Welcome to Camp Pinnacle, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Hendersonville, North Carolina. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Appalachian Range and close to notable landmarks such as the Pisgah National Forest, this camp provides a serene backdrop for unforgettable summer adventures.

Founded with a rich history of over a century, Camp Pinnacle has been a beacon of joy and learning for generations. It began as a retreat for young adventurers and has evolved into a cherished summer destination, maintaining its tradition of fostering independence and growth through outdoor experiences.

At the heart of Camp Pinnacle is a mission to inspire campers to build character, develop relationships, and explore the great outdoors. The camp’s philosophy is grounded in the belief that meaningful outdoor experiences contribute significantly to personal development and lifelong learning.

Camp Pinnacle offers an experience, welcoming boys and girls aged 7 to 15. Each session is carefully crafted to cater to the specific age group, ensuring that every camper receives the right balance of fun, learning, and adventure. Join us at Camp Pinnacle, where every summer unfolds into a story of adventure, friendship, and discovery.

Programs Offered by Camp Pinnacle

Camp Pinnacle offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children ages 7 to 15. The camp’s programming emphasizes outdoor adventure, personal growth, and community building, all within the breathtaking setting of the North Carolina mountains.

Description of Programs

Camp Pinnacle provides a variety of session lengths to accommodate different preferences and schedules:

One-Week Explorer Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions introduce the camp’s activities and traditions in a shorter, manageable timeframe.
Two-Week Adventure Sessions: These are the most popular sessions, offering a deeper dive into the camp’s full range of activities and community experiences.
Four-Week Leadership Sessions: Aimed at older campers, these sessions focus on leadership development and advanced skills in various outdoor activities.

Specialty Programs

In addition to the traditional camp activities such as hiking, canoeing, and camping, Camp Pinnacle offers several specialty programs:

Arts Program: Includes crafts, theater, and music, encouraging creative expression among campers.
Sports Program: Focuses on physical fitness and sportsmanship, offering activities like soccer, basketball, and archery.
Environmental Science Program: Engages campers with the natural world through hands-on environmental education, sustainability projects, and wildlife studies.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Pinnacle is structured to balance activity with downtime, ensuring that campers stay engaged and energized without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (rotating through selected programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
1:30 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening programs (campfires, talent shows, group games)
9:00 PM: Cabin time and preparation for bed
10:00 PM: Lights out

This structured yet flexible schedule allows campers to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships under the guidance of experienced and caring staff.

Accommodations in Camp Pinnacle

Camp Pinnacle provides comfortable and inviting accommodations designed to enhance the camp experience while keeping campers safe and secure. The camp’s facilities are thoughtfully integrated into the natural surroundings, promoting a deep connection with the outdoors.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that are both charming and functional. Each cabin houses 8-12 campers along with 2 counselors, ensuring close supervision and a family-like atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. Strategically placed throughout the campgrounds, these cabins offer beautiful views of the surrounding forests and mountains.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Pinnacle offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. The menu is designed to be kid-friendly and nutritious, providing the energy campers need for their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, the camp’s kitchen staff is trained to handle various dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Parents can communicate any special dietary requirements during the registration process to ensure their child’s needs are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, centrally located for easy access from all cabins. The bathrooms are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Amenities: Each bathroom facility includes multiple showers, sinks, and toilets to accommodate the needs of the campers and prevent long waiting times. Privacy and safety are prioritized, with facilities designed to offer both.

These accommodations at Camp Pinnacle are designed to make the camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, allowing campers to focus on fun, learning, and adventure in a safe and supportive environment.

Activities in Camp Pinnacle

Camp Pinnacle offers an expansive array of activities that cater to diverse interests and encourage skill development, teamwork, and personal growth. These activities are designed to make the most of the camp’s stunning natural surroundings and state-of-the-art facilities.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing.
Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the camp’s private lake.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, and woodworking.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Nature Skills: Orienteering, environmental education, and survival skills.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music workshops.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Pinnacle is rich in traditions and special events that enhance the camp experience:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend each session, fostering a sense of community and accomplishment.
Campfire Nights: Featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, these evenings are essential to the Camp Pinnacle experience.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers compete in various activities, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
Pinnacle Olympics: An annual tradition where campers participate in a series of sports and games, celebrating sportsmanship and teamwork.
Theme Days: Regularly scheduled themed activities that encourage creativity and fun, such as Pirate Day or Superhero Day.

Skill Development Opportunities

At Camp Pinnacle, skill development is integral to each activity:

Leadership Skills: Older campers have opportunities to lead teams, plan events, and take on responsibilities that foster leadership qualities.
Environmental Awareness: Through hands-on environmental projects and nature exploration, campers learn about sustainability and conservation.
Personal Growth: Activities are designed to challenge campers, helping them to develop resilience, self-reliance, and confidence.
Social Skills: The communal living and group activities are perfect for building communication skills, empathy, and friendships.

Through these diverse activities, special events, and focused skill development opportunities, Camp Pinnacle ensures that every camper not only has a memorable summer but also takes away valuable life skills and lasting friendships.

The staff of Camp Pinnacle

At Camp Pinnacle, the staff are central to creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment. The camp takes great pride in its dedicated team, ensuring that all staff members are well-equipped to provide the best experience for campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Pinnacle maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and high-quality supervision. The ratio is approximately 1 staff member for every 4 campers, which exceeds typical industry standards. This allows staff to closely monitor and engage with each camper, providing a safe and supportive atmosphere.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff members are carefully selected from a pool of qualified candidates, often including former campers who are intimately familiar with the camp’s culture and values.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verification.
Qualifications: Staff are typically required to have experience in child care or education, a passion for outdoor activities, and a strong desire to work with children in a camp setting.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before campers arrive, all staff participate in an extensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in Advanced First Aid or Wilderness First Responder is provided for those involved in more adventurous activities.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may receive further specialized training, such as lifeguard certification for water-based activities or specific sports coaching certifications.

