Starter Camp (Age 6-10) for 1 week

Our shortest camp session, Starter Camp is a great way for boys (and parents) to “test the waters” of an overnight camp experience. The structure of this six-day kids camp program fosters a sense of stability for campers as they rotate through the daily activities with their cabinmates and counselors. These campers participate in a broad selection of the skills and activities offered by Rockmont, while gaining confidence in their ability to plunge into new challenges, make new friends, and interact with the natural world.

Classic Camp ( Age 7-16) for 2 weeks

Classic Camp is the next progression from Starter Camp. The longer stay cultivates a deeper level of independence and resiliency in campers, as well as a stronger connection with counselors and peers. In this program, campers focus on learning six skills of their choosing, engage in a wider variety of group activities, and develop a greater appreciation for and comfort with nature as they head into the woods on campouts. In addition to all the usual fun to be had at camp, these campers have the opportunity to register for a variety of off-camp day trips, including rafting, kayaking, waterskiing, mountain biking, and horseback trail rides. The 13 days of this overnight summer camp are classic Rockmont!

Base Camp (Age 11-16) for  3 weeks

Rockmont offers two Base Camp experiences, each with a unique focus.

Base Camp 1  begins with a unique, 4 night expedition into the wilderness where camp is set at a place such as Pisgah National Forest at Cove Creek and the Davidson River, or the Black Mountain Campground and the South Toe River. From this outpost, campers will explore the surrounding area, tackle adventurous activities, and tap into the relaxed pace and natural rhythm that is only found in such timeless and wild locations. 

Activities on the Base Camp 1 campout will include Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, Fly Fishing, Hiking, and more!

During the next 16 days of Base Camp, campers participate in all the classic elements of camp including skills (such as blacksmithing, Appalachian Arts, kayaking, basketball, archery, riflery, and homesteading), Tribal Activities, and classic Rockmont campouts.

Base Camp 2: Expeditions is a new experience that will take place at the end of Summer 2021! Campers will get to experience a Classic, 2 week session and then jump right into a different paced week of adventure. During the final week of Base Camp Expeditions, campers will enjoy a new adventurous trip every single day: rafting, waterskiing, zip-lining; all based out of their Rockmont home. When back at camp, they’ll enjoy the fellowship, fun, and the full expanse of Rockmont’s acreage!

Summit Camp (Age 11-16) for 27 days

Our 27-day program is for Rockmont campers ready to dive-in to a longer experience of camp life.

Summit Campers get to know themselves and each other in different ways because they play, work, and live together for a full four weeks.

During the first two weeks, campers settle into the usual routines of camp life—skills of their choosing, high-energy activities, meals in Eden Hall, campouts, quiet moments of reflection, and cultivation of friendships.

At the midway mark, Summit Campers enjoy activities such as rafting, ice cream excursions, swimming holes, and movies at our outdoor theater. 

Following an adventurous weekend of fun, Summit Campers will jump into another Classic Session with new games and advanced skills offered only to Summit Campers!

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Within each camp session, a camper’s experience varies depending on his age. From placement of cabins to the language used to bless and encourage, every aspect of camp is thoughtfully tailored to the developmental needs of your camper. The age divisions also create a smaller community where every camper is known and appreciated.

Bear Camp - Age 10 & Under

Our youngest campers in Bear Camp sleep in one of two lodges located in the center of camp, just steps away from the dining hall. We strive to bless these campers with plenty of affirmation and success at new activities, building up their self esteem and reservoir of confidence. During weekly council, the focus is on the camp motto…strength and gentleness, force and refinement, mastery of body, and servitude to God. In addition to participating in group games and activities (“tribal activities”) campers can choose from over 20 skills to specialize in, including crafts, nature, outdoor skills, canoeing, disc sports, and air riflery. Campers venture into the woods for one night of outdoor camping.

Deer Camp- Ages 11-12

Deer Campers reside further up the mountain in cabins that feel like tree houses. The emphasis continues to be building up these campers, while also offering meaningful invitations into a life of service. During council, the focus shifts from the camp motto to the four marks of a godly man…rejecting passivity, accepting responsibility, leading courageously, and trusting in God. A number of additional skills are available for this age, including kayaking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Deer Campers spend more time in the woods and are offered a unique challenge by choice: hiking to the highest point on camp, Eden Rock.

