Nestled in the serene landscapes of Caldwell, West Virginia, Camp Alleghany stands as a beacon of tradition and vibrant camp culture. Situated along the picturesque Greenbrier River, this camp offers a tranquil escape in the midst of West Virginia’s lush woodlands, providing a perfect backdrop for a variety of camp activities.

Founded in 1922, Camp Alleghany has a storied history of fostering growth and character development in young women through a structured environment of outdoor activities and personal empowerment. Over the years, it has built a legacy as one of the oldest girls-only camps in the region, deeply committed to nurturing a community where each camper feels valued and understood.

The mission of Camp Alleghany is simple yet profound: “To inspire growth through honor, loyalty, and friendship.” This philosophy is woven into every element of the camp experience, emphasizing personal development, ethical leadership, and a strong sense of community.

As a traditional girls’ camp, Alleghany specifically caters to individuals from the ages of 7 to 16. The camp offers a broad array of activities, from arts and crafts to rigorous outdoor challenges, all designed to cater to the developmental needs and interests of young girls. Through these carefully curated programs, Camp Alleghany not only ensures fun and adventure but also instills lifelong skills and friendships that extend far beyond the summer.

Programs Offered by Camp Alleghany

Camp Alleghany for Girls offers a diverse range of programs designed to engage young girls in activities that promote personal growth, teamwork, and skills development. The camp structures its offerings around varying lengths of stay and a wide array of specialty programs, ensuring there’s something that fits every camper’s interests and developmental stage.

Description of the Programs

Main Camp Programs: These are the core offerings of Camp Alleghany, providing a balanced mix of traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, and archery. These programs focus on building a solid foundation of skills and confidence in a supportive environment.
Leadership Training Programs: Aimed at older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities and specialized activities that prepare them for roles as future leaders, both at camp and in their communities.
Mini Camp: Specifically designed for younger campers, the Mini Camp serves as an introduction to the sleepaway camp experience. Activities are tailored to be more age-appropriate and nurturing to ease them into the camp lifestyle.

Length of Sessions

Mini Camp: Typically a one-week session designed as an introductory experience.
Main Camp Sessions: These sessions usually run for two weeks or three weeks, offering a deeper dive into the camp’s activities and community.
Full Summer Option: Some campers opt to stay for the entire summer, combining multiple sessions for a comprehensive experience that spans several weeks.

Specialty Programs

Arts Programs: These include a variety of creative arts workshops such as painting, pottery, and performance arts, allowing campers to explore their artistic talents in a stimulating environment.
Sports Programs: Camp Alleghany offers a range of sports activities, including tennis, archery, and team sports, promoting physical fitness and healthy competition.
Environmental Science Program: This specialty program encourages campers to engage with nature through hands-on learning experiences in environmental science and ecology, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of their natural surroundings.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Alleghany is structured to balance activity with downtime, ensuring campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

7:30 AM: Wake up and personal time
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (rotations between different sports, arts, and educational workshops)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities (continuation of morning activities or specialty workshops)
5:00 PM: Free time and preparation for dinner
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Wind down and lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This schedule is designed to maximize both learning and fun, ensuring each camper’s experience is enriching and memorable.

Accommodations in Camp Alleghany

Camp Alleghany provides a comfortable and safe environment for its campers, with accommodations thoughtfully designed to enhance the camp experience while maintaining a rustic charm.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in traditional cabins that are both cozy and spacious. These cabins are typically structured to house 8-12 campers along with 2 counselors. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and areas for campers to relax and socialize. The cabins are designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among the campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Alleghany offers a full meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the camp’s communal dining hall. The meals are prepared daily by the camp’s kitchen staff, focusing on nutritious, kid-friendly options that provide the energy needed for an active day at camp.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, Camp Alleghany is equipped to accommodate a range of dietary preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Campers or parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary needs in advance so that the kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster at Camp Alleghany is supported by modern bathroom and shower facilities that are shared among the campers of that section. These facilities are strategically located close to the cabins for easy access. They are equipped with multiple showers, sinks, and toilet stalls to accommodate the needs of all campers in the vicinity.
Maintenance and Cleanliness: The hygiene and cleanliness of the bathroom facilities are of utmost priority. The facilities are cleaned and sanitized regularly to ensure a high standard of hygiene. Camp staff also educate and encourage campers to maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness during their stay.

These accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper’s stay at Camp Alleghany is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable, allowing them to focus fully on their activities and personal growth during their time at camp.

