Welcome to Appalachian Christian Camp, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Unicoi, Tennessee. This camp, situated in the scenic Appalachian region, offers a serene backdrop ideal for spiritual growth and adventure. Since its inception, Appalachian Christian Camp has been committed to fostering a nurturing environment where youth can explore their faith and create lasting friendships.

Located near significant landmarks such as the Nolichucky River and the lush expanses of Cherokee National Forest, the camp provides an idyllic setting for a wide range of outdoor activities and introspective moments alike.

With a mission rooted in guiding young people to experience God through nature and fellowship, the camp aims to inspire and nurture Christian values in a welcoming, inclusive environment. This mission is complemented by a strong philosophy of community, adventure, and spiritual development, designed to empower campers in their faith journey.

Appalachian Christian Camp is a summer destination that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. Through a mix of fun, education, and spiritual guidance, it provides a balanced experience that caters to the needs of young people at different stages of their growth and development. Here, every camper is valued and encouraged to discover their potential in a supportive Christian community.

Programs Offered by Appalachian Christian Camp

Appalachian Christian Camp offers a variety of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a rich and fulfilling summer experience for all campers. Here’s a closer look at the diverse offerings available:

1. General Camp Programs

Description: These programs provide a comprehensive camp experience, blending spiritual development with recreational activities. Campers engage in daily devotions, group worship, and Bible study, alongside traditional camp activities such as hiking, swimming, and crafts.
Length of Sessions: Typically one to two weeks.
Specialty Areas: Focus on outdoor activities and spiritual growth.

2. Adventure Camps

Description: Tailored for thrill-seekers, these camps emphasize outdoor adventures. Activities include rock climbing, white-water rafting, and wilderness survival skills, all framed within a Christian context.
Length of Sessions: Usually one week.
Specialty Areas: Extreme sports and adventure.

3. Creative Arts Camps

Description: Ideal for those inclined towards creativity, these sessions focus on arts and crafts, music, drama, and dance. Campers have opportunities to showcase their talents through performances and exhibitions.
Length of Sessions: Ranges from one week to ten days.
Specialty Areas: Arts including visual arts, performing arts, and music.

4. Sports Camps

Description: Focused on physical fitness and sportsmanship, these camps offer specialized coaching in sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball. The emphasis is on skill development, teamwork, and incorporating Christian principles into sports.
Length of Sessions: One to two weeks.
Specialty Areas: Various sports disciplines.

5. Leadership Development Programs

Description: Designed for older campers, these programs aim to develop leadership skills through workshops, team-building activities, and hands-on leadership roles within the camp.
Length of Sessions: Two to three weeks.
Specialty Areas: Leadership training and personal development.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Wake-up Call
- Morning Devotion
- Breakfast
- Activity Session 1 (e.g., Arts, Sports)
Midday:
- Lunch
- Rest Time/Free Time
- Activity Session 2 (e.g., Adventure Activities)
Afternoon:
- Workshop or Bible Study
- Snack Time
- Free Time or Elective Activities
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening Worship or Campfire
- Night Games
- Lights Out

Each day at Appalachian Christian Camp is structured to balance activity with ample time for reflection and fellowship, ensuring that each camper leaves with not just new skills, but also deeper spiritual insights and lasting friendships.

Accommodations in Appalachian Christian Camp

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary sleeping accommodation at Appalachian Christian Camp is cabins, designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among campers. These cabins are rustic yet comfortable, equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Each cabin houses a specific age group, ensuring that campers are with peers of similar age and interests.
Tents: For certain adventure programs, there might be opportunities for campers to experience tent camping, particularly during specific outdoor excursions. This allows campers to fully engage with the natural environment around them.
Dorms: Older campers or those participating in specific leadership programs may be housed in dorm-style accommodations, which provide a bit more privacy and are equipped with facilities like small lounges for group discussions and socializing.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: The camp offers full meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, designed to be hearty and nutritious to support an active lifestyle. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp kitchen is prepared to accommodate special dietary requirements such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or allergy-specific meals. Campers or their guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary restrictions well in advance to ensure proper arrangements are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are typically centralized in each cabin area, separate from the sleeping quarters but within easy walking distance. These facilities are gender-segregated and are maintained with high standards of cleanliness.
Private Facilities: In dorm accommodations, bathrooms, and showers may be more integrated, providing slightly more privacy compared to the cabin setups. These are also regularly cleaned and stocked with basic necessities like soap and toilet paper.

