Welcome to Camp Green Cove, a unique and enchanting summer camp located in the picturesque town of Zirconia, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the well-known landmark, Green River Preserve, Camp Green Cove offers a stunning backdrop for the adventures that fill every day of camp life.

Since its founding in 1945, Camp Green Cove has been dedicated to fostering independence, exploration, and a love for nature among young girls. Their mission is to provide a safe, joyful, and supportive environment where campers can discover their true selves, develop a deep respect for the natural world, and build lifelong friendships. They believe in the power of traditional camp activities to promote personal growth and leadership skills in a non-competitive atmosphere.

As a girls-only camp, they welcome campers aged 6 to 17 from all over the country and the world. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs and interests of different age groups, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to challenge herself, learn new skills, and have a tremendous amount of fun in a caring community setting. At Camp Green Cove, every day is a new adventure!

Programs Offered by Camp Green Cove

Camp Green Cove offers a wide array of programs designed to engage, challenge, and inspire their campers through the summer months. Each program is crafted to build skills, foster personal growth, and provide a fun, supportive environment for girls to explore their interests.

Programs Description

Their programs cover a broad spectrum of activities including outdoor adventures, water sports, horseback riding, and artistic endeavors. Campers can choose from activities such as kayaking, sailing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and nature exploration. Arts and crafts, drama, music, and dance are also integral parts of their camp experience, allowing campers to express their creativity and learn new crafts.

Length of Sessions

Camp Green Cove offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs and schedules of different families. Options include:

One-week sessions for younger campers or those new to the camp experience.
Two-week sessions which provide a deeper dive into camp activities and community building.
Full summer sessions for a comprehensive, immersive experience where campers can fully engage in all aspects of camp life and personal development.

Specialty Programs

They also offer specialty programs that focus on specific interests:

Arts programs that include pottery, weaving, painting, and photography workshops.
Sports programs focused on developing skills in archery, tennis, swimming, and equestrian sports.
Environmental science programs that encourage exploration and conservation of the natural world through hands-on activities and field trips.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Green Cove is structured to provide a balance of activity, personal time, and community engagement. Here’s how a day might look:

7:30 AM: Wake-up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (campers attend their chosen activities)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfire, talent show, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This daily routine is designed to maximize engagement in a variety of activities while also ensuring that campers have enough downtime to rest and rejuvenate, fostering a balanced and enjoyable summer camp experience.

Accommodations in Camp Green Cove

At Camp Green Cove, they believe that a comfortable and safe living environment is crucial for an enjoyable camp experience. Their accommodations are designed to nurture a sense of community and belonging among campers while also respecting their need for personal space and comfort.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Green Cove stay in rustic, yet cozy cabins that blend into the natural surroundings of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12, and is grouped by age to ensure that the social environment is supportive and age-appropriate. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, personal storage space for each camper, and have easy access to central bathhouses.

Dining Options

Mealtimes at Camp Green Cove are not just about eating; they are a time for the camp community to come together and share their day’s experiences. They offer a variety of meal plans that cater to the nutritional needs and preferences of all campers. Their dining hall serves three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by their skilled culinary team. They pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.

They are fully equipped to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meal plans. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle dietary needs with the utmost care to ensure that every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Green Cove are centrally located for easy access from all cabins. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, ensuring cleanliness and privacy. Each bathhouse is equipped with multiple stalls, sinks, and private shower cubicles, allowing campers to maintain their daily routines comfortably. Hot water is available throughout the day, and the facilities are cleaned multiple times daily to uphold their high standards of hygiene and comfort.

Overall, Camp Green Cove’s accommodations are designed to create a homely and secure environment, where campers can unwind after a day full of activities and feel refreshed and ready for their next adventure.

Activities in Camp Green Cove

Camp Green Cove offers a diverse range of activities designed to engage campers in both familiar interests and new adventures. Here is an overview of the activities and special experiences that make their camp truly special.

