Parent Info
Getting Prepared
We understand that sending your child to camp can be a big step, and we want to provide you with all the information you need to help your child have a fun, safe, and memorable time at camp.
How do I get to camp?
Camp Carmel is located at 1676 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC 28657.
Because the campus is nestled in the woods and off the main road, we share a driveway with Avery Heating and Air. After turning in at Avery Heating and Air, follow the driveway past the yellow gate and up to the top of the hill.
Check-in will be at the red lodge at the end of the driveway.
What should I pack for camp?
Packing for summer camp can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. In this section, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to pack for summer camp.
What to bring?
- Bedding for a twin-size bed (sheets, blanket or sleeping bag, pillow)
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, deodorant)
- Towels for showers and swimming in the river
- Shoes (close-toed for activities and hiking, shower shoes, casual shoes)
- Clothing (layers for temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees)
- Appropriate sleepwear
- Swim clothes (girls must wear one-piece suits or plan to wear a shirt that covers their midriffs)
- Medications (in original bottles with clear instructions)
- Insect repellent
- Bible (or use community Bibles)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Water bottle
- Backpack or day bag
What not to bring?
- Snacks (restricting snacks in cabins protects us from critters)
- Electronics (cell phones, tablets, music players, etc.)
- Weapons (knives, guns, etc.)
- Alcohol or drugs (or any clothing that promotes it)
- Clothing that does not reflect Christian values (bikinis, short shorts, halter tops, etc.)
Are campers allowed to have cell phones at camp?
We believe in the importance of unplugging and being present in the moment. That's why we are proud of our phone-free policy. If your camper wishes to have their phone for the trip to and from camp, we can store cell phones securely from check-in to check-out.
How can I keep in contact with my child during camp?
We understand that being away from your child during summer camp can be difficult, but we want to encourage you to allow your child to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience. Homesickness is a common feeling for many campers, and we have found that constant communication with parents can actually worsen these feelings.
However, we understand that sometimes there may be circumstances that require communication with your child. If this is the case, please contact the camp director to arrange a time for a phone call.
What if my child gets homesick?
We understand that homesickness can be a common concern for parents and campers alike, especially during the first few days of camp. Rest assured that our staff is trained to coach campers through this adjustment period and help them overcome any feelings of homesickness.
If for any reason we notice that your child is having difficulty adjusting to camp life, we will be sure to notify you immediately. We believe that communication between parents and staff is crucial to the success of our program, and we want to work together to ensure that your child has the best possible experience at camp.
What should I expect at drop-off & pick-up?
All campers must be checked in and out at the lodge on top of the hill. The lodge is easily accessible from the main entrance of the camp.
Unless otherwise noted, drop-off time is at 3 pm on the first day of your child's session. For safety reasons, we require that parents or guardians accompany their children during the check-in process. During check-in, our staff will collect any medications, dietary needs, or other important information about your child.
Pick-up time is at 10 am on the last day of your child's session. We ask that you arrive promptly to pick up your child. If you need to make special arrangements for pick-up, please let us know in advance.
What if my camper has dietary restrictions?
We believe that healthy food is an important part of your child's experience at camp and we take pride in providing nutritious and delicious meals. If your child has any allergies or dietary needs, please let us know during the registration process so that we can make the necessary arrangements well in advance.
What if my camper has medications?
If your child has any medications that they need to take while at camp, we ask that you send them in their originally prescribed container, clearly labeled with your child's name, dosage instructions, and the name of the medication. This helps us ensure that your child is receiving the correct medication at the correct time.
Additional questions?
We want to ensure that you and your child have all the information you need to have a positive experience at camp. If you have any additional questions or concerns about coming to camp, please do not hesitate to contact our camp director.