Overall, the accommodations at Appalachian Christian Camp are designed to ensure that campers are safe, comfortable, and well-cared for throughout their stay, allowing them to focus fully on their camp experience and spiritual growth.

Activities in Appalachian Christian Camp

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: The camp’s location in the Appalachian region makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and canoeing. These activities not only offer fun and excitement but also allow campers to appreciate the beauty of nature.
Water Activities: Swimming in the camp’s lake, canoeing, and rafting are popular activities, especially during the warm summer months.
Crafts and Creative Arts: Summer camps can engage in various arts and crafts sessions, including pottery, painting, and woodworking, providing a creative outlet and a chance to develop artistic skills.
Sports: A range of sports activities are available, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Spiritual Development: Daily devotionals, Bible studies, and worship sessions are integral parts of the camp experience, designed to deepen the campers’ faith and spiritual understanding.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Evening campfires are a cherished tradition, featuring singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and fellowship.
End-of-Camp Celebration: The camp concludes with a celebration that includes performances, a showcase of campers’ crafts, and an awards ceremony to recognize achievements and milestones reached during the camp session.
Theme Days: Special theme days or weeks, such as “Pioneer Days” or “International Week,” encourage campers to dress up and participate in themed activities, promoting learning and fun.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership development programs, where they learn essential leadership skills such as conflict resolution, team management, and effective communication.
Environmental Education: Through guided nature walks and conservation projects, campers learn about local flora and fauna, ecological balance, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops on topics such as teamwork, self-esteem, and resilience are offered, aimed at helping campers develop personal skills that are valuable both inside and outside the camp environment.

Appalachian Christian Camp offers a dynamic range of activities and special events designed to engage campers in meaningful experiences, enhance their skills, and build lasting memories, all within a supportive Christian community.

The staff of Appalachian Christian Camp

Staff-to-Camper Ratio Appalachian Christian Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every five to eight campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively oversee and engage with campers in all activities, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process for camp staff is thorough, involving multiple interviews and background checks to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers. Potential staff members must demonstrate a strong commitment to Christian values and a genuine interest in working with children.
Qualifications: Staff members often include college students, teachers, and young adults with experience in education, youth ministry, or recreational leadership. Specialized roles, such as those involving adventure sports or arts, require staff with specific skills and experience in those areas.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of camp, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution. This training ensures that all staff are well-prepared to handle a variety of situations that may arise during camp.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff involved in specific activities such as swimming, rock climbing, or other potentially higher-risk activities have relevant certifications and training specific to those areas (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Continuous Education: The camp encourages and sometimes sponsors further development for staff, such as advanced safety courses, leadership workshops, and seminars on the latest in child development and pastoral care.

The staff at Appalachian Christian Camp are not just caretakers but mentors and role models for campers, embodying the camp’s values and philosophy. Their professional qualifications, combined with a robust training regimen, ensure that they are equipped to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable camp experience for all participants.

Safety and Health in Appalachian Christian Camp

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Preventative Measures: The camp implements strict safety protocols that start with preventative measures to ensure a safe environment. This includes safety briefings for all campers and staff, regular inspections of equipment and facilities, and clear guidelines on behavior and procedures.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of tailored safety protocols. For example, water activities require life jackets and are always supervised by certified lifeguards, while adventure sports like rock climbing involve safety harnesses and trained instructors.
Regular Drills: Emergency drills such as fire, weather, and lockdown procedures are conducted regularly to ensure that both staff and campers are familiar with what to do in various scenarios.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Appalachian Christian Camp maintains an on-site health center staffed with qualified healthcare professionals such as nurses or paramedics. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Access to Medical Services: For more serious medical issues, the camp has arrangements with nearby medical facilities to ensure quick and efficient transport and treatment. The health staff also maintains records of all campers’ medical histories and specific health needs to provide personalized care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place, which includes protocols for evacuation, communication, and coordination with local emergency services. This plan is reviewed and updated annually to reflect any new safety standards or changes in local infrastructure.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a clear communication policy to inform parents or guardians as quickly and efficiently as possible. This includes initial notifications, updates, and post-incident reports.
Training for Staff: All camp staff participate in training sessions on emergency response and crisis management. This training ensures that every staff member knows their role during an emergency and can assist effectively and calmly.