Camp Pinnacle’s commitment to a well-trained and qualified staff ensures that all campers enjoy a safe, fun, and enriching camp experience, underpinned by a team of caring and professional staff members. This approach not only enhances the quality of the camp program but also builds a trustworthy and secure environment for all participants.

Safety and Health in Camp Pinnacle

Camp Pinnacle is deeply committed to the safety and health of all its campers and staff. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols and maintains excellent facilities to address health needs and emergencies, ensuring that parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being during their stay.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills to ensure that campers and staff are familiar with procedures for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential incidents.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity is conducted with strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of appropriate gear and supervised by staff trained in that activity.
Secure Campground: The camp is monitored to ensure only authorized persons are on the premises, with staff trained to handle any security issues promptly.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Pinnacle is equipped with a well-staffed health center, which operates 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is managed by licensed healthcare professionals, typically including nurses and occasionally a visiting doctor.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or needs, ensuring that individual health considerations are managed throughout their stay.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for storing and administering any medications campers need, following strict protocols to ensure safety.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan, which includes evacuation routes, designated safe areas, and procedures for communicating with parents and local emergency services.
Training for Staff: All staff members receive training on how to respond to various types of emergencies, both medical and environmental.
Partnerships with Local Services: Camp Pinnacle maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire, police, and hospitals, ensuring a quick response time in case of a serious incident.

Through these rigorous safety and health protocols, Camp Pinnacle provides a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities and thrive, while parents have peace of mind knowing that comprehensive measures are in place to ensure their children’s safety and well-being.

Cost and Registration in Camp Pinnacle

Camp Pinnacle ensures that the process of registration and understanding the costs involved is straightforward and transparent, providing various options to accommodate families’ needs.

Cost of Attendance

Cost Overview: The cost of attending Camp Pinnacle varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, prices range from $1,000 for one-week sessions to over $3,500 for the four-week leadership programs.
Included in the Cost: The fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, all scheduled activities, equipment use, and 24/7 supervision by trained staff. Transportation to and from the camp is generally not included but can be arranged for an additional fee.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through Camp Pinnacle’s online registration system. The system is user-friendly and guides parents through each step of the process.
Deadlines: It’s advisable to register early as sessions can fill up quickly. Deadlines for each session are usually set a few months in advance, with specific dates provided on the camps.
Documentation: During registration, parents need to provide medical information and any necessary consent forms as part of the enrollment process.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Pinnacle offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of attendance. These plans typically allow parents to pay in installments over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a structured refund policy, where full or partial refunds are available until a certain date before the camp begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only a partial refund might be offered, depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
Cancellation Insurance: Parents are encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance to cover unexpected situations that prevent their child from attending as planned.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Pinnacle offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need of financial assistance. These scholarships are typically merit-based or need-based.
Application for Financial Aid: Families seeking financial aid are required to submit an application detailing their financial situation, which the camp’s scholarship committee reviews. Deadlines for these applications are usually set well in advance of the camp season.

Camp Pinnacle is committed to making its transformative camp experience accessible and affordable to as many families as possible, offering various financial solutions to ensure that all interested campers have the opportunity to attend.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Pinnacle

Camp Pinnacle ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared for their upcoming camp experience by providing detailed guidelines on packing, rules, and helpful tips for first-time attendees.

Packing List

Camp Pinnacle provides a comprehensive packing list to ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and safe camp experience:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, swimwear, rain gear, and a warm jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, water shoes, and casual sandals.
Bedding: Sleeping bag, pillow, and bed linens (if not provided by the camp).
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Flashlight, water bottle, and optionally, a camera (non-smartphone).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and any specific gear related to their scheduled activities.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Pinnacle encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage more fully with their surroundings and peers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed, or their use is restricted to certain times and places.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on specific days designated by the camp. These visitation policies are designed to ensure the safety and structure of the camp program.
Behavioral Expectations: The camp enforces rules regarding camper conduct, emphasizing respect, cooperation, and kindness. Any form of bullying or disruptive behavior is dealt with promptly.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Encourage your child to be involved in the packing process so they are familiar with what they are bringing and can take ownership of their experience.
Communication: Discuss how to handle homesickness and the importance of communicating feelings with counselors and peers.
Set Expectations: Clearly outline what the camp experience will be like, including the types of activities available and the daily schedule, so your child knows what to expect.
Reassurance: Remind your child about the fun and new friendships to be made at camp, which can help alleviate any pre-camp anxiety.

By preparing effectively, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smooth transition into the camp environment, setting the stage for a successful and enjoyable experience at Camp Pinnacle.

Camp Pinnacle, nestled in the majestic landscapes of Hendersonville, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of adventure, learning, and personal growth. With its diverse range of activities, dedicated staff, and commitment to safety, the camp provides an enriching environment where children can explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. The structured programs cater to various ages and interests, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and impactful experience.

From the moment campers arrive to the day they depart, Camp Pinnacle strives to create an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie, all while upholding the highest standards of safety and supervision. The camp’s traditions and values encourage responsibility, respect, and the pursuit of personal excellence. For parents looking for a safe, engaging, and meaningful summer camp experience for their children, Camp Pinnacle stands out as an exceptional choice.