Activities in Camp Alleghany

Camp Alleghany provides a wide array of activities that cater to a variety of interests, skills, and personal development goals. The camp’s setting along the Greenbrier River and its rich natural surroundings make it an ideal location for both traditional camp activities and special events.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking on the Greenbrier River, as well as hiking and nature exploration in the surrounding woodlands.
Sports: Campers can participate in tennis, archery, and various team sports such as volleyball and softball.
Arts and Crafts: A creative outlet is provided through activities like painting, pottery, weaving, and jewelry making.
Performing Arts: Campers have opportunities to engage in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at camp gatherings.
Skill-Based Workshops: These include environmental education, leadership training, and survival skills workshops, tailored to enhance practical knowledge and personal growth.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are important traditions that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, featuring performances, campfire stories, and a review of camp achievements.
Allegany Blue/Gray Competitions: In a tradition spanning decades, the camp is divided into two teams for friendly competition in various activities, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Theme Days: Special days such as “Pirate Day” or “Superhero Day” encourage creativity and fun, allowing campers and staff to dress up and participate in themed activities.
Campfires and Sing-Alongs: Evening gatherings around the campfire for stories, songs, and marshmallow roasting are a quintessential part of the camp experience.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in counselor-in-training programs and leadership workshops, which prepare them for roles within the camp and beyond.
Environmental Stewardship: Through guided nature walks and ecology workshops, campers learn about local flora and fauna, conservation practices, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Personal Development: Activities are designed not only for fun but also to challenge campers, helping them build resilience, self-reliance, and confidence.

Camp Alleghany’s activities and programs are carefully curated to ensure that each camper enjoys a fulfilling, enjoyable, and enriching summer, gaining skills and memories that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Alleghany

Camp Alleghany is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and professional environment for its campers. This commitment is reflected in the rigorous standards set for hiring, training, and maintaining a qualified and dedicated staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Alleghany 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 three to five campers. This allows staff to closely monitor camper safety, provide individualized instruction, and effectively manage group dynamics.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The hiring process at Camp Alleghany begins with a thorough screening of applications, focusing on candidates who have experience in childcare, education, or specific activity expertise relevant to the camp’s programs.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo extensive background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and well-being of campers.
Interviews: Candidates go through a series of interviews to assess their suitability for the role, their ability to work with children, and their fit within the camp’s culture and values.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the commencement of camp, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution.
Certifications: Staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Depending on their specific roles, additional certifications may be required, such as lifeguarding for swimming instructors or specific coaching certifications for sports activities.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training and professional development workshops to enhance their skills and address any emerging challenges.

Specialty Training

Special Needs Training: Staff who work with campers with special needs receive additional training to meet these campers’ specific requirements.
Activity-Specific Training: Instructors for specialized activities such as archery, canoeing, or arts and crafts have relevant experience and training to provide safe and educational instruction.

The combination of a rigorous hiring process, comprehensive training, and a strong emphasis on certifications ensures that Camp Alleghany’s staff are well-prepared to provide a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. This level of dedication and professionalism helps foster a supportive community where young girls can thrive both personally and socially.

Safety and Health in Camp Alleghany

Camp Alleghany prioritizes the safety and health of its campers above all else, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to handle any situation that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Comprehensive Safety Plans: Camp Alleghany has developed detailed safety protocols covering everything from daily activities to emergency responses. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards and environmental conditions.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at camp has tailored safety guidelines designed to prevent accidents and injuries. This includes the use of appropriate safety gear, proper training on equipment use, and constant supervision by qualified staff.
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 and can respond quickly and calmly in a crisis.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Alleghany is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians. The center is prepared to handle routine health care needs, minor injuries, and initial emergency care.
24/7 Availability: Medical staff are available 24/7 to address any health concerns that may arise, ensuring that all campers have access to immediate care whenever needed.
Medication Management: The health center also manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions to ensure that each child remains healthy and active during their camp stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Medical Response: In the case of a serious injury or illness, Camp Alleghany’s protocols include immediate onsite treatment and, if necessary, rapid transportation to the nearest hospital. The camp maintains relationships with local hospitals to ensure quick response times.
Communication Protocol: Parents are notified immediately in the event of any emergency affecting their child. The camp has a clear communication strategy in place for updating parents about their child’s health and safety.
Crisis Management Team: A designated crisis management team at Camp Alleghany is trained to handle various emergency situations, ensuring that the response is swift and effective. This team is also responsible for liaising with local emergency services.

