Frequently Asked Questions
About Camp Sessions
Where are you located?
Camp Pinnacle is nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, just outside Flat Rock and about 30 minutes from Asheville. Our private 126-acre property includes a 15-acre spring-fed lake and wooded trails. We’re just 15 minutes from Dupont State Forest and 30 minutes from Pisgah National Forest.
What ages do you serve?
Camp Pinnacle welcomes campers who have just completed 1st–8th grade. Those finishing 9th grade may apply to join the Wolfe Pack, our consecutive three-year Leadership Program for 9th–11th graders.
What is the Wolfe Pack?
The Wolfe Pack is our three-year leadership program for 9th–11th graders. Participants enjoy all the fun of camp while developing life and leadership skills through daily workshops, mentoring younger campers, and planning their own backpacking trip. It’s designed to help teens grow in confidence, responsibility, and purpose at camp and beyond.
Are you a religious camp?
No, we don’t promote any specific religion. The values we share (through our activities, traditions, and especially our people) are ones that families from many faiths and backgrounds can connect with.
Over the years, Camp Pinnacle has become a second home to campers from a wide range of cultures, beliefs, and upbringings.
About Camp Life
What are the cabins like?
Camp Pinnacle cabins are simple, comfortable, and designed to help campers feel at home. Each cabin houses eight to ten campers with two to three counselors. Cabins have electricity, screened windows, and fans to keep them cool and airy.
What are the bathhouses like?
Bathhouses are just a short, well lit walk from cabins, like walking down the hall to the bathroom at home. Each one has separate rooms for toilets, showers, and sinks, with individual stalls and locking doors to give campers privacy and space to get ready.
Our bathhouses are cleaned multiple times a day, and counselors help younger campers stay on routine with showers and brushing teeth before bed.
What is the food like?
We know that food plays a big part in a great camp experience, so we focus on nutritious, balanced options that kids actually enjoy eating. Our menu includes camper favorites like tacos, pasta, and cookout nights, along with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients.
We make most of our food from scratch and source many ingredients locally whenever possible. Campers can grab fruit for a snack throughout the day, and popsicle breaks are a camp favorite on hot afternoons.
We can accommodate most allergies and dietary restrictions with advance notice, including vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free diets. However, we are unable to accommodate strict kosher or vegan diets.
How do you handle homesickness?
The first few days of camp can be an adjustment, and that’s okay; it’s part of learning something new. Our team keeps a close eye on how campers are settling in, offering extra check-ins, comfort, and encouragement when needed. Most kids find that once they’re busy and laughing with their cabin, camp starts to feel like home before they know it.
Can my camper call home?
We keep phone use limited so campers can stay present and fully enjoy the camp experience. Our team is always available to answer parent questions, and we’ll reach out if a camper needs extra encouragement or care.
How will I stay updated during camp?
Each day, we post photos in the Pinnacle Post (via CampInTouch) and share blog updates with highlights and camp news. You will also receive weekly updates from your child’s counselor with personal insights into cabin life and your camper’s experience. Our goal is to give you a genuine glimpse into camp life and to always be here if you need anything while your child is with us.
What about mail and care packages?
There’s nothing better than receiving a handwritten letter at camp. Parents are also welcome to email their campers, and those messages are printed and delivered daily.
Camp Pinnacle has a no-packages policy, but you may send necessary items that your camper has forgotten or left at home.
What happens if my camper gets sick or injured?
Camp Pinnacle has a full health team on site, including three registered nurses and a nursing student intern available 24/7. We also have a camp doctor on call who makes regular visits, and we partner with Blue Ridge Health in Hendersonville, NC for additional medical care if needed.
You will receive a phone call from our medical team if your camper leaves camp for medical attention, needs a prescription, or if their daily routine is significantly affected by illness or injury.
About Activities & Safety
What if my camper isn't "outdoorsy"?
Campers don’t need to arrive as outdoor experts or with prior experience — that’s what camp is for! What matters most is a willingness to spend time outside and try new things. Every day includes outdoor activities, and our counselors are great at encouraging campers to stretch just beyond their comfort zones while still feeling supported.
How do you ensure safety at camp?
At Camp Pinnacle, our three favorite words are safety, safety, safety. All staff are thoroughly trained in activity procedures, emergency response, and first aid. We are proudly accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which means we meet or exceed more than 250 national standards for health, safety, and risk management.
Practical Questions
What should my camper bring to camp?
You can click to access our 2-week and 1-week packing lists. We have a comprehensive packing list as well as packing tips and tricks in our parent portal. We provide most camping equipment and outdoor gear your camper needs at no extra cost.
How do I know if my camper is ready for camp?
You know your camper best. If they can handle a night or two away from home and manage simple routines like brushing teeth or getting dressed, they’re probably ready for camp. What matters most is their curiosity and willingness to try something new. If you have questions about readiness, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Director team to discuss more.
How does transportation to and from camp work?
Families can either drive to camp or use our airport pickup service from Asheville (AVL) or Greenville–Spartanburg (GSP). Arrival and departure times are scheduled to make drop-off and pick-up smooth and easy for everyone.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes. Families receive $100 off per sibling and we offer early bird discounts each September. You can also earn a discount by hosting a Camp Pinnacle information session in your town. Reach out to one of our directors for more information.
Can I tour camp before enrolling?
Absolutely. We love showing families around Camp Pinnacle. Tours are available year-round by appointment and include a way through our cabins, dining hall, and activity areas. Schedule a visit to see the property, meet our team, and experience what make Camp Pinnacle special.
Still have questions?
Speak with a Camp Director or Request Information to learn more.