 Mountain Camp - Ages 13-15

Mountain Campers reside further up the mountain and many of their activities span the breadth of the property. While we always strive to affirm everyone at camp, there is a shifting emphasis in Mountain Camp towards challenging campers with personal goal setting. Council at this age integrates the camp motto and four marks of a Godly man, as well as ranks aimed at encouraging growth. More activities open up for this age, including trap shooting, blacksmithing, and photography.

Catalyst Program Ages 16-17

The Catalyst Program marks the end of the boy’s time as a camper and the beginning of his life as a young man. This invitation is good news for our 16 and 17 year-olds, but it is never easy. The path to becoming a young man is not something that is merely stumbled upon, engaged in many youth organizations, or happens during your first semester at college. During our years of working with boys and young men, we have seen the need for a more intentional journey during this time of development. The Catalyst Program is our hope to jump start this time of transition.

CIT (Counselor in Training)  Ages 16-17

In our CIT program (formerly the Service and Leadership Corps.), we are training young men to become counselors at Rockmont, and our counselors are chosen for their commitments, maturity, developing skills, and growing faith. CIT is a transitional program for young men with a focus on Fun, Counselor Skill Training, Leadership Development, Work Training, and Community Service.

Adventure Trips

• One-Day Lake James Trip

The one-day trip to Lake James has long been one of camp’s most popular optional trips. All levels of watersports enthusiasts are welcome to participate. Our trained and experienced staff knows how to coach, encourage, and promote fun in a safe environment for beginners wanting to learn to ski, kneeboard, or wake board to seasoned veterans alike.

• Whitewater Raft Trip

Discover the excitement of whitewater, the grandeur of forested mountain bluffs, the tranquility of isolated pools, and the constantly varying currents of a mountain stream. This one-day trip offers a thrilling ride down some of Appalachia’s most scenic and exciting rivers. Participants will talk about this one for a long time to come!

• Mountain Biking Trip

Western North Carolina is home to some of the best mountain biking in the country. The experience of cruising down single-track trails through tunnels of lush rhododendron is not soon forgotten. Our one-day trip includes personalized instruction and is open to riders of all levels.

• Rock Climbing Trip

Climbing provides a great opportunity to build confidence and learn perseverance. Our ‘pilgrims of the vertical’ master the fundamentals before reaching new heights on rock walls in Western North Carolina.

• Horseback Trail Ride

Following a 45 – 60 minute lesson, campers enjoy a two-hour trail ride across Rockmont’s exciting variety of terrain. Each ride will then conclude with our quarter-master preparing a meal in the style of the “old west”. The advanced trail ride is for campers who are ready for more saddle time and a further adventure up the mountain. Our riding instructors will test and approve campers who are ready for this challenge. Pack long pants and a pair of heeled, closed-toe shoes or boots for safety.

Group Activities

• Battleball
• Waterfront “Toys” – Blob, Turtle, Log, Gully Washer
• Campouts
• Capture the Flag
• Dances
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Intramurals
• Mile Swim
• Movie Night
• Professional Entertainers
• Relay Games
• Storytellers
• Talent Shows
• Theme Games
• Thunderball
• Track Meets
• Water Basketball/Polo/Volleyball
• Waterfront Olympics
• Slip ‘n’ Slide
• Zip-Lining

Arts and Crafts

• Crafts

Crafts offers a camper the opportunity to slow down, work with his hands, and redirect his energies into a creative project. From leather and wood work to duct tape finery, crafting creations come in all shapes, sizes, and mediums.

Like many of our other activities, craft projects are offered for campers of all ages and skill levels. Participants are encouraged to share ideas and enjoy the creativity that comes from conversation with friends and collaborators.

WHY CRAFTS?

In everything we do at Camp Rockmont, we aim to help young men build strong relationships and fine-tune skills that will assist them in becoming contributors in their homes and communities. We strive to create more than we consume, and crafts is a fun way to begin developing creative skills and habits. Crafts and other artistic activities such as blacksmithing require campers to employ problem solving skills, while also paying careful attention to detail. By participating in the creative process with friends, campers also learn the importance of taking others’ ideas into consideration and working towards a new creation together.