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and orienteering.
Equestrian: Horseback riding lessons and trail rides.
Athletic Sports: Archery, tennis, and soccer.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, weaving, jewelry making, and painting.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music.
Nature and Science: Environmental education, gardening, and wildlife studies.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Green Cove is rich in traditions and special events that build community spirit and create lasting memories. Some of their cherished traditions include:

Opening Campfire: A welcome event where campers and staff introduce themselves and share goals for the summer.
Green Cove Olympics: An end-of-session event featuring a variety of fun, team-oriented activities.
Theme Days: Regularly scheduled special days where activities are centered around a fun theme, such as Pirate Day or Backwards Day.
Final Banquet and Campfire: A celebratory evening at the end of each session where achievements are recognized and campers reflect on their experiences.

Skill Development Opportunities

At Camp Green Cove, they emphasize skill progression and personal growth through their activity offerings. Each activity is structured to accommodate different skill levels, ensuring that all campers, from beginners to advanced, find both challenge and success. Their skilled instructors are dedicated to helping campers set and achieve personal goals, whether they are learning to swim, mastering a climbing route, or completing a complex art project.

Their program also includes leadership training for older campers, focusing on responsibility, teamwork, and communication skills. These opportunities prepare them for roles as future leaders both at camp and in their communities.

By participating in these activities and special events, campers at Green Cove not only have fun and make new friends but also develop important life skills, enhancing their confidence, resilience, and respect for others and the environment.

The staff of Camp Green Cove

The staff at Camp Green Cove is central to creating a supportive, safe, and fun environment for their campers. They are committed to maintaining high standards in staffing to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and care.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Green Cove maintains an excellent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper gets the attention and guidance they need. Their ratio is approximately one staff member for every four campers, which allows their team to effectively supervise, mentor, and engage with campers, providing a secure and nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Their staff is carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes multiple interviews, thorough background checks, and reference verifications. They look for candidates who are passionate about working with children, have prior experience in camping or related fields, and exhibit strong character and leadership skills.

Qualifications for their staff typically include:

A minimum age of 18, with a preference for college students or graduates.
Previous experience in camp settings, teaching, or child care.
Specialized skills relevant to the activities they will be leading, such as sports, arts, or outdoor adventure.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, all staff members undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and activity-specific safety. In addition, all staff members are required to have current certifications in:

CPR: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.
First Aid: Basic and Advanced First Aid Techniques.
Lifeguarding: For staff involved in water-based activities.

They also provide additional training in areas such as conflict resolution, team building, and leadership to further enhance their staff’s ability to provide a positive and enriching camp experience. Their goal is to equip every staff member with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure camper safety and foster a supportive community at Camp Green Cove.

Safety and Health in Camp Green Cove

At Camp Green Cove, the safety and well-being of their campers and staff are paramount. They have comprehensive safety protocols and health policies in place to ensure that everyone enjoys a secure and healthy camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Green Cove is proactive in maintaining a safe environment by implementing the following safety measures:

Regular Safety Drills: Conducted to prepare campers and staff for a variety of emergency situations, including fire, severe weather, and evacuation procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity at camp, especially those involving higher risks like swimming or climbing, follows strict safety guidelines. Staff are trained in activity-specific safety and supervise all activities closely.
Equipment Checks: Regular inspection and maintenance of all equipment used in camp activities to ensure it is in safe working condition.
Secure Campus: The camp maintains controlled access to its facilities, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Green Cove is equipped with an on-site health clinic staffed by qualified medical personnel. their health services include:

Medical Staff: Their health clinic is staffed by licensed nurses and/or a visiting physician. Medical staff are available 24/7 to handle any health issues that arise.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival at camp, all campers undergo health screenings to identify any immediate health concerns and to inform staff of any existing conditions.
Medication Management: The health clinic manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Their emergency handling policies are designed to address potential risks swiftly and effectively:

Emergency Communication Plan: In case of a major emergency, Camp Green Cove has a well-established communication plan to inform parents and guardians. This includes direct communication through phone and email, as well as updates provided via the camps.
Local Hospital Collaboration: The camp maintains a relationship with nearby hospitals to ensure quick medical attention if needed. Transport to these facilities is facilitated swiftly by camp vehicles or local emergency services.
Continuous Staff Training: All staff participate in regular training sessions on emergency procedures, ensuring they are prepared to respond appropriately to any situation.

