Welcome to Merriwood Christian Camp, nestled in the picturesque region of Clemmons, North Carolina. Located near key landmarks that capture the serene beauty of the state, Merriwood Christian Camp offers a haven for spiritual growth and outdoor adventure.

Founded on a deep-rooted commitment to Christian values, Merriwood Christian Camp has been a sanctuary for young individuals seeking to strengthen their faith and personal development through nature and community since its inception. The camp’s mission is to foster a nurturing environment that encourages spiritual growth, character development, and a lifelong passion for service, all through the teachings of Christ.

Merriwood is a Christian camp primarily serving girls from various age groups. Each program is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs and interests of each age group, ensuring that every camper receives the most enriching experience possible. Through a combination of worship, fellowship, and fun, campers leave Merriwood with lasting memories and a stronger faith.

Programs Offered by Merriwood Christian Camp

Merriwood Christian Camp offers a variety of programs designed to enrich the campers’ experience both spiritually and recreationally. Here’s a closer look at what campers can expect:

Programs and Session Lengths

Merriwood provides a range of session lengths to accommodate different family needs and preferences:

One-week sessions are perfect for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, providing a taste of what Merriwood has to offer.
Two-week sessions allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and more significant spiritual and personal growth.
Full summer options are available for those who wish to immerse themselves fully in the Merriwood experience, fostering lasting friendships and a deepened faith.

Specialty Programs

To cater to diverse interests, Merriwood offers specialty programs that include:

Arts: Campers engage in crafts, music, drama, and dance, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Sports: Activities such as soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery promote physical health and teamwork.
Science: Designed to pique curiosity, these programs involve nature walks, environmental education, and basic science experiments.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Merriwood is structured to balance activity with reflection, providing a rhythm that supports both excitement and contemplation:

Morning:
- Wake-up and personal time
- Breakfast
- Morning devotion and worship
Midday:
- Rotating sessions through specialty programs
- Lunch
- Rest period/free time
Afternoon:
- Continued specialty sessions or group activities
- Afternoon snack and free time
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening worship or campfire
- Night activities (e.g., games, storytelling)
Bedtime:
- Wind down
- Lights out

This well-rounded schedule ensures that each camper experiences a mix of learning, play, and spiritual development, all within the supportive and nurturing environment of Merriwood Christian Camp.

Accommodations in Merriwood Christian Camp

At Merriwood Christian Camp, the accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable, safe, and part of the community. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers typically stay in cabins that are both cozy and spacious enough to house small groups, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items. They are grouped by age and supervised by experienced counselors to ensure safety and provide guidance.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Merriwood Christian Camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers can gather and share their daily experiences. The dining hall is a hub of activity, offering a chance to socialize and bond over meals.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all campers, Merriwood offers options for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements prior to arrival so that the kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located near the cabins for easy access. These facilities are separated by gender and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy is a priority in the design of these facilities, with individual stalls and shower areas. Safety protocols are strictly followed, and campers are always accompanied by a counselor during designated times for younger groups to ensure safety and organization.

These accommodations at Merriwood Christian Camp are crafted to enhance the overall camping experience, providing a home away from home where campers can thrive physically, spiritually, and socially.

Activities in Merriwood Christian Camp

Merriwood Christian Camp offers a wide range of activities designed to cater to various interests and encourage skill development. Here is a breakdown of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, hiking, canoeing, and archery allow campers to explore nature and learn about the environment.
Water Sports: The camp features swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, providing fun and refreshing ways to stay active.
Crafts: From pottery and painting to jewelry making, crafts encourage creativity and allow campers to take home personal souvenirs.
Team Sports: Sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Challenge Courses: High ropes courses and climbing walls challenge campers to push their boundaries and build confidence.

Special Events or Traditions

Merriwood Christian Camp is rich in traditions and special events that highlight the camping season:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, setting the tone and wrapping up the experiences shared.
Campfires: Regular campfires offer a time for songs, stories, and reflections, deepening the sense of community.
Theme Days: Special theme days (e.g., Superhero Day, Backwards Day) add a fun and imaginative twist to the routine.
Talent Shows: These allow campers to showcase their skills and talents, fostering a supportive atmosphere for personal expression.

