Camper Safety

Having fun while staying safe

At The Wilds, safety is at the heart of everything we do because we want campers to grow spiritually, make lifelong memories, and enjoy every exciting moment of camp with confidence and peace of mind. Here’s how we create an environment that’s both adventurous and secure.

Skilled Staff

Qualified, compassionate, committed servants

Because we believe that one of the most important parts of the camp experience is the people, we go to extensive measures to enable our staff to provide campers with the physical and spiritual care they need.

Our goal with these measures is to provide a safe, enjoyable experience of fun and spiritual growth for every camper.

Staff Selection

Our 300-some summer staff come from Christian colleges and churches across the country. Many of them we have known for years as campers. And the vast majority of our full-time staff started out as summer staff.

Screening

We require all staff to go through a rigorous screening process. Each staff member must complete reference and background checks, as well as online child protection and abuse awareness training through MinistrySafe.

Policies and Procedures

All staff must agree to abide by our zero-tolerance abuse protocol and mandatory reporting procedure.

Hands-on Training

Staff members receive robust training that teaches them how to carry out their specific role as well as how to provide frontline biblical counsel that assists campers in taking their next step of spiritual growth. Our full-time staff also have additional outside training, degrees, licenses, and certifications in their areas of expertise.

Assessment

To provide ongoing accountability, in addition to working alongside each other, each staff member meets regularly with a supervisor to intentionally review areas of growth and progress and provide encouragement in meeting personal goals.

On-site Medical Care

We’re here to help

No one wants to get sick or hurt while they are at camp, but sometimes campers need some extra care. Our registered nurses are trained and prepared to care for the medical needs of our visitors. 

First Aid

The nurses staff a well-equipped infirmary and are available at any time for first aid and advice. They strive to communicate closely with parents and sponsors in the event of a camper injury or illness that prevents the camper from participating in the regular camp program.

Preparedness

The nurses are present at all of the organized summer team games and work closely with the EMTʻs on the Emergency Response Team to be prepared for medical emergencies. Multiple first aid kits are stocked around the campsite for quick staff access.

Medication

Summer camper medications are administered daily by the health service team using two identifiers (name and picture) to maintain accuracy.

Food Allergies

Campers with food allergies are contacted two weeks prior to their arrival by our camp dietitian to discuss the menu in preparation for their camp week.

Camper Supervision

Minimizing risk

Camper well-being and supervision is our top priority from arrival to departure. We desire to provide a structured and memorable experience for every camper.

Arrival

Each camper is matched up with a trained counselor who will guide them through what we hope will be a life-changing week.

During camp

With approximately a 1:3 staff-to-camper ratio, and counselors assigned to individual cabins, campers are never far from someone who can help them have a great experience. Parents are also welcome to use our Parent Portal to see camp for themselves throughout the week.

Departure

Campers who attend with an organized group will be released to the sponsors of that group. Other campers are delivered by our staff to their indicated pick-up person at a designated location.

Activity Safety

Wild(s) adventures!

What’s camp without a little adventure? Whether it’s soaring on the Zipline, flying through the air on the Giant Swing, or tackling the Climbing Wall, we seek to provide activities that are fun for all while seeking to minimize risk.

Thorough Inspections: All major program activities are professionally inspected every year, regularly checked by trained staff, and periodically reviewed by ACCT-certified staff.

Trained Operators: Our team undergoes extensive training and regular refreshers to stay sharp, including expert-led professional development.

Proven Procedures: Every activity follows written operational guidelines developed by and reviewed annually by experienced staff.



Water Safety

Alert camper care

We want campers to have a blast with our water activities, but we also use systems to help minimize the inherent risks.

Certified Lifeguards: Certified lifeguards oversee swimming activities and receive camp-specific training.

Buddy System & Check-Ins: Campers swim with a buddy and follow a check-in/check-out process at the lake.

Swim Tests: We offer swim tests to determine each camper’s comfort in the water. Campers who don’t take or pass the test can still enjoy the lake activities with a camp-provided personal flotation device (PFD).

We believe adventure and safety can go hand in hand, so campers can experience the thrill of trying something new without undue risk!

Security

A secure environment

A protected environment helps campers focus on what truly matters: growing in their faith, forming friendships, and making memories. Here’s how we work to protect that environment:

  • Gated Access & Cameras: Our property has one access point by vehicle and is monitored by multiple cameras.
  • Visible Identification: During youth camps, adults are asked to wear visible identifiers so everyone knows who’s part of the program. Visitors must check in at the Main Office and receive a guest pass.
  • Prepared Staff: With a high staff-to-camper ratio, our team is always present and ready to help. They’re trained in prevention and in our Emergency Action Plan.
  • Emergency Response Team: Our team is equipped to respond quickly and effectively to a variety of situations until professional emergency services arrive if needed.

We take security seriously because we know it’s essential for creating an atmosphere where campers can grow, explore, and thrive.

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Whether you’re eager for a thrilling summer adventure or a refreshing escape, The Wilds of North Carolina has a camp just for you! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and embark on an unforgettable journey. Don’t miss out—sign up for The Wilds today!