Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Clover, South Carolina, Camp Cherokee stands as a beacon of adventure and learning in the Southeastern United States. Surrounded by lush forests and located near notable landmarks like Lake Wylie and the Kings Mountain State Park, this camp provides an ideal setting for youth to explore nature and discover their potential.

Established with the vision of fostering a love for the outdoors and promoting personal growth, Camp Cherokee has a rich history of enriching young lives through structured activities and guided exploration. The camp’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that outdoor experiences contribute to the holistic development of children and teenagers, helping them to become confident, responsible, and environmentally conscious individuals.

Camp Cherokee is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. It offers a range of programs specifically tailored to cater to the developmental needs of children from 7 to 17 years old, ensuring a nurturing and inclusive environment where every camper can thrive. Whether it’s hiking, canoeing, or arts and crafts, Camp Cherokee provides a diverse array of activities that challenge and engage young minds, fostering a community spirit and a love for lifelong learning.

Programs Offered by Camp Cherokee

Camp Cherokee in Clover, SC, offers a variety of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children and teenagers from ages 7 to 17. Each program is structured to provide engaging, educational, and entertaining experiences, ensuring that every camper leaves with lasting memories and new skills.

Description of Programs

Explorer Program: Aimed at the youngest campers (ages 7-10), this program focuses on introductory outdoor activities like short hikes, nature walks, and basic camping skills. The goal is to ignite a passion for the outdoors in a fun and safe environment.
Adventurer Program: For campers aged 11-14, this program ramps up the challenges with longer hikes, advanced camping skills, and introductory survival skills workshops. It’s designed to build confidence and resilience.
Leadership Development Program: Targeted at older campers (ages 15-17), this program emphasizes teamwork, leadership skills, and community service projects. Participants engage in more complex activities, including overnight backpacking trips and leadership workshops.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions provide a brief yet immersive experience of camp life.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions offer a more in-depth exploration of the camp’s offerings, allowing for deeper engagement in activities and personal development.
Full Summer Option: For the ultimate Camp Cherokee experience, campers can enroll in multiple sessions throughout the summer, enjoying a progressive curriculum that builds on previous skills and experiences.

Specialty Programs

Arts Program: This creative program includes activities like pottery, painting, and drama, encouraging campers to express themselves artistically while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Sports Program: Focused on physical fitness and teamwork, this program offers sports like soccer, basketball, archery, and water sports, tailored to suit all skill levels.
Science Program: Designed for inquisitive minds, this program covers environmental science, astronomy, and wildlife biology, making learning both fun and engaging through hands-on activities.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activity session (rotating through the chosen specialty program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activity session
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Each day at Camp Cherokee is thoughtfully planned to balance physical activities, learning opportunities, and ample time for rest and socialization, ensuring that each camper has a holistic and enriching camp experience.

Accommodations in Camp Cherokee

Camp Cherokee provides a range of accommodations designed to ensure comfort and safety while maintaining the rustic charm of camping. From sleeping arrangements to dining options, the camp is equipped to meet the needs of all campers, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation for campers at Camp Cherokee consists of well-built cabins that house 8-10 campers each along with at least one counselor. These cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Each cabin is also fitted with electricity, lighting, and fans or heaters to address weather conditions.
Tents: For specific programs or activities, such as the Leadership Development Program, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, particularly during special overnight hikes and exploration activities.
Dorms: Older campers participating in leadership or extended stay programs may be housed in dorm-style accommodations that offer a bit more privacy and space, with rooms shared by fewer campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Cherokee serves three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers and staff eat together, fostering a community atmosphere.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, the camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options upon request. Parents are encouraged to discuss any specific dietary requirements with camp staff prior to arrival to ensure all needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern, centralized bathroom and shower facilities. These facilities are separated by gender and are located a short walk from the cabins. They are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to ensure privacy and minimal waiting times.
Sanitation: The camp prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene, with facilities cleaned multiple times a day by dedicated staff. Sanitation stations with hand sanitizer and hand-washing stations are also available throughout the camp, especially in high-traffic areas like the dining hall and activity centers.

Overall, Camp Cherokee strives to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable camping experience, blending the beauty of the great outdoors with the comforts of modern facilities. Whether sleeping in a cozy cabin, enjoying nutritious meals catered to various dietary needs, or using clean and accessible bathroom facilities, campers can feel at home at Camp Cherokee.

