There really is nothing like camp. For generations, the laughter, friendship and memories made at summer camps in Asheville, Western North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains have sparked lifelong connections to this special part of the world. The 1995 summer camp classic Heavyweights was filmed in this region, and soon, the Blue Ridge Mountains will once again play backdrop in Summer Camp featuring Diane Keaton, Kathy Bates and Alfre Woodard, which filmed here last year and was released May 31, 2024.
From ziplines, bike rides, ropes courses and the infamous "blob" to personal growth and exploration, the camps in and around Asheville capture the essence of adventure, community and natural splendor that defines the quintessential summer camp experience. As kids embark on weeks filled with new friendships and self-discovery, parents find themselves with the perfect opportunity to indulge in their own creativity and fun in Asheville. With plenty of live music, expressive art galleries, acclaimed restaurants and tucked-away bars, trails and drives, Asheville is an ideal base camp for adults looking to recharge post-drop-off or pre-pick-up.
If you're looking for a safe and enriching environment where your camper can thrive, consider signing up for one of these overnight camps.
CO-ED CAMPS
Camp Cedar Cliff
At Camp Cedar Cliff, located five miles east of downtown Asheville, the belief is that healthy, outdoor activities teach valuable life skills. This overnight, Christian-based camp builds a close-knit community through engaging activities and fellowship. Campers will enjoy the new 60-foot climbing wall, plenty of horse-back riding trails and endless outdoor space.
Lutheridge
Located in Arden, just south of downtown Asheville, is Christian-based Lutheridge: a camp made for kids of all ages that prides itself on engaging activities like swimming, crafts, games and worship-based campfires. Your camper will end this adventure-filled week with new self-confidence and problem-solving skills.
Forest Floor
This camp is for the outdoor-enthusiast-to-be. Check out the teen overnight camp for ages 12-17 that consists of six days and five nights of epic adventure. The camp dives into tracking, teamwork, survival, tool creation, stealth and awesome night games. Forest Floor uses a nature-connection mentoring approach, which uses children’s inherent enthusiasm for the natural world as a way to engage them in learning.
Montreat Youth Conference
Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, the Montreat Youth Conference offers different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath.
Windy Gap Camp
Get ready for one of the best weeks of your life! At Windy Gap Camp, spend your days horseback riding or on a mountain bike, take a dip in the pool, drive go-karts or play archery tag with your new camp friend. Check out the high ropes course of play endless games of basketball in the gym. The world is your oyster at Windy Gap.
CAMPS FOR GIRLS
Camp Merri-Mac
For the last 70 years, Camp Merri-Mac has created a legacy of friendship and community for the campers who have attended this Christian summer camp for girls (the sister camp of Camp Timberlake). Camp Merri-Mac provides a nurturing environment for campers to try new things while meeting friends that will last a lifetime. Leave their cell phones at home and watch your camper soar to new heights with confidence that can only come from time away at camp.
Camp Crestridge for Girls
A two-week adventure at the girls-only, Christian-based Camp Crestridge offers an unforgettable summer experience in the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This camp challenges campers to become strong leaders through exciting activities like a ropes course, hiking, outdoor cooking, and of course, the famous Blob.
CAMPS FOR BOYS
Camp Timberlake
Summer is meant for unforgettable memories and personal growth. Camp Timberlake is a perfect backdrop for both, as adventure comes alive in the Blue Ridge Mountains outside of Asheville. This Christian summer camp for boys opens up a world of creativity and fun while helping to strengthen their character mentally, physically and spiritually. Learn to kayak or play guitar, but whatever adventure they choose, your camper will never want to leave.
Camp Rockmont
Since opening its doors in 1956, Christian-based Camp Rockmont has been a staple of the Western North Carolina camp experience for a generation of boys looking for adventure and fellowship in the backdrop of beautiful Black Mountain on over 550 acres of secluded land that includes a 20-acre private lake. Camp Rockmont promotes not only fun and friendship but focuses on growth in self-confidence, independence and leadership for its campers.
Camp Ridgecrest
Camp Ridgecrest offers non-stop activities for the active boy, whether its mountain biking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, canoeing in a crystal-clear lake, using the side-by-side zipline or playing sports, this Christian-based camp truly has it all.
FAMILY CAMPS
YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly Family Camp
Camp doesn’t just have to be about the kids! This camp is a getaway for the whole family, and offers an easy, affordable way for families to get outside and enjoy the breathtaking mountain environment. Close to both Asheville and Black Mountain, this camp gives the option for as much or little guided programming as you’d like including hiking, archery, wacky games and family bonfires.
Christmount Family Camp
Come experience summer camp as a family at Christmount while creating special memories over games, crafts and s’mores! This camp, located in Black Mountain, offers over 600 acres of woods, streams, trails and outdoor chapels to discover. Christmount also offers summer camp programs for special needs adults.
