Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Summer Camp for Girls in Western North Carolina
Camp Green Cove has been fostering personal growth and outdoor adventure for girls aged 6-17 since 1945. Our program emphasizes non-competitive skill development through horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, and wilderness trips, all guided by experienced staff dedicated to building self-esteem and environmental stewardship. With a legacy of family leadership spanning four generations, we maintain a commitment to safety, diversity, and individualized attention. Our 800-acre campus in Western North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest provides an ideal setting for both structured activities and spontaneous exploration. We prioritize camper autonomy through flexible scheduling while maintaining rigorous safety protocols.With representation from all 50 states and over a dozen countries, our community cultivates global perspectives through shared outdoor experiences. Our staff undergoes comprehensive training to create a supportive environment where girls develop independence and lasting friendships. The camp's historical continuity, evidenced by 80 years of operation and multi-generational camper families, underscores our proven approach to youth development. We maintain transparent communication with parents through regular updates and digital resources. Our financial aid programs ensure accessibility while preserving the integrity of our core programming.
Services
Horseback Riding
Wilderness Trips
Kayaking
Rock Climbing
Mountain Biking
Details
- Year established: 1945
Highlights and features
- We offer 80 years of experience in girls' outdoor education
- Our program emphasizes non-competitive skill development
- We maintain a 4:1 camper-to-staff ratio for personalized attention
- Our wilderness safety protocols exceed industry standards
- Multi-generational family leadership ensures program continuity
What people say
Increased self-confidence
Lifelong friendships formed
Experienced staff
Beautiful mountain setting
Non-competitive environment
Services
Horseback Riding
Our equestrian program teaches horsemanship skills through riding lessons and trail excursions. Campers learn proper horse care, riding techniques, and safety protocols. The program accommodates all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders.
Wilderness Trips
Guided wilderness trips range from introductory overnight camping to advanced multi-day treks. Participants learn navigation, campcraft, and environmental stewardship while exploring Pisgah National Forest and surrounding areas.
Rock Climbing
The climbing program includes instruction on our climbing tower and outdoor rock faces. Certified instructors teach safety techniques, equipment use, and climbing strategies for various skill levels.
Kayaking
Our water sports program offers kayaking instruction on Lake Summit's private cove. Campers learn paddling techniques, water safety, and environmental awareness while developing confidence on the water.
Mountain Biking
The mountain biking program explores over 50 miles of trails through forests and mountains. Participants learn trail navigation, bike maintenance, and safety while experiencing diverse terrain suitable for all skill levels.
People
Calla Bell Williamson
Director
Fourth-generation camp director with extensive experience in outdoor education. Graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill with degrees in environmental studies and leadership development. Oversees program implementation and staff training.
David Bell
Director of Camp Mondamin
Co-director with over 30 years of camp leadership experience. Specializes in wilderness safety protocols and outdoor program development. Holds certifications in first aid and risk management.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve girls aged 6-17 with session options for different age groups and experience levels.
How do you ensure camper safety?
Our safety protocols include trained staff, 4:1 camper-to-staff ratios, equipment checks, and established emergency procedures.
What outdoor activities are available?
We offer horseback riding, rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and wilderness trips.
Are there different session lengths?
We offer 2-week, 3-week, and 5-week sessions to accommodate different schedules and experience levels.
How do you handle homesickness?
Our staff uses proven strategies to help campers adjust, including structured activities and personalized support.
Can parents visit campers?
We host Friends and Family Weekend during Labor Day and encourage communication through letters and our photo system.
Reviews (7)
Lindsay Thompson
Mar 31, 2021
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Our oldest daughter was apprehensive about her first sleep away camp. At the conclusion of her two weeks, she was all smiles and did not want to leave. She set goals, worked toward them, made friends, increased her self-confidence. We cant say enough about the supportive, FUN, safe, nurturing environment. Great communication with parents, too. Her younger sister will join her this summer, and they both cannot wait!
Missy Sutherlin
Mar 25, 2021
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My oldest daughter LOVES Camp Green Cove! She loved how she was able to choose her activities and once she fell in love with climbing, she loved that she was able to grow and gain knowledge in that activity. As a parent, I loved how she was able to connect with new friends, and grow in self confidence and independence. Little sister can't wait to join this summer!
Nina English
Nov 23, 2020
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I went there as a camper, was a counselor and so far two of my three daughters have attended and absolutely loved it. They learn real skills -- mountain biking, canoeing, camping. They've made fabulous friends from wonderful families. They grew in independence and confidence and had a wonderful time!
Ivey Patton
Sep 17, 2019
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My daughter is a camper and my son is a counselor! (at Camp Mondamin) We love this beautiful 'old school' camp! Tucked away in a quiet and beautiful cove, this camp delivers on every front....my daughter loved every minute of her 5 weeks and chats with her camp friends as much as her 'home' friends! The activities are top drawer, she loved the food, her counselors, the deep traditions, the adventure and the camaraderie! Time in nature, away from screens, should be an essential element of a childhood summer well spent...Green Cove delivers!
Diego Guinea
Jul 23, 2018
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This is a great camp and a fantastic place for my children. They have a such a good time that they ask me to return every year, but above all I think is a great experience for their development and personal growth. The camp is fantastically managed, oriented at making the kids enjoy nature, learn new skills and go out of their boundaries . learning responsibly how to manage themselves in the wilderness supervised by excellent counselors who are experts in each of the different sports and activities. The camp is noncompetitive, but focused at having kids making friends and enjoying activities
Richard
Jul 22, 2018
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My 13 year old daughter attended Green Cove for the first time this summer for main camp and had a magical time. She chose Green Cove on the recommendation of a friend and can not wait to go back. This was far from her first overnight camp experience, in fact it was her 5th summer (two years at each of 2 camps). Green Cove was a wonderful, growing experience for her and we highly recommend.
2018 Update: Great experience again. Thanks Greencove!
2018 Update: Great experience again. Thanks Greencove!
Heather
Feb 01, 2018
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Our family loves Camp Green Cove! We are from Chicago and I was nervous sending my daughter to camp for the first time as she didn't know anyone who would be there, but this all dissipated within a few letters home. She is now signed up for her third summer- she has made amazing friends, deepened her appreciation for the outdoors, and has gained so many new skills, all of which will influence her life down the road. We couldn't be happier with the programs and the amount of time that children are given the opportunity to spend out of camp in the wilderness if they choose to do so.