Activities in Camp Cherokee

Camp Cherokee in Clover, SC, offers a wide array of activities that cater to a variety of interests and skill levels. These activities are designed to encourage physical activity, foster creativity, and promote personal growth and teamwork among campers.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can engage in classic camping activities such as hiking, canoeing, fishing, and archery. Each activity is guided by experienced staff to ensure safety and fun.
Water Sports: With proximity to Lake Wylie, water-based activities are a highlight at Camp Cherokee. Swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding are popular among campers of all ages.
Creative Arts: For those who enjoy expressing themselves creatively, the camp offers arts and crafts sessions including pottery, painting, and woodworking.
Sports: A variety of sports activities are available, such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Nature and Science Programs: These programs allow campers to explore environmental science, astronomy, and wildlife biology through hands-on activities and explorations.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Campfire: A tradition at Camp Cherokee, the opening night campfire welcomes all campers with songs, skits, and introductions, setting the tone for the session.
End-of-Session Talent Show: Campers get a chance to showcase their talents to their peers and counselors in a supportive and fun environment.
Theme Days: These are special days where activities are centered around a particular theme, such as “Pirate Day” or “Space Exploration Day,” adding a unique and exciting twist to the regular schedule.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through specialized programs that include team-building exercises and peer mentoring.
Environmental Stewardship: Through guided nature walks and conservation projects, campers learn about environmental responsibility and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Personal Growth: Activities are designed to challenge campers and push them out of their comfort zones in safe and supportive ways, helping them to grow confidence and self-reliance.

Camp Cherokee not only provides a fun-filled environment but also focuses on developing valuable life skills. Through a diverse range of activities and special events, campers leave with not just memories but also skills and experiences that contribute to their personal and social development.

The staff of Camp Cherokee

Camp Cherokee prides itself on a highly qualified and dedicated staff team that ensures a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. The camp maintains strict standards for hiring and training its staff, focusing on qualifications, experience, and the ability to positively impact the campers’ experience.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Camp Cherokee maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives adequate attention and supervision.
Specific Programs: For certain high-risk activities such as swimming and other water sports, the ratio is even lower to enhance safety and provide more focused supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff members are typically recruited from a pool of former campers, educators, and experienced outdoor professionals. The hiring process includes a thorough review of each applicant’s background, including their experience in childcare, education, or relevant fields.
Interviews and Background Checks: Potential staff members undergo a rigorous interview process, which includes multiple rounds of interviews and comprehensive background checks to ensure safety and suitability for working with children.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first responder, are required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in an intensive pre-camp training session. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and specific training for the activities they will be leading.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the camp season, staff members participate in ongoing training and professional development sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any new challenges or updates in camp protocols.

Specialized Skills Training

Activity-Specific Training: Staff members leading specialized activities such as archery or canoeing receive additional, specific training to ensure they are well-equipped to teach and supervise these activities safely.
Behavioral Management: Training also includes sessions on behavior management and inclusive practices to ensure that all campers feel safe, respected, and included regardless of their background or abilities.

The commitment to a highly trained and qualified staff ensures that Camp Cherokee remains a safe and rewarding environment for all campers, where they can explore new activities, forge friendships, and grow both personally and socially.

Safety and Health in Camp Cherokee

Camp Cherokee is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff. The camp implements robust safety protocols and maintains excellent health facilities, which are integral to its operation and philosophy.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity at the camp has tailored safety protocols. For example, water sports require life jackets and are supervised by certified lifeguards, while adventure activities like hiking have strict guidelines about group size and trail selection.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used in camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards. This includes sports gear, boats, and any tools used in crafts or construction activities.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Cherokee has a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including registered nurses. The health center is prepared to handle routine healthcare needs and minor emergencies.
Medical Staff Availability: The medical staff is available 24/7, with protocols in place to handle any incidents that might occur. All health concerns are taken seriously, with appropriate documentation and follow-up.
Medication Management: The camp’s health center manages and dispenses all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring that campers receive their medications on time and in the correct dosages.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has comprehensive emergency action plans for a variety of scenarios, including severe weather, medical emergencies, and other unexpected incidents.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are clear communication protocols to notify staff, campers, and, if necessary, parents and local authorities. The camp maintains multiple forms of communication, including radios and emergency contact systems, to ensure reliability.
Training and Preparedness: All staff undergo specific training on how to handle emergencies, focusing on immediate actions, communication, and the use of the camp’s resources to secure the safety of all individuals.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: Camp Cherokee collaborates closely with local emergency services to ensure a quick and effective response to any serious incidents. This partnership includes regular updates and joint training sessions when possible.

