Nestled in the scenic surroundings of Sevierville, Tennessee, Camp Ba-Yo-Ca offers a tranquil retreat within the Great Smoky Mountains region. This beautiful location not only provides breathtaking views but also serves as a perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities that campers enjoy each summer.

Founded with a deep commitment to fostering growth and character development, Camp Ba-Yo-Ca has a rich history of offering enriching experiences to young people. Since its inception, the camp has been dedicated to creating a supportive environment where campers can learn, explore, and grow both spiritually and personally.

At the heart of Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is a mission to “build relationships, encourage discovery, and foster faith in a Christ-centered community.” This philosophy is embedded in every activity, workshop, and session held at the camp, ensuring that every camper leaves with lasting memories and a strengthened spirit.

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is an inclusive, Christian-based camp that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to different age ranges, ensuring that each camper receives age-appropriate guidance and activities that challenge and excite them.

Join us at Camp Ba-Yo-Ca for an unforgettable summer of adventure, learning, and spiritual growth in the heart of the Smoky Mountains!

Programs Offered by Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca offers a diverse array of programs tailored to meet the interests and developmental needs of its campers. Whether your child is seeking adventure, looking to make new friends, or interested in exploring new skills, Camp Ba-Yo-Ca has something special to offer.

Standard Camp Sessions

Length of Sessions: Campers can choose from one-week or two-week sessions.
Activities: These sessions include a variety of activities such as swimming, hiking, canoeing, and campfire gatherings. Each activity is designed to build teamwork and personal growth.

Specialty Programs

Arts Camp: This program focuses on creativity through crafts, music, drama, and dance. Typically lasting one week, the Arts Camp allows campers to explore their artistic talents in a supportive environment.
Sports Camp: Available as a one-week session, this program is perfect for campers who enjoy being active and learning new sports. Activities include soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more, with an emphasis on sportsmanship and healthy competition.
Science Camp: A one-week session that engages campers in hands-on science experiments, environmental education, and exploration of the natural world. This program is designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning about science.

Leadership Development Program

Length: Typically two weeks, this program is geared towards older campers who are interested in developing leadership skills that will serve them in camp and beyond.
Focus: The program includes advanced team-building exercises, leadership theory, practical leadership opportunities, and mentoring younger campers.

Typical Daily Schedule

Here’s what a typical day looks like at Camp Ba-Yo-Ca:

7:30 AM: Wake up and personal time
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (varies by program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest time/Free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program or general activities)
5:00 PM: Dinner
6:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, night hikes, talent shows)
8:00 PM: Campers begin to wind down
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is carefully structured to balance active play, learning, personal growth, and rest, ensuring that all campers have an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Accommodations in Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is well-equipped to provide a comfortable and memorable camping experience. From cozy sleeping arrangements to accommodating dining options, the camp ensures that every camper’s needs are met.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in cabins that blend rustic charm with modern conveniences. Each cabin is designed to house a specific number of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12 per cabin, to foster a close-knit group atmosphere. The cabins are grouped by age and gender to provide a safe and supportive environment.
Safety and Comfort: All cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. They are well-ventilated and include electrical lighting and outlets.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Ba-Yo-Ca offers full meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to enjoy nutritious and delicious food prepared by experienced camp chefs.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals upon request. Campers or their parents are encouraged to discuss dietary needs with the camp staff before arrival to ensure all requirements are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are divided by gender and are accessible to all campers.
Maintenance: The bathrooms and showers are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Each facility is equipped with private stalls, sinks, and shower areas to ensure privacy and comfort for all campers.

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca’s accommodations are designed to make the camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, allowing campers to focus on the fun and learning aspects of their camp experience.

Activities in Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca provides a wide range of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences. These activities are intended to build skills, foster friendships, and create unforgettable summer memories.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy swimming, canoeing, archery, and fishing in the camp’s beautiful natural settings.
Team Sports: Participate in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and other team sports that emphasize cooperation and sportsmanship.
Hiking: Explore the scenic trails of the Smoky Mountains with guided hiking expeditions suitable for various age groups and experience levels.
Crafts: Engage in creative projects like pottery, woodworking, and painting, offering campers a chance to express themselves artistically.
Nature and Science Programs: Learn about local wildlife, participate in environmental conservation projects, and engage in hands-on science activities.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings where stories are told, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted, creating a classic camp atmosphere.
End-of-Session Carnival: A festive event featuring games, treats, and fun activities, marking the culmination of each session.
Talent Shows: Campers showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, drama, or comedy, fostering a supportive environment that celebrates individual expression.
Themed Days: Special days such as “Pirate Day” or “Superhero Day” where activities are centered around a fun theme, adding an extra layer of excitement to the camp experience.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Skills: Summer camps can participate in leadership programs, helping to mentor younger campers and lead group activities.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs that teach campers about sustainability and conservation, encouraging them to take an active role in protecting the environment.
Artistic and Creative Skills: Through various arts and crafts activities, campers enhance their creativity and learn new artistic techniques.
Physical Fitness and Wellbeing: Sports and outdoor activities promote physical health, while structured downtime and reflection activities support mental and emotional well-being.

At Camp Ba-Yo-Ca, every day is an opportunity for adventure, learning, and growth. The diverse range of activities ensures that every camper can find something they love, while special events and traditions foster a sense of community and lasting friendships among campers.

