Today started bright and early with our 7:30 a.m. wake-up bell, as campers eagerly rolled out of bed ready for another fun-filled day at camp! Those who spent the night on one of our in-camp overnights made their way back to their cabins, where they unpacked their sleeping gear, changed into fresh clothes, and got ready to join the rest of camp for breakfast.
At 8:15 a.m., everyone gathered in the Dining Hall for a delicious family-style breakfast. Campers enjoyed fresh bagels with a variety of toppings, crispy hashbrowns, fried eggs, and an assortment of fresh fruit. The family-style meals continue to be a wonderful opportunity for cabin groups to connect, share stories from the previous day, and fuel up before a busy schedule of activities.
Following breakfast, the entire camp met down at Lakeside for our morning gathering. We started with cabin roll calls before jumping into a lively round of “What’s in the Box?”, which always gets campers laughing and guessing. We also introduced a brand-new camp song, with everyone quickly joining in and learning the actions. By the end of lakeside, the song could already be heard echoing around camp!
Campers then headed off to their first and second activity periods of the day. Whether they were climbing, paddling, creating, shooting arrows, or learning new outdoor skills, every activity was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and opportunities to build confidence. With temperatures remaining very hot throughout the day, camper health and safety continued to be a top priority. Our incredible support staff made regular rounds to each activity area with refreshing popsicles and portable ice water refill stations to help everyone stay cool and hydrated. Staff also made sure campers were regularly reapplying sunscreen and bug spray while encouraging everyone to drink at least two full water bottles throughout the day.
Before lunch, campers enjoyed one of the favorite parts of the daily schedule—Hypetivity! This special free-choice period gives campers the chance to decide how they want to spend their time. Some cooled off with a swim in the lake, while others challenged friends to games of Gaga Ball or volleyball. Campers looking for a quieter activity enjoyed relaxing with arts and crafts, making colorful creations while spending time with friends from across camp.
Lunch was another camper favorite! Today’s menu featured sweet chilli chicken bites, vegetable rice, seasoned boiled carrots, juicy grapes, and our always-popular fresh salad bar. As always, cabin groups enjoyed sharing the meal together while taking a break from the busy morning before heading into the afternoon.
After lunch, campers had some well-earned downtime back in their cabins. Many used this time to rest, play cards, write letters home, organize their belongings, or simply enjoy conversations with their cabinmates before the afternoon activities began.
One of today’s biggest highlights was our Hat Ceremonies. As we wrap up Week 1, this meaningful camp tradition recognizes campers who have consistently demonstrated our 5 R’s throughout the week. During each ceremony, campers gather with their cabin groups while counselors present each deserving camper with their special camp hat. Cabinmates then take turns sharing kind words, favorite memories, and examples of how that camper has positively impacted the group. These thoughtful messages often become one of the most memorable moments of the week, celebrating not only accomplishments but also kindness, friendship, encouragement, and personal growth.
The afternoon continued with more exciting activity periods, giving campers even more opportunities to practice new skills, challenge themselves, and enjoy time outdoors with friends. At 5:30 p.m., everyone gathered for our daily fruit break, providing a refreshing snack and another chance to hydrate before the evening’s events.
Today also marked the return of our three-day backpacking campers! After spending several days exploring the backcountry, building outdoor skills, and creating unforgettable memories together, the group made one final stop before returning to camp—a well-deserved visit to Dolly’s Ice Cream Parlour for a sweet treat. Once back at camp, they unpacked their gear, enjoyed much-needed showers, and settled back into cabin life just in time for dinner.
Dinner featured one of Chef David’s delicious homemade favorites: hearty chicken pot pie served with warm biscuits and fresh zucchini. To top off the meal, campers were treated to rich brownies for dessert, which disappeared quickly!
As evening arrived, campers from Hiwassee, Tuckasegee, Jocassee, Nantahala, Chattooga, and Nolichucky headed out for their own exciting in-camp overnight adventures. Equipped with sleeping bags, flashlights, and plenty of excitement, they prepared for an evening of outdoor fun and memories under the stars.
Meanwhile, the rest of camp gathered for an unforgettable Evening Program. This session’s much-anticipated Staff vs. Wolfepack basketball game brought plenty of excitement both on and off the court. Between baskets, campers enjoyed energetic dance breaks, fresh popcorn, and fun halftime mini-games that had everyone laughing and cheering. Many campers proudly held up handmade posters they had created earlier in the day to support their favorite players, creating an electric atmosphere full of camp spirit. After an evening packed with friendly competition, impressive plays, and lots of laughs, the final winner was Wolfepack!
As the day came to a close, cabins gathered together for Evening Circles. This quiet time gave campers an opportunity to reflect on the day’s adventures, share their favorite moments, express gratitude, and prepare their backpacks for tomorrow’s activities. It was the perfect way to wind down after such a full and exciting day.
With lights out at 9:30 p.m., campers quickly settled into bed after another action-packed day filled with adventure, friendship, laughter, and new memories. As Week 1 continues to come to a close, it’s been wonderful to watch campers grow in confidence, strengthen friendships, and fully embrace the spirit of camp.
We can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!