Skill Development Opportunities

Merriwood Christian Camp emphasizes growth in various areas:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills necessary for team management and peer mentorship.
Spiritual Growth: Daily devotions, worship services, and bible studies are integral, providing spiritual guidance and opportunities for personal reflection.
Environmental Education: Through guided nature walks and sustainability practices, campers learn about environmental stewardship.
Personal Skills: Activities are also a chance to learn practical skills, such as swimming safety, basic first aid, and survival skills in nature.

These activities and programs at Merriwood Christian Camp ensure that every camper not only has fun but also leaves with new skills, stronger faith, and cherished memories.

The staff of Merriwood Christian Camp

The staff at Merriwood Christian Camp plays a crucial role in providing a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for campers. Here’s a detailed look at the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, qualifications, and training:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Merriwood Christian Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives ample attention and supervision. Typically, the camp aims for a ratio of one staff member for every six to eight campers. This ratio helps in fostering a personal connection and providing a supportive and attentive camping experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The camp employs a thorough hiring process that includes detailed applications, interviews, and background checks. References are checked to ensure candidates are not only qualified but also have a proven track record of responsibility and a passion for working with children.
Qualifications: Staff members often come from various backgrounds, including education, child development, theology, and recreation. Many are college students pursuing related fields, or teachers and youth pastors seeking summer employment. The key qualities sought include a strong moral character, enthusiasm, leadership capabilities, and a genuine desire to work with children in a Christian setting.

Training and Certifications

General Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and effective communication with children. This training ensures that every staff member is prepared to handle both daily activities and any potential challenges.
Certifications: It is mandatory for all staff to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training for specific roles, such as lifeguard certifications for swimming activities and specialized training for high ropes or wilderness first aid, is also provided depending on the staff’s assigned responsibilities.

This rigorous approach to staffing at Merriwood Christian Camp ensures that campers are in safe hands and that their camping experience is enriching, safe, and aligned with the camp’s mission of spiritual and personal development.

Safety and Health in Merriwood Christian Camp

At Merriwood Christian Camp, the safety and health of campers and staff are top priorities. The camp is committed to providing a secure environment through stringent safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and clear policies for handling emergencies. Here’s an overview of these measures:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Daily Check-Ins: Each day begins with a health and wellness check to identify any issues that might affect a camper’s ability to participate in daily activities.
Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled safety drills ensure that campers and staff are familiar with procedures for fires, severe weather, and other potential emergencies.
Activity-Specific Protocols: For activities like swimming, archery, and high ropes courses, specific safety protocols are in place. These include equipment checks, safety briefings, and ensuring that activities are supervised by trained and certified staff.
Secure Environment: The camp is designed to be secure with controlled access points, and all visitors are required to check in and out at the administration office.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Merriwood Christian Camp has an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals such as nurses or paramedics. This center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions until emergency services arrive.
Medication Management: The health center also manages and administers medications for campers, ensuring that those with specific health needs are well cared for throughout their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed action plans for various emergencies, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards and best practices.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are protocols for communicating quickly and effectively with all camp personnel and, when necessary, parents and guardians. The camp ensures that communication lines remain open and clear during any crisis.
Training: All staff are trained not only in preventive safety measures but also in how to respond effectively in emergency situations. This includes training on how to evacuate campers, provide first aid, and coordinate with local emergency services.

These comprehensive safety and health measures underscore Merriwood Christian Camp’s commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities worry-free and parents can rest assured about their children’s well-being.