The commitment to safety and health at Appalachian Christian Camp is fundamental to its operation. By maintaining strict safety protocols, having a well-equipped health center on-site, and ensuring all staff are trained in emergency procedures, the camp ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without compromising their well-being.

Cost and Registration in Appalachian Christian Camp

Cost of Attendance

Inclusions: The cost of attendance at Appalachian Christian Camp typically covers all lodging, meals, activities, and supplies needed for the duration of the camp session. This includes access to all facilities, instructional sessions, and special events.
Fees: The fees can vary depending on the length of the session, the type of program, and any additional offerings such as specialized equipment or expeditions. Prices are generally set to be as inclusive as possible to ensure that campers have everything they need without additional charges.

Prices typically range from $465 – $490.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for camp sessions is typically handled online. This platform allows parents and guardians to fill out necessary forms, select sessions, and submit medical information securely.
Deadlines: It’s important to note that spots in the camp can fill up quickly, so early registration is encouraged. Specific deadlines for registration are usually set a few months before the start of the session to allow for proper planning and staffing.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers various payment plans to help families manage the cost of attendance. These can include installment payments spread out over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: Refund policies are typically structured to offer partial refunds up to a certain date before the camp begins, with the refund amount decreasing as the start date approaches. Complete details are provided during registration.
Cancellation Policies: In case of cancellation by the camp, such as due to unforeseen circumstances or safety concerns, full refunds are generally provided. If a camper needs to cancel for personal reasons, the ability to obtain a refund will depend on the timing of the cancellation relative to the start date.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Appalachian Christian Camp offers scholarships to help make camp accessible to as many children as possible. These are often need-based and can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through sponsorships or fundraising events organized by the camp or associated community groups. Parents are encouraged to apply early for financial aid, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Appalachian Christian Camp strives to make its enriching camp experience accessible and affordable. With various financial supports in place, the camp works to ensure that no child misses out on the opportunity due to cost.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Appalachian Christian Camp

Packing List To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the session including comfortable clothing for daily activities, a jacket or sweatshirt for cooler evenings, swimwear, and a set of nicer clothes for any special camp events.
Footwear: Include sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for casual wear, and water shoes if participating in water activities.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring a sleeping bag or bedding for a twin bed, pillow, towels, and personal toiletries.
Miscellaneous Items: Flashlight, bug repellent, sunscreen, water bottle, and a hat for sun protection.
Optional Items: Musical instruments, sports equipment, or any specific items related to themed activities or special camp events.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and ensure all campers are present at the moment, the use of personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops is typically restricted or prohibited except during specified times.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and staff, visitation is usually limited to designated visiting days. Parents are encouraged to adhere to these times and check with the camp on their specific policies.
Behavior: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate in scheduled activities. Policies on bullying, respect for property, and personal interactions are clearly communicated during the registration and orientation processes.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what the camp will be like, focusing on the fun and growth opportunities. Understanding the daily schedule and activities can help ease any anxiety.
Homesickness: It’s common for new campers to experience homesickness. Parents can help by expressing confidence in their child’s ability to overcome challenges and encouraging them to fully engage in activities.
Communication: While direct communication with campers may be limited, parents can often send letters or emails that camp staff will deliver to campers. Check with the camp on their preferred methods and timing for communication.
Trust: Trust the camp’s staff and their processes. They are experienced in taking care of campers and ensuring they have a rewarding and safe experience. If concerns arise, communicate with camp staff who are there to help.

By preparing effectively and understanding the camp’s rules and policies, parents can help ensure that their camper has a memorable and transformative experience at Appalachian Christian Camp.

Appalachian Christian Camp offers a unique and enriching experience that combines spiritual growth, adventure, and community. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Unicoi, Tennessee, it provides an ideal setting for children and teens to explore their faith, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships. The camp’s comprehensive programs cater to a variety of interests and ages, with a focus on leadership, creativity, and outdoor adventures.

With a commitment to safety, personal development, and fostering a strong Christian community, Appalachian Christian Camp ensures that each camper’s experience is not only fun but also profoundly impactful. The carefully selected staff, dedicated to nurturing and guiding campers, supports an environment where everyone can thrive and feel valued.