced medical training, such as registered nurses or EMTs, present on-site.
Specialized Training: Staff responsible for specific activities, such as swimming or archery, hold additional certifications relevant to their areas (e.g., lifeguard certification, archery instructor certification).

Their staff’s expertise and dedication are central to the Camp Grace experience. They are not just supervisors or instructors; they are role models and mentors who are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of each camper. With their guidance, Camp Grace is a place where children can safely challenge themselves, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships.

Safety and Health in Camp Grace

Ensuring the safety and well-being of every camper at Camp Grace is their top priority. They have comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities in place to create a secure and nurturing environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to act in various scenarios.
Activity Safety: All activities are supervised by staff trained in that specific area. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and safety gear must be used for activities such as archery, swimming, and any adventure sports.
Secure Premises: Their campgrounds are monitored with appropriate security measures, including controlled access points and night-time security personnel to ensure the safety of all campers and staff.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Grace has a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified medical personnel, including registered nurses and on-call physicians. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and minor injuries.
Medication Management: Their medical staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions. Parents are required to provide detailed medical information and instructions during the registration process.
Mental Health Support: Understanding the importance of mental well-being, they also provide support for campers who may be experiencing anxiety or homesickness through trained counselors and staff.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Preparedness: All staff members are trained in emergency preparedness, including handling natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to inform all relevant parties. This includes notifying local emergency services, contacting parents or guardians, and coordinating with local authorities.
Evacuation Plans: Evacuation routes and plans are well-established and communicated to staff and campers. Regular drills ensure that everyone knows how to exit the camp safely and quickly if needed.

Through these rigorous safety and health protocols, Camp Grace ensures that the environment is not only fun and enriching but also exceptionally safe for all campers. Their goal is to give parents peace of mind while their children enjoy a memorable summer experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Grace

Understanding the financial considerations of families is important to us, and they strive to make the camp experience accessible while maintaining the highest quality of programming. Here are the details on cost, registration, and financial support options at Camp Grace.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Camp Grace varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. Prices typically range from:
- One-Week Session: $500
- Two-Week Session: $950
- Full Summer (Eight Weeks): $3600
What’s Included: The fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, supervision, and camp materials. Additional costs may include optional extras such as special trips, camp merchandise, or specific craft materials.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their user-friendly online portal. The registration process involves filling out camper details, and medical information, and selecting preferred sessions and activities.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and continues through spring. They encourage early registration as spaces fill up quickly and it also often comes with an ‘early bird’ discount.
Confirmation: Once registration is completed and payment is processed, families will receive a confirmation email with a packet of camp information, including packing lists, schedules, and other preparatory details.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a month before the session begins. After this point, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as severe weather or health emergencies, they offer options for rescheduling or refunds as applicable.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Grace is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible. They offer a limited number of scholarships based on financial need, which can cover up to 50-100% of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the family’s situation and funding availability. They encourage families to apply early for financial assistance as resources are limited.

At Camp Grace, they believe in the value of their camp experience and work diligently to ensure it is within reach for all families interested in their programs. They aim to be transparent about costs and supportive of financial aid options, ensuring every child has the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from their time at camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Grace

To ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience, Camp Grace provides comprehensive guidance and support. Here are the essentials for preparing for camp, including what to pack, understanding camp rules, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session (including layers for cooler evenings), swimsuits, sports gear, and a rain jacket.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots for hiking or wet weather.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Extras: Hat, sunglasses, water bottle, flashlight, or headlamp with extra batteries.
Optional: Books, writing materials, and small games or toys.
Do Not Bring Valuable items like expensive jewelry or electronics, as Camp Grace is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Grace has a no-electronics policy for campers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Emergency contact with parents is facilitated through camp phones and staff.
Visitation: For the safety and security of all campers, visitation during sessions is generally not allowed except on specially designated family days.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Campers are to participate in activities and adhere to the schedule and rules of the camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Engage in Pre-Camp Meetings: If available, attend any orientation or pre-camp meetings to become familiar with what to expect.
- Practice Independence: Try spending some time away from home or having sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ houses to ease the transition to camp life.
- Positive Mindset: Approach camp with an open and positive mindset, ready to make new friends and try new activities.
For Parents:
- Stay Informed: Read all provided materials from the camp to understand the schedule, activities, and what your child will be experiencing.
- Communication: Discuss what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and adventures ahead.
- Set Goals: Talk about goals for the camp, like learning a new skill or making new friends, which can help your child stay focused and excited.

Preparing for camp can be as fun as the camp experience itself, especially when both campers and parents know what to expect. Camp Grace is dedicated to making the preparation process as smooth and clear as possible, ensuring that every camper is ready for a summer of growth, learning, and fun.

At Camp Grace in Fairmont, North Carolina, they are more than just a summer camp—they are a community where children come to grow, learn, and explore in a nurturing environment. Their diverse range of programs, from arts and sports to science and outdoor adventures, ensures that every camper finds something they love while discovering new passions. The careful planning of activities, combined with their skilled and compassionate staff, ensures a summer filled with fun, friendship, and personal development.

With their commitment to safety, inclusivity, and fostering a sense of community, Camp Grace provides an ideal setting for children to step out of their comfort zones, develop new skills, and build confidence. The experiences gained here are not just for a season but for a lifetime, helping shape young individuals into future leaders and compassionate citizens.