bigzip2.jpeg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Registration Questions

▼

How do I register my child for camp?

▼

Registration is done online through our registration system. Click here to register. Select your desired camp week and complete the registration form. You'll need to provide emergency contact information, medical history, and any special accommodations your camper may need.

What is the registration deposit?

▼

A $150 deposit is required at the time of registration to secure your camper's spot.

What if my child is on a waitlist?

▼

The waitlist process is automated. When a spot becomes available:

The system will send you an email
You have 24 hours to respond to the email
If you do not respond within 24 hours, your camper will be automatically removed from the waitlist

Important: Add [email protected] and [email protected] to your address book so you don't miss these notifications!

Payment Questions

▼

When is final payment due?

▼

All camp fees must be paid in full by May 1st. If the full balance is not paid by May 1st, payment will be automatically drafted from your original form of payment through Active Network.

Important: If you are waiting for a scholarship from your church, make sure the payment is received by Camp Tekoa prior to May 1st.

Can I set up a payment plan?

▼

Yes! Families are welcome to schedule a monthly payment plan if they register before April 1, after the initial $150 deposit has been made. All payment plans must be paid in full by May 1.

What happens if my payment fails?

▼

If your final payment fails for any reason, or if your payment is not received by May 1st, a $50 service fee will be charged to your account on May 2nd.

Is financial assistance available?

▼

Yes! Camp Tekoa is dedicated to providing youth with a meaningful camp experience - the "Tekoa Experience." No child should be excluded from this experience due to financial concerns.

How to Apply for Scholarship Assistance:

First contact your church about financial support
If your family and local church cannot cover the full fee, partial scholarships are available from the Tekoa Scholarship Fund
Complete a Scholarship