ABOUT THE CRAFTS INSTRUCTOR

Crafts is led by Kristy Beaver, who has worked with Camp Rockmont for five summers. In her spare time, Kristy enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her family.

• Ceramics

The Camp Rockmont Ceramics Studio is in a beautifully lit room on the ground floor of the Ship, overlooking Lake Eden. We begin with teaching the basic hand building techniques, and then we introduce campers to one of our five potter’s wheels. Campers are encouraged and helped to create something beautiful and are introduced to the concept of craftsmanship. We hire staff with a love and mastery of ceramics, and we encourage them to welcome young men into a craft that can last a lifetime. It is also inspiring to work with ceramics in the original classroom studies building of Black Mountain College, an interdisciplinary college that operated on Lake Eden until 1956.

• Guitar

From Etta Baker to the Carter family, the guitar has been a staple in Appalachian music culture for many years. In this skill you’ll get to strum along with our talented staff, whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, learning chords and more advanced techniques like picking. Sharpen your skills and learn to play the Rockmont classics.

• Photography

With all of the beauty that surrounds us at Rockmont, capturing it is a great skill to have. In photography skill you’ll learn the basic techniques such as exposure, aperture, and ISO, as well as go deeper into the skill with techniques that use light creatively, capture wildlife on the move, and learn to tell a story in pictures. Work with our skilled photography staff learning new techniques and building on others. Capture the beauty of Rockmont in action.

Outdoor Activities and Sports

• Archery

Archery is an Olympic Sport, hunting skill, and classic camp activity. Archery appeals to a camper’s sense of adventure, and it invites him into an ancient and living tradition. Archery allows him to learn a historic and primitive skill that has been employed by people around the world and across time. From native American hunters to mythological heroes, the strength, patience, and steadiness required to shoot a bow have been important skills. For modern hunters, the use of a bow is a way of enhancing the sport.

At Rockmont, archery has always been near the center of camp. The range is just below Arrowhead Lodge, adjacent to the Tennis Courts. A shaded platform makes it enjoyable to concentrate on the finely-tuned skills required to advance in the skill.

Our equipment includes both traditional recurve and long bows, as well as modern compound bows, sized for campers of all ages. Our emphasis is on form, technique, and focus. The archery range mantra is “Aim small, miss small,”. Campers learn through practicing this ancient art that concentration and focus are powerful and important skills.

• Basketball

Rockmont’s Brookside Gym is in the center of camp, perched above the waterfront. The gym is used for many fun and rowdy gatherings, but when the skills bugle blows, Brookside becomes the home of Rockmont basketball.

Rockmont basketball is about teamwork, encouragement, challenge, skill development, and as always, growth. Many alumni fondly remember Brookside as a place where they truly came alive through a unique combination of joyful friendship and serious basketball. There a camper can grow in his own skills, but he can also grow in his recognition and awareness of others.

Through an assortment of lively games and activities, we teach the fundamentals of dribbling, passing, shooting, and team play. Then, we scrimmage. This is a great chance to pick up the game, or to to go deeper into a game you already know and love.

• Disc Sports

We have been playing disc golf at Rockmont since before the invention of Disc Golf. The original course was designed by David Bruce and Johnny Klutz in 1976. It featured 18 birdhouse-shaped targets of varying par lengths. The course record is held (or claimed) by David Bruce.

Disc Golf is now officially a Rockmont tradition. We play with official rules and equipment , and our new 18 hole course is a wandering beauty, with plenty of wide open and inviting stretches, as well as treacherous hazards. Eric Beason currently holds (claims) the course record, which is always up for a challenge.

Ultimate Frisbee is another Rockmont tradition dating back many decades. We play it on just about any grass surface, and we often find a way to cool off after a vigorous game. It’s hard to beat a game of Ultimate followed by a Free Swim in Lake Eden. Together Disc Golf and Ultimate Frisbee comprise Disc Sports, one of our most popular and enjoyable skills for all ages.