Through these meticulous safety protocols, dedicated health facilities, and clear policies on emergency handling, Camp Alleghany ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their summer activities with peace of mind, knowing that their well-being is being actively safeguarded.

Cost and Registration in Camp Alleghany

Camp Alleghany offers a structured and comprehensive registration process with various payment options and financial support systems to ensure that attending camp is as accessible as possible for all families.

Cost of attendance and what it includes: Camp Alleghany offers several session options with varying costs:

Full Term (6 weeks): Approximately $8,500
First Term (3 weeks): Around $4,800
Second Term (3 weeks): Also about $4,800
Mini Camp (1 week): Roughly $1,800

These fees typically include:

Lodging in platform tents
All meals and snacks
Instructional activities and programs
Use of camp facilities and equipment
Basic health center services

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for Camp Alleghany is primarily conducted online. Prospective campers and their parents can access forms and essential information online.
Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines are usually set several months in advance of the camp start date to allow for proper planning and preparation.
Confirmation: Upon completing the registration process, families receive a confirmation email with further details about preparing for camp and what to expect.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding the financial commitment, Camp Alleghany offers structured payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fees in installments rather than a lump sum. Details and schedules for these plans are provided during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp has a clearly stated refund and cancellation policy. Typically, a portion of the camp fee is non-refundable to cover administrative costs. Refunds for cancellations due to medical reasons or family emergencies are usually handled on a case-by-case basis.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider purchasing cancellation insurance to cover potential losses in case the camper cannot attend due to unforeseen circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Alleghany offers scholarships to help offset the cost for families in need. These scholarships are typically merit-based or need-based, and the application process is separate from the registration.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the family’s financial situation. The camp encourages families to apply for aid early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

By providing detailed information on costs, flexible payment options, and supportive financial aid resources, Camp Alleghany strives to make the invaluable experience of summer camp available to as many young girls as possible.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Alleghany

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Camp Alleghany offers detailed guidance to ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the camp experience. Here’s what to know about packing, rules, and tips for a successful camp adventure.

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, pants, swimsuits, rain gear, and a warm jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for shower use, and water shoes for river activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small tote bag for carrying items to the shower.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, batteries, water bottle, hats, sunglasses.

Optional:

Stationery: Writing materials for letters home.
Camera: Disposable or digital camera (if allowed).
Books: One or two books for leisure reading.

Prohibited Items:

Electronics: Cell phones, tablets, and other gadgets are usually not allowed to ensure campers are fully engaged in the camp experience and to foster social interaction.
Valuables: Expensive jewelry or excessive amounts of money should be left at home.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To promote immersion in the camp experience, personal electronic devices are typically discouraged or prohibited. Camp Alleghany may provide guidelines on how and when limited technology use is permitted, such as cameras for photography classes.
Visitation: Visitation policies are designed to ensure the safety and security of campers. Parents are generally allowed to visit on designated days, and all visitors must check in with the camp office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Policies regarding behavior, including the handling of disputes and disciplinary actions, are clearly communicated to ensure a positive community atmosphere.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Stay Positive: Embrace new experiences and challenges. Homesickness is normal, but staying active and involved helps manage these feelings.
Be Open to Making New Friends: Camp is a great place to meet new people and build lasting friendships.

For Parents:

Communication: Know the camp’s communication policy, including how and when you can expect updates about your child.
Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like, focusing on the fun and growth opportunities. This can help alleviate any anxiety your child might have.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the upcoming adventure.

By preparing adequately, adhering to camp rules, and embracing the spirit of summer camp, both parents and campers can ensure a memorable and rewarding experience at Camp Alleghany.

Camp Alleghany in Caldwell, WV, offers more than just a summer getaway for young girls; it provides a transformative experience that nurtures growth, fosters friendships, and builds life skills in a beautiful and supportive environment. With its rich history and a deep commitment to the values of honor, loyalty, and friendship, Camp Alleghany has successfully created a unique and enriching environment that encourages young women to explore their potential, challenge themselves, and develop a strong sense of self.

The camp’s diverse programs, from outdoor adventures to arts and leadership training, are designed to cater to a variety of interests and developmental needs, ensuring that every camper finds her place and thrives. Moreover, the carefully crafted safety protocols and health facilities underscore a commitment to camper welfare, which is central to the camp’s philosophy.