The staff of Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

At Camp Ba-Yo-Ca, the safety and well-being of campers are top priorities, which is reflected in the rigorous standards upheld for staff recruitment, training, and camper supervision.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. The ratio is typically set at one staff member for every six to eight campers, depending on the age group and activity. This ensures a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for all participants.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process at Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is thorough, with a focus on selecting individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children and youth. Candidates undergo a rigorous screening process, including background checks, reference checks, and interviews.
Staff Qualifications: Staff members often come from educational or recreational backgrounds and are selected for their experience and skills in working with children. Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution. This training ensures that staff are prepared to handle a variety of situations that may arise at camp.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of campers, particularly in an environment where physical activities are common.
Specialized Training: Staff members leading specific activities such as swimming, archery, or canoeing have additional certifications pertinent to their roles. For example, lifeguards are certified through recognized authorities such as the Red Cross or the equivalent.

Continuous Professional Development

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca encourages and often sponsors further training and professional development opportunities for its staff throughout the year. This could include advanced first aid, child behavior management courses, and leadership development programs, ensuring that the staff remains at the forefront of best practices in camp leadership and safety.

The commitment to a highly trained and dedicated staff reflects Camp Ba-Yo-Ca’s dedication to providing a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for every child.

Safety and Health in Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is deeply committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all campers and staff. The camp has comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities in place to ensure that everyone enjoys their time without concern.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Ba-Yo-Ca conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuations, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Gear and Rules: For activities that require additional safety measures, such as swimming or archery, specific gear and stringent guidelines are enforced. For instance, life jackets are mandatory for water activities, and archery ranges have strict supervision and controlled access.
Evening Check-Ins: Each night, staff perform check-ins to ensure all campers are accounted for and to address any issues or concerns that may have arisen during the day.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp boasts a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses who are on duty 24/7. This center is prepared to handle a range of medical issues from minor injuries to more serious health concerns.
Medication Management: The health center staff also manages and administers medications for campers, as per the guidelines provided by parents and guardians upon registration.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Ba-Yo-Ca has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in various scenarios, including injuries, severe weather, and other urgent situations. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly to adapt to new safety standards and practices.
Communication with Families: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a protocol for promptly communicating with the families of affected campers. This ensures that parents are kept informed and can contribute to decision-making when necessary.
Coordination with Local Authorities: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, such as the fire department, police, and hospitals. This coordination ensures a quick response and additional support during serious emergencies.

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca’s proactive approach to safety and health not only complies with all regulatory requirements but also goes above and beyond to create a secure and caring environment where campers can focus on fun and learning.

Cost and Registration in Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca is committed to providing an enriching camp experience at a reasonable cost, along with flexible registration and payment options to accommodate families’ needs.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Ba-Yo-Ca varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. Generally, one-week sessions cost between $250 to $400, while two-week sessions range from $500 to $800.
What’s Included: The fees cover all camp activities, lodging, meals, and any special events or equipment needed for programs. There may be additional nominal fees for certain specialty activities or optional excursions.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for camp sessions can be completed online. The process includes filling out camper details, selecting the desired session, and submitting health and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until sessions are full. Early registration is encouraged as spots fill quickly, especially for popular sessions.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To assist families in managing the cost of camp, Camp Ba-Yo-Ca offers structured payment plans that allow for monthly payments leading up to the session start date.
Refunds and Cancellations: In the event that a family needs to cancel a registration, a full or partial refund is available depending on the timing of the cancellation. Cancellations made more than one month before the start of the session typically receive a full refund minus a processing fee. As the camp date approaches, the refund amount decreases.
Cancellation due to Camp: If Camp Ba-Yo-Ca cancels a session for any reason (such as extreme weather events), full refunds are issued to all registered participants.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Camp Ba-Yo-Ca offers scholarships and financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Application Process: Interested families must fill out a financial aid application and provide documentation to support their financial status. The application is reviewed confidentially, and awards are made based on available funding and the number of applicants.
Additional Support: The camp also engages in fundraising activities throughout the year to increase the scholarship funds available, ensuring that as many children as possible can experience camp regardless of their financial situation.

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca strives to make its camp experience accessible and affordable, with a transparent and flexible payment system and substantial support for families needing financial assistance.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Ba-Yo-Ca

Ensuring that campers and their parents are well-prepared for the camp experience is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable summer. Camp Ba-Yo-Ca provides detailed guidelines on what to pack, rules to follow, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the session including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, swimsuits, pajamas, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the bed type), and a pillow.
Toiletries: Include soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, hats, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if parents and campers agree on limited technology use).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Ba-Yo-Ca encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage more fully with their surroundings and each other. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed or are collected and stored safely upon arrival.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit during designated visiting days, which are usually scheduled during longer sessions. Outside of these times, visits are discouraged to help campers stay focused on their camp experience.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s code of conduct, which includes respecting others, participating in scheduled activities, and adhering to safety guidelines.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Preparation: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities for making new friends. Address any anxieties and ensure the camper feels prepared and positive about going.
Communication: Set expectations about communication during camp. Camp Ba-Yo-Ca may allow letters or emails, and setting up a schedule for writing can help campers stay connected with their families.
Emotional Preparation: Especially for younger campers, consider sending them a personal item from home, like a favorite stuffed animal or a family photo, to provide comfort and a sense of security.

With thorough preparation and clear expectations, both first-time and returning campers can look forward to a fantastic experience at Camp Ba-Yo-Ca, filled with fun, learning, and growth.

Camp Ba-Yo-Ca, nestled in the beautiful landscape of Sevierville, Tennessee, offers a perfect blend of adventure, learning, and spiritual growth. With its diverse array of programs, comprehensive safety measures, and dedicated staff, the camp provides an enriching environment where children and teens can thrive. Whether engaging in exciting outdoor activities, exploring creative interests, or developing leadership skills, campers leave with lasting memories and strengthened character.

The camp’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility ensures that every family can consider sending their children to Camp Ba-Yo-Ca, regardless of financial constraints, thanks to available scholarships and thoughtful payment plans. Furthermore, the detailed preparatory information and supportive atmosphere help first-time campers and their parents feel comfortable and well-prepared for the camp experience.