Cost and Registration in Merriwood Christian Camp

Merriwood Christian Camp offers a structured and transparent approach to costs, registration, and financial policies, ensuring that families can plan effectively and access the camp’s programs regardless of their financial situation. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost: The cost of attending Merriwood Christian Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, fees cover lodging, all meals, activities, equipment use, and program materials.
Inclusions: The fee typically includes all the primary camp experiences such as lodging in cabins, three daily meals, all scheduled activities, and any special events. There may be additional costs for optional activities or special sessions not included in the standard camp program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Registration for camp can be completed online through the camps. Families need to create an account, fill out camper information, select sessions and activities, and submit the required health and consent forms.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on the camp, and it’s important to register before these dates to secure a spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Merriwood Christian Camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans typically allow for installment payments spread over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp provides detailed refund policies which typically include a non-refundable deposit at the time of registration. Full or partial refunds (minus the deposit) may be available if cancellation occurs by a specified date before the camp starts. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only partial refunds might be offered.
Cancellations Due to Illness or Emergency: Special considerations are often made for cancellations due to illness or family emergencies, where documentation may be required for a refund.

Scholarships or Financial Aid

Availability: Merriwood Christian Camp is committed to making camp accessible for all children and offers scholarships and financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need.
Application for Financial Aid: Applications for financial aid require the submission of financial information and a statement of need. These applications are reviewed confidentially, and awards are made based on available funding and the number of applicants.

These financial guidelines and support systems ensure that Merriwood Christian Camp can welcome a diverse group of campers each year, helping families enjoy the benefits of camp regardless of their financial circumstances.

Cost:

Day Camp Fees: The cost for a day camp week (rising 1st-4th graders) is $285

Overnight Camp Fees: Prices vary depending on the age group:

Junior Weeks (rising 4th-6th graders): $425 per week
Middle School Weeks (rising 7th-9th graders): $465 per week
Teen Week (rising 10th-graduates): $495 per week

Parent and Camper Preparation in Merriwood Christian Camp

Preparing for a stay at Merriwood Christian Camp is an exciting process for both campers and their parents. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ensure that everyone is ready for a great camp experience:

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for their time at Merriwood, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the session duration, including T-shirts, shorts, jeans, and swimwear. Pack layers for cooler evenings and rainy days.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes for activities (sneakers), sandals for showers, and waterproof boots if possible.
Bedding and Towels: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, bath and beach towels.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Camera (non-digital for younger campers), books, writing materials, and a small backpack for day trips.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize the camp experience, the use of personal electronic devices (like smartphones, tablets, and laptops) is typically restricted or not allowed. This helps encourage campers to engage more fully with their surroundings and each other.
Visitation: Parents are usually encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help campers adjust to camp life and gain independence.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Rules and guidelines will be provided to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be Open to New Experiences: Camp is a great place to try new things and meet new friends. Embrace all the activities and opportunities that come your way.
- Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal. Remember that camp staff are there to help, and it often helps to talk about your feelings.
For Parents:
- Stay Informed: Make sure to read all the materials provided by the camp to understand the activities, rules, and daily schedule.
- Communicate Any Concerns: If your child has specific needs or allergies, communicate these to the camp staff before arrival to ensure they can accommodate and provide the best care.
- Encourage Independence: Prepare your child for camp by encouraging them to be more independent at home, such as packing their own bags and making decisions.

With the right preparation, both first-time and returning campers can look forward to an enriching and memorable experience at Merriwood Christian Camp.

Merriwood Christian Camp offers a unique blend of spiritual growth, community building, and fun in the tranquil setting of Clemmons, North Carolina. With a wide range of activities, dedicated staff, and a commitment to safety, the camp provides a nurturing environment where campers can explore their faith and personal interests. Whether it’s through engaging in exciting outdoor adventures, participating in arts and crafts, or exploring personal talents in a supportive atmosphere, Merriwood ensures that each camper experiences personal growth and lasting memories.

The camp’s thoughtful programs, along with its commitment to accessibility through scholarships and financial aid, make it an ideal choice for families seeking a comprehensive summer camp experience. As campers leave Merriwood, they take with them not only the joy of summer adventures but also enhanced life skills, deeper spiritual understanding, and friendships that may last a lifetime. Indeed, Merriwood Christian Camp is more than just a summer activity; it’s a community and a formative experience that impacts young lives profoundly.