Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Outdoor Summer Camps & Equestrian Programs in Old Fort, NC
Camp Grier was founded in 1952 by Robert D. Grier as an outdoor ministry of the Presbyterian Church. Our mission centers on connecting youth to nature through transformative outdoor experiences, fostering leadership, confidence, and environmental stewardship. For over seven decades, we have provided summer camps, equestrian programs, and retreats, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility for all children. Our 655-acre property in Old Fort, NC, surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, serves as a living classroom for adventure and growth. We prioritize removing barriers to outdoor access, offering scholarships and equity programs that have impacted thousands of youth since 1972. Our staff combines decades of expertise in outdoor education, equine care, and community service to create safe, engaging experiences.Rooted in values of service and sustainability, we partner with local organizations to strengthen community ties and protect natural resources. From guided trail rides to leadership workshops, every program is designed to build resilience and foster connections between people and the environment. Our commitment to unstructured outdoor play addresses modern challenges of screen dependency, ensuring future generations inherit a deep appreciation for nature. As a trusted regional institution, we blend tradition with innovation to deliver programs that inspire lifelong learning and environmental responsibility.
Services
Summer Camps
Equestrian Programs
Venue Rentals
Outdoor Education
Conservation Initiatives
Details
- Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
- We offer 70+ years of experience in outdoor youth programming and environmental education.
- Our 655-acre campus provides exclusive access to Pisgah National Forest trails and ecosystems.
- We maintain a 5:1 camper-to-staff ratio for personalized attention and safety.
- Our equestrian center features professionally maintained trails and certified instructors.
- We operate the longest-running outdoor equity program in Western North Carolina since 1972.
What people say
Great staff engagement
Beautiful natural setting
Life-changing programs
Excellent horseback riding
Strong community focus
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Our summer camps provide immersive outdoor experiences combining adventure, leadership development, and environmental education. Participants engage in hiking, team-building activities, and nature exploration while developing personal growth and social skills. Programs cater to diverse age groups with specialized tracks for leadership training and wilderness exploration.
Equestrian Center
The equestrian program offers guided trail rides, riding lessons, and seasonal camps for all skill levels. Professional instructors teach horsemanship fundamentals while exploring 600+ acres of forest trails. Facilities include a covered arena, jump courses, and boarding options for private horses.
Venue Rentals
Our campus provides unique venues for weddings, retreats, and group events with mountain vistas and rustic lodges. Rental packages include lodging accommodations for 32-40 guests in bunk-style lodges and specialized event coordination services for outdoor celebrations.
Outdoor Equity Initiatives
The Streets to Peaks program ensures equitable access to outdoor experiences through scholarships and community partnerships. Since 1972, we've provided over 100 full scholarships annually and reduced-cost programs that serve underrepresented youth populations in Western North Carolina.
Conservation Programs
Our conservation efforts protect 655 acres of forestland and waterways through sustainable land management practices. Initiatives include trail maintenance, watershed protection projects, and educational programs teaching ecological responsibility to campers and visitors.
Questions
What age groups do your summer camps serve?
Our summer camps accommodate children aged 7-17 with age-specific programs and leadership development tracks for older teens.
Are horseback riding lessons available for beginners?
Yes, we offer introductory lessons for all skill levels, including complete beginners with no prior riding experience.
Can we visit the camp before registering?
We welcome prospective visitors during our open house events and scheduled tours available throughout the year.
Do you offer financial assistance for camp attendance?
Yes, our scholarship fund provides over $150,000 annually in financial aid through the Streets to Peaks initiative.
What safety measures are in place for outdoor activities?
All activities follow strict safety protocols with trained staff, regular equipment inspections, and emergency response procedures.
Can adults participate in equestrian programs?
Our equestrian center welcomes riders of all ages with adult-focused trail rides and lesson packages available.
Reviews (4)
YourPawsR MyPaws
Dec 05, 2021
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This experience was absolutely breathtaking! The scenery on the trails are magical. The horses are all beautiful, healthy, well taken care of and extremely safe to ride. Erin introduces you to each horse even if youre not paired with that horse. She goes over everything about the horses from start to finish. Safety, directing the horse, horses background/history and their personalities. Ive been to many horseback riding locations and this one by far is one of the best. I definitely recommend this experience for all riders from guests who have never ridden to experience riders to small children
Lindsay Ann
Sep 02, 2021
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Honestly the best place on earth. I went there as a camper and couldnt let it go Because of all it has to offer. I made some life long friendships and have tons of stories to tell. I went back as a counselor and had the best summer. I appreciate all of the staff currently and in the past as well as the ones to come.
Brandon Foster
Aug 04, 2021
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While we are not campers, we have spent psalm time at Camp Grier and it has always been absolutely fabulous!
Taylor McGee
Jul 15, 2021
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We had high hopes for Camp Grier seeing as how we sent 3 children there this year. Nope, we wont do that again, Our 8, 1/2 year old was treated like a kindergartener. They have rules like Flat On your Back which means the child is to lay flat on their back daily for downtime. Which come to find is 1.5 hours a day for the younger ones and only 30 minutes for a grade apart. Some cabins are allowed out and able to mingle during this time. No reports of outdoor learning, one ten minute hike all week, no camping, One hole of frisbee golf all week before being told to return to Flat On Back
