Welcome to Camp Merri-Mac, a cherished summer destination nestled in the picturesque town of Black Mountain, North Carolina. Situated in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this exclusive girls’ camp offers a serene setting rich in natural beauty, making it an ideal backdrop for adventure, growth, and friendship.

Since its establishment, Camp Merri-Mac has been dedicated to fostering an environment where young girls can thrive. Their camp’s philosophy is centered on building character, nurturing talents, and empowering girls to become confident leaders. They believe in the importance of traditional camping experiences, combined with the guidance of supportive staff and the strong bonds of community.

At Camp Merri-Mac, they cater to girls of various age groups, providing them with an opportunity to explore a wide range of activities tailored to their interests and abilities. From horseback riding and archery to arts and crafts, their campers enjoy a fun-filled summer that is both enriching and transformative.

Join us at Camp Merri-Mac for a summer of unforgettable memories and friendships that last a lifetime!

Programs Offered by Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the varied interests and developmental needs of its campers. Each program is thoughtfully curated to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable summer experience.

Description of Programs:

Camp Merri-Mac provides an extensive selection of activities that allow girls to explore their interests, learn new skills, and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. These activities include:

Outdoor Adventures: Rock climbing, canoeing, and hiking.
Water Sports: Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Equestrian Programs: Horseback riding lessons and trail rides.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, weaving, and jewelry making.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music.
Team and Individual Sports: Archery, tennis, and soccer.
Leadership Training: Programs designed to develop leadership skills and self-confidence.

Length of Sessions:

Campers can choose from different session lengths to best fit their summer plans:

One-week sessions are perfect for first-time campers or those looking for a brief camp experience.
Two-week sessions offer a more immersive experience with the opportunity to delve deeper into activities.
Full summer sessions allow campers to experience the complete range of activities and personal growth opportunities that Camp Merri-Mac has to offer.

Specialty Programs:

In addition to general camp activities, Merri-Mac offers specialty programs that focus on specific interests:

Arts Program: Intensive arts and crafts workshops.
Sports Clinics: Specialized clinics in various sports for skill development.
Science Explorers: Programs focusing on environmental science and nature exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A typical day at Camp Merri-Mac is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, free time, and community gatherings:

Morning: Wake-up call, followed by breakfast and morning chapel or assembly.
Morning Activities: Campers participate in their chosen activities.
Lunch: A communal time to refuel and relax.
Rest Hour: Time for campers to rest and recharge.
Afternoon Activities: A continuation of different activities.
Dinner: Gather for a nutritious meal and socialize.
Evening Program: Evening activities vary daily, including campfires, talent shows, and themed nights.

Camp Merri-Mac’s commitment to providing a rich and varied summer experience helps each camper to grow personally and socially in a fun and safe environment.

Accommodations in Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac provides comfortable and safe accommodations that are designed to enhance the camping experience while fostering community and friendship among the campers.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers at Merri-Mac stay in charming, rustic cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each cabin houses a group of campers along with a few counselors, which helps to build a close-knit community. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings, ensuring a cozy and communal living experience.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Merri-Mac offers a full meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals each day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. The dining hall serves as a central gathering place where campers can enjoy meals together and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements their child has in advance so that appropriate accommodations can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located and are shared among the cabins. The facilities are well-maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort. Separate shower stalls ensure privacy and convenience for the campers.
Accessibility: Facilities are designed to accommodate campers with disabilities, ensuring that every camper has access to the necessary amenities.

Camp Merri-Mac’s accommodations are designed to ensure that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay, making their summer experience both memorable and rewarding.

Activities in Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac offers a wide array of activities that cater to various interests, ensuring every camper finds something they enjoy and have opportunities to try new things. The camp also hosts special events and traditions that enrich the camp experience and foster a sense of community and belonging among the campers.

List of Activities Offered:

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Land Sports: Soccer, tennis, archery, and horseback riding.
Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, hiking, and camping expeditions.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Dance, drama, and music classes.
Nature Exploration: Environmental education, gardening, and animal care.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are times of celebration that mark the beginning and end of the camp season, featuring performances, speeches, and the presentation of awards.
Tribal Competitions: Campers are divided into tribes that compete in various friendly competitions throughout the summer, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Themed Nights: From costume parties to talent shows, themed nights are a fun way for campers to express themselves and enjoy entertainment.
Campfires: Regular campfires offer a chance for storytelling, singing, and bonding over marshmallows, creating lasting memories.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Programs designed to cultivate leadership qualities, such as responsibility, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Specialty Clinics: For campers looking to focus on specific skills, specialty clinics in sports, arts, and science offer intensive instruction and improvement.
Merit Badges: In various activities, campers can earn badges that recognize their proficiency and achievements, encouraging ongoing skill development and personal growth.

Camp Merri-Mac’s diverse activities, special events, and skill development opportunities are designed to nurture not only the abilities but also the personal growth of each camper, creating a summer filled with learning, adventure, and fun.

The staff of Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is supported by a highly qualified and well-trained staff, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Camp Merri-Mac maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives adequate supervision and support. The typical ratio is one staff member for every four campers, which allows staff to effectively monitor and engage all campers in activities, fostering a safe and inclusive camp environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Selection Process: Potential staff members go through a rigorous selection process that includes thorough background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure they are suitable for their roles.
Qualifications: Staff are typically required to have previous experience in childcare or camp environments. Many are education professionals, college students pursuing related fields, or individuals with significant experience in specialized activities offered at the camp.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific safety protocols.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in water safety, wilderness first aid, and other relevant areas is provided depending on the activities they will be leading.
Continuous Education: Camp Merri-Mac encourages continuous professional development and offers ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season to ensure staff skills and knowledge are up-to-date.