• Fitness for Life

In this fast moving high energy skill, you’ll engage in strength training and cardio workouts while learning safe and beneficial weight lifting fundamentals. In 2019 we added a brand new weight training facility to the Summit Our staff put together a training schedule that you will go through, progressing in various exercise techniques and paces. Move through the Fitness Trail at Rockmont while breathing in the fresh mountain air. All experience is welcome, so whether you’re a gym regular or are looking for some new exercises to explore, our staff meet you where you are.

• Fly Tying

Fly Tying is a creative, exciting, and soulful way to add to the fly fishing experience. The normal evolution of a fly fisher usually includes fly tying sometime along the line. Some do it to save money or learn a new skill. Others want to try it to increase their involvement in the finer details of the sport. No matter what your reasons are, tying flies seems to be an integral part of the whole fly fishing picture. At Rockmont campers will learn the basics of equipment, the process of tying Tail to Head, and then the magic starts. Campers move from big and hairy (wooly bugger) to small and delicate (mosquito) and lots of yet to be named creations in between. Every camper has a chair at the vice so there’s no waiting to get started in this skill.

 

 

• Horseback Riding

Rockmont’s riding program gives campers the opportunity to form a trusting partnership with a horse. Campers may sign up for the 5-day skill option (i.e. lessons) or the 1-day trail ride. Those who choose the skill option will spend significant time in the riding ring where they receive hands-on instruction appropriate to their skill level and will practice navigating the obstacle course, having developed a strong foundation for riding. They will also spend some time riding our trails. By the end of the session, campers will have progressed in their horsemanship and appreciation for horses and the natural world.

 

 

WHY HORSEBACK RIDING?

Horseback Riding is an excellent confidence-builder. It requires participants to be attentive and aware of what is going on around them. Horseback Riding can be both mentally and physically challenging, and campers are encouraged to participate at whatever level they feel comfortable.

There are several ways we ensure a safe experience for our campers during Horseback Riding and trail rides. A questionnaire is sent to campers’ families prior to camp so that our instructor is familiar with each camper’s previous experience with horses. Campers who have participated in Horseback Riding at Camp Rockmont previously are able to progress in those skills they’ve learned.

Our Horseback Riding Director works with our horses throughout the year and knows them intimately. This ensures we know each horse’s temperament and allows us to pair horses appropriately with each camper based on personality, skill, and comfort level.

ABOUT THE HORSEBACK RIDING INSTRUCTOR

Horseback Riding is taught by Sara Boelt. Sara grew up riding horses and has worked with them most of her life. Sara studied biology at Mars Hill College, and now lives at Camp Rockmont year-round, caring for the camp horses. When camp isn’t in session, Sara operates Lighter Mount Horsemanship at the Camp Rockmont barn, teaching riding to local children and some adults as well. She also teaches lessons and trains horses at farms around the area, participates in endurance riding, and occasionally serves as a vet tech with a local equine veterinarian.

• Mountain Biking

Explore Rockmont’s most beautiful trails, learn bike maintenance and safety, and expand your riding skills. Off camp trips are available also. All skill levels are welcome.

• Rock Climbing

Rock climbing at Rockmont is an intense skill. Learn core skills like proper body movement, belaying and rappelling, as well as perseverance and communication. Overcome obstacles, and gain a new perspective of the world on our 50-foot climbing tower and in our lakeside trees. Our ‘pilgrims of the vertical’ master the fundamentals before reaching new heights on rock walls in Western North Carolina.

• Soccer

Soccer at Camp Rockmont combines skill instruction with fun yet competitive games and scrimmages to campers of all ages. While the primary goal is to have fun, coaching tips are given to facilitate growth. It is our goal to offer guidance and instruction that will help campers play the sport effectively.

Skill periods are arranged by campers’ age in order to provide similar skill development and appropriate challenge. Skill levels are determined through initial scrimmages, as well as games that take place during Soccer practice. Our aim is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to improve their soccer skills during these activities, so teams are split up as fairly as possible.

WHY SOCCER?

At Camp Rockmont, we encourage all campers to build each other up. While we do enjoy creating a competitive atmosphere during Soccer games and scrimmages, we also make sure campers know we are all here together at camp to have fun and grow.