Through these meticulous safety and health measures, Camp Green Cove ensures that campers can enjoy all that camp has to offer in a secure and caring environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp Green Cove

Camp Green Cove strives to make the registration process transparent and the camp experience accessible to families through clear cost structures, flexible payment plans, and financial aid options.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Green Cove varies depending on the session length and specific programs chosen. Generally, fees for camp include:

All activities: Full access to all camp programs and activities.
Accommodation and Meals: Housing in well-maintained cabins and three nutritious meals per day, along with snacks.
Equipment Use: All equipment needed for camp activities.
Health Services: On-site medical services as needed.

Registration Process and Deadlines

To register for Camp Green Cove:

Visit their Camp: Complete the online registration form.
Submit a deposit: A deposit is required to secure a camper’s spot, with the remainder of the fee due by a specified deadline before camp begins.
Health and Consent Forms: Submit necessary health documentation and consent forms by the deadlines provided upon registration.

Deadlines for registration are typically set a few months before the start of the summer sessions to allow for proper planning and preparation.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the summer.
Refunds: Full refunds, minus the deposit, are available up to a certain date. After this date, refunds may be partial or not available, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: Detailed information about what qualifies for a refund under different circumstances (like illness or family emergencies) is available.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Camp Green Cove is committed to making camp accessible to as many families as possible. They offer:

Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are available to help reduce the cost of camp for families who require financial assistance.
Financial Aid: Various forms of financial aid are available and can be applied for through a separate application process.

They encourage families seeking financial support to apply early, as funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

With these comprehensive registration and payment options, Camp Green Cove aims to make the enriching experience of summer camp available to all interested families.

The summer camp fees at Camp Green Cove in Zirconia, NC depend on the length of your child’s stay:

One week: $2,380
Three weeks: $5,700
Five weeks: $8,200

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Green Cove

Preparing for camp, especially for first-timers, can be exciting and a bit daunting. At Camp Green Cove, they aim to make this process as smooth as possible with clear guidelines and helpful tips for both parents and campers.

Packing List

For a comfortable and convenient camp experience, they recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session (including items for warm and cool weather), pajamas, swimwear, rain gear, and sturdy footwear (hiking boots, sneakers).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the camper’s preference), pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small tote to carry these items to the bathhouse.
Equipment: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and any specific gear related to their chosen activities (though most specialized equipment is provided by the camp).
Optional Items: Books, stationary, and a camera (non-smartphone if possible).

Label all items with the camper’s name to prevent loss.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: They promote a technology-free environment to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged and, if brought, will be collected and stored safely upon arrival.
Visitation: To ensure the security and structure of the camp program, visitation is generally limited to designated visiting days. Specific details and schedules are provided prior to the start of the camp session.
General Conduct: Respect for others, positive behavior, and engagement in scheduled activities are expected from all campers. Specific rules and guidelines are provided to campers and parents before arrival.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarization: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help alleviate any nervousness.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they’ll use at camp, such as making the bed, organizing their belongings, and showering on their own.
Communication: Talk about how you will communicate (e.g., letters, emails) during their time at camp. Setting expectations can help manage any homesickness.
Stay Positive: Emphasize the positive aspects of camp during conversations to build excitement.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and responsibility.

By following these guidelines and tips, parents and campers can feel more prepared and excited about the upcoming adventure at Camp Green Cove.

Camp Green Cove offers a vibrant and enriching summer experience for girls aged 6 to 17 in the stunning setting of Zirconia, North Carolina. With a broad range of activities, from water sports and outdoor adventures to arts and crafts, coupled with a supportive, nurturing environment, Camp Green Cove is dedicated to fostering personal growth, independence, and lifelong friendships. The camp’s emphasis on safety, community, and personal development ensures that each camper not only has fun but also gains valuable life skills.

The comprehensive preparation guidance, flexible registration, and dedicated staff make Camp Green Cove an ideal choice for parents seeking a meaningful summer camp experience for their daughters. Whether a first-timer or a returning camper, each girl is guaranteed to leave with cherished memories and a reinforced sense of confidence and achievement. Join us at Camp Green Cove for a summer filled with adventure, learning, and laughter, set in one of the most beautiful natural environments the East Coast has to offer.