The staff at Camp Merri-Mac are not only equipped with the necessary skills and training to ensure camper safety and well-being but are also passionate about making the camp experience as fun, educational, and rewarding as possible. This dedication is a cornerstone of the camp’s philosophy and success.

Safety and Health in Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac prioritizes the safety and health of all its campers, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining excellent facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment throughout the camp season.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: Camp Merri-Mac conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are prepared in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp follows strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and supervision always in place. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and safety harnesses are used for climbing.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with secure entrances and is monitored to prevent unauthorized access. Staff are trained to ensure that all campers are accounted for at all times.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Merri-Mac has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians, to handle medical needs. The center is prepared to treat minor injuries and illnesses and can stabilize more serious conditions until further medical treatment can be accessed.
Health Checks: Upon arrival at camp, all campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing health issues or potential needs during their stay. This ensures that the health staff is aware of and prepared to handle any special medical requirements.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines specific steps to be taken in various scenarios, from natural disasters to health emergencies. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards and situations.
Communication Protocol: In case of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to quickly inform all relevant parties, including staff, local emergency services, and parents. The camp ensures that families are kept informed of any significant issues affecting their children.
Transportation for Emergencies: For emergencies requiring hospital care, Camp Merri-Mac has procedures in place for quick and safe transportation to the nearest hospital or medical facility.

These rigorous safety and health protocols at Camp Merri-Mac ensure that the camp environment is as safe as possible, allowing campers to enjoy their activities and experiences without unnecessary risk, and giving parents peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac aims to provide an enriching camp experience that is accessible to families with different financial capabilities. The camp’s registration process is designed to be straightforward and transparent, ensuring that all necessary information is clearly communicated.

Cost of Attendance:

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Merri-Mac covers all lodging, meals, activities, and instruction. It also includes any equipment necessary for camp activities, camper insurance, and access to the health center.
Fees: The fees can vary depending on the length of the session chosen (one-week, two-week, or full summer options). Typically, costs range from $1,000 for a one-week session to over $5,000 for a full summer experience.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration Process: Parents can register their children through an online registration platform accessible via the camp’s website. The process involves filling out camper information, selecting session dates, and providing medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the camp season starts and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Camp Merri-Mac offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable. These plans can be arranged through the camp’s finance office.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a structured cancellation policy. A deposit is required at the time of registration, which is non-refundable. Cancellations made well in advance of the session start date may be eligible for a partial refund, while late cancellations may result in forfeiture of the entire camp fee.
Refund Insurance: Families have the option to purchase refund insurance, which provides a refund under certain circumstances like illness or family emergencies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Merri-Mac offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need of financial assistance. These scholarships are awarded based on financial need and camper merit.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs intended to make camp more accessible. Families are encouraged to inquire early about these opportunities as they are subject to availability and specific criteria.

Camp Merri-Mac is committed to ensuring that its camp experiences are within reach for as many girls as possible, offering various financial options and support to help families manage the cost of attendance.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Merri-Mac

Camp Merri-Mac wants every camper to have a successful and enjoyable experience. To help parents and campers prepare for their adventure, here are some essential tips and guidelines, including a packing list, camp rules and policies, and helpful advice for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List:

To ensure that campers have everything they need for a comfortable stay, the following items are recommended:

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including long pants, shorts, t-shirts, swimwear, and a jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for casual wear, and closed-toe shoes for activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and other personal hygiene items.
Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Insect Repellent: To keep bugs at bay during outdoor activities.
Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-digital if possible to avoid damage).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Merri-Mac has a no electronics policy to encourage campers to engage fully with their environment and peers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit on designated visiting days only, which helps maintain the camp schedule and reduces homesickness.
Behavior: Campers are expected to adhere to the camp’s code of conduct, which promotes respect, kindness, and cooperation among all camp members.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Pre-Camp Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friendships to be made. This can help alleviate any anxiety.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the upcoming adventure.
Setting Goals: Encourage your camper to set personal goals for their time at camp, such as trying a new activity or making new friends.
Handling Homesickness: Reassure your child that it’s normal to feel homesick and that the camp staff is trained to help them cope. Sending pre-written letters or care packages for them to open while at camp can also be comforting.
After Camp: Plan to discuss their experiences and listen to their stories, showing interest in their achievements and challenges.

By preparing adequately and setting the right expectations, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smooth and enjoyable introduction to the wonderful world of summer camp at Camp Merri-Mac.

Camp Merri-Mac stands out as a premier destination for young girls seeking a summer filled with growth, adventure, and lasting friendships. Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, this camp offers a safe, nurturing environment where campers can explore a diverse array of activities and discover their talents under the guidance of caring and skilled staff. With its commitment to fostering independence and confidence, Merri-Mac provides a unique opportunity for girls to develop life skills and create memories that will last a lifetime.

From its comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities to its extensive range of programs and activities, Camp Merri-Mac is dedicated to ensuring that each camper has an enriching and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s their first summer or they are returning campers, girls leave Merri-Mac with a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, equipped with new skills and friendships that enrich their lives long after the summer ends.