• Table Games

Play ping pong, foosball, and darts in an open-air setting for fun and exciting competitions. These long-standing games offer both a challenge and a freedom to play with little pressure. Test your skills and your winning streak as you compete with the best at Rockmont.

• Tennis

Stretch your body and your mind, play a match or king of the court, learn or advance the basic skills of a lifelong sport. (You may bring your own racquet, or borrow one of ours, but Rockmont cannot be responsible for personal equipment.)

Specialty Activities

• Air Riflery

In Air Riflery, campers ages 10 and younger receive careful instruction about how to handle and fire BB guns. They learn range commands and procedures to ensure the highest level of safety. Campers practice the skills they have learned on the range and shoot traditional BB gun targets or perhaps a can of Cheerwine for a little extra fun.

Our goal with Air Riflery is to help campers comprehend the seriousness of proper BB gun handling and safety practices while helping them feel comfortable during shooting practice. Campers learn how to determine that a BB gun is safe to use and are reminded to handle firearms as though they could fire at any time. Guns are checked daily for proper operation.

WHY AIR RIFLERY?

Air Riflery at Camp Rockmont is structured to be a safe, positive, and supportive experience. Like Trap Shooting and Riflery, Air Riflery instills a sense of confidence in campers and allows them to learn how to safely operate a firearm.

• Blacksmithing

Blacksmithing is offered at a beginner to intermediate level for boys ages 13 and older. During blacksmithing lessons, campers use a hammer and anvil to transform metals into artistic creations. Participants also learn about the science of the craft as they create alloys by hammering different types of metals together for a unique effect.

This skill teaches fundamental blacksmithing techniques, allowing campers to progress at their own pace. A one-to-one ratio at the forge (the furnace used to heat the metal objects) ensures individual attention and enhanced camper safety.

WHY BLACKSMITHING?

Blacksmithing requires careful attention to detail that offers a rewarding finished product. The young men who take part in blacksmithing at Camp Rockmont take incredible pride in the quality and creativity of their work. The challenge and process of transforming such a durable medium as iron gives our students a powerful boost in confidence.

• Grilling

Learn to grill steaks, burgers, veggies, fish, chicken and more in Rockmont’s new waterfront Grill Pavillion!

• Riflery

Learn gun safety and care, proper aiming and shooting technique, and then shoot for ranks.

 

• Rocketry

Campers who choose Rocketry as a skill will have the opportunity to build their own rocket and launch it high above Camp Rockmont. The thrill increases as they take a front row seat to their fellow campers’ launches as well. This activity is offered to campers ages 9 and up, and rocket kits are available for a variety of skill levels.

To ensure the highest level of safety during launch, campers are guided carefully by our staff throughout the construction of their rockets. Campers are also encouraged to help one another troubleshoot problems in a creative, positive environment.

Once a rocket has been built, it can be launched repeatedly. Campers may take their rockets home and continue the hobby with just a few additional parts from a local hobby store.

WHY ROCKETRY?

Rocketry requires campers to read instruction manuals while also leaving space for their creative juices to flow. The skill helps campers build independence, patience, and self-control, while also encouraging measured risk-taking.

• Trap Shooting

Trap shooting is one of the three traditional disciplines of clay pigeon shooting and is considered one of the most technically challenging facets of recreational and competitive shooting.

This skill is available for campers ages 13 and older and caters to all skill levels. And because ensuring camper safety is our highest priority, we carefully assess firearms experience and maturity level throughout the skill training.

During trap shooting instruction, campers learn to use shotguns to shoot at aerial moving targets. Campers will master a solid foundation of firearms safety and gain exposure to proper shooting technique. Campers also have the opportunity to earn a ranking certificate from the NRA based on their skill level upon completion.

Please note that trap shooting does require an additional fee.

WHY TRAP SHOOTING?

Trap shooting imparts a newfound confidence in campers. Learning to safely and proficiently operate a firearm gives campers a great sense of pride, satisfaction and achievement.

Rockmont has several Certified Range Safety Officers through the National Skeet Shooting Association both on their year round and seasonal staff and a dedicated Trap Shooting Director each Summer.