Camp Cherokee’s thorough approach to safety and health reflects its commitment to providing a secure and caring environment where campers can enjoy their activities without unnecessary risks, ensuring peace of mind for both campers and their families.

Cost and Registration in Camp Cherokee

Camp Cherokee strives to provide a transformative camping experience while ensuring affordability and accessibility for families. Below is an overview of the cost structure, registration process, and financial support options available at the camp.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Cherokee varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. Typically, one-week sessions cost approximately $500, two-week sessions are around $950, and full summer options can range up to $2800.
What It Includes: The fees cover all basic costs associated with the camp, including lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and program materials. There are no additional mandatory costs, but optional extras like camp merchandise or special excursions may incur additional charges.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their children for camp through an online registration portal available at the camps. This platform allows parents to fill out necessary forms, choose session dates, and select specific programs.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as some sessions and programs fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on the camp’s registration page.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of camp can be significant, Camp Cherokee offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in installments, spreading the cost over several months leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp provides a tiered refund policy. Full refunds (minus a registration fee) are available up to a month before the session starts. Half refunds are offered up to two weeks before the session. No refunds are available less than two weeks before the session unless the cancellation is due to medical reasons, supported by a doctor’s note.
Cancellation Insurance: Families have the option to purchase cancellation insurance at the time of registration which allows for a full refund up until the day before camp begins, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Cherokee offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover part or all of the cost of attending the camp.
Financial Aid: Financial aid applications are available during the registration process and are awarded based on demonstrated financial need. The camp encourages families to apply early as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Cherokee is committed to making the camping experience accessible to as many children as possible, offering several options to assist with the costs of attendance. The camp’s administration is dedicated to providing transparency and support throughout the registration and payment processes, ensuring that families can plan effectively and enjoy a stress-free preparation for camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Cherokee

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Camp Cherokee provides detailed guidance to ensure that all families feel prepared and informed about what to expect. Here’s how parents and campers can best prepare for their adventure at Camp Cherokee.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, swimwear, and a jacket. Include a raincoat and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking and water activities.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, along with a pillow, for use in the cabins or dorms.
Toiletries: Include personal hygiene items like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and a towel. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also essential.
Gear: A flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, and daypack are necessary for daily activities and excursions.
Optional Items: Cameras (non-smartphone), books, and stationery can be brought for leisure time.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Cherokee encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged and, if brought, will be collected and stored safely upon arrival.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated visiting days which are usually scheduled midway through longer sessions. Outside of these times, visits can disrupt the camp program and are generally not allowed.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to the camp’s code of conduct which promotes respect, inclusivity, and cooperation. Bullying, disruptive behavior, and possession of prohibited items (like weapons or drugs) are grounds for dismissal from the camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage in Pre-Camp Meetups: If possible, attend any orientation sessions or meetups offered by the camp to get familiar with the camp environment and some fellow campers beforehand.
- Practice Independence: Practice doing chores and managing personal belongings at home to smooth the transition to camp life.
- Stay Positive: Embrace the new experiences and challenges that camp offers. It’s normal to feel homesick, but staying active and involved can help alleviate these feelings.
For Parents:
- Communicate Openly: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made. Address any anxieties your child may express with positive reinforcement.
- Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process using the camp’s packing list as a guide. This can help them feel more prepared and in control.
- Set Expectations for Communication: Explain the camp’s communication policies, including how often you will be able to speak with them during their time at camp.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, parents and campers can ensure that the camp experience at Camp Cherokee is enjoyable, safe, and rewarding for everyone involved.

Camp Cherokee in Clover, SC, stands out as an exemplary summer camp that combines the thrill of outdoor adventure with the nurturing of personal growth and community spirit. With its diverse range of programs, from water sports and creative arts to leadership training and environmental stewardship, Camp Cherokee caters to a wide array of interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds something to inspire and challenge them.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and well-rounded education is evident in its meticulous safety protocols, professional medical staff, and comprehensive camper support systems. The facilities and staff are geared towards creating an environment that is not only fun but also safe and conducive to learning and personal development.