Waterfront Activities

• Canoeing

Canoeing is a long-standing tradition within the summer camp experience. It is a sport that requires an intense focus and ability to communicate, as well as paddle effectively. Begin at our canoeing shed each skill. Head out onto the lake for paddling with a T-Grip, learn how to T-Rescue, maneuver your canoe, and maybe even a game of scavenger hunt around Lake Eden. This skill is for experts and beginners alike.

• Kayaking

Campers ages 11 and older have the opportunity to learn a wide range of kayaking skills at Camp Rockmont. And since safety is important to do skills well, campers renew and build on their knowledge each day, including the ability to roll their kayaks. Work your way up to trying some of the more advanced parts like launching from the deck of Eden Hall or dropping in on our ramp on the lake. You’ll be pushed to be a better paddler, learn a High and Low Brace Turn, and enjoy being on the water with others. See our kayaking students in action!

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Activities on Lake Eden always provide a mixture of challenge and fun. Find your balance on top of the water as you learn the basic stokes. Technique comes quickly even to the most recent beginner in this easy-going aquatic sport. This skill is a great way to get a workout, play games, and enjoy being literally on the water.

• Swim Sports

Strengthen your swimming ability through active aquatic fun, such as water volleyball, water basketball, water polo, blobbing, Turtle games, and beach games. For all levels, from beginners to advanced swimmers.

• Swim Basics

Increase your confidence in the water with basic self-rescue skills and introduction to front and back crawl strokes. This course is for beginner swimmers. Goggles are strongly recommended.

• Swim Stroke Development

Improve your balance, streamlining, breathing, and propulsion in all strokes using total immersion techniques. Must be intermediate to strong swimmer. Goggles are strongly recommended.

• Swim with the Lifeguards

Acquire skills designed to teach water safety, accident prevention, rescue procedures, and many of the skills required to be a future lifeguard. This skill teaches American Red Cross techniques.

 Wilderness & Survival Skills

• Homesteading

Campers who sign up for Homesteading will be able to experience what it was like to live in the mountains of western North Carolina 100 years ago, as well as what it means to be a modern Homesteader living sustainably today. They will work in our organic garden, planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops. Campers will also help tend to the goats, chickens, and turkey; gather eggs; and help with a variety of other tasks that are essential to running the farm.

Through individual and collaborative work, campers get to enjoy the tangible benefits of their hard work each day—maybe some flapjacks with sorghum syrup or a frittata with swiss chard—that has been prepared on the wood-burning stove by the assigned cooking group for the day.

Mountain Campers that are a part of Homesteading are given opportunities to participate more independently in higher-level skills at the farm. Older campers in past summers have helped build a bicycle-powered grain grinder, which we use to process sorghum and corn, and a portable, solar hot water system that heats water for washing our dishes. They also have the opportunity to sign up to go to the local farmer’s market to sell produce from the farm. Using the profits from the market, they are able to make micro-loans to farmers in other parts of the world through our Rockmont Farm lending team on Kiva. Rockmont has loaned money to people all over the world who are helping it thrive!

 WHY HOMESTEADING?

By giving campers individual and group responsibilities in all aspects of farm work, campers see first-hand the value of hard work and cooperation. At the same time, campers increase their knowledge of food systems and build a higher level of organic growing skills to take home with them. They experience the benefits of their labor by tasting the freshly prepared food they help prepare.

When we harvest food and send it to the camp’s dining hall for others to enjoy or sell produce at the Black Mountain Farmer’s Market, campers see how we are connected to our broader community. And when we use the profits from the market sales to make a microloan on Kiva to a farmer in Indonesia or Peru, they see our connection to the broader world.

ABOUT THE HOMESTEADING INSTRUCTOR

Homesteading is taught by Jon McNair. Farmer Jon has been managing the farm and acting as skill head for Homesteading for more than 10 years. Prior to his tenure at Camp Rockmont, Jon taught for eight years in the public school system in North Carolina.

 

 

• Nature

Find your place in the amazing neighborhood of plants, animals, streams, and forests that we enjoy at Rockmont. Meet some exotic creatures and some that are living nearby. Learn their names and discover their lives in our Nature Lodge. Be a part of the great dance that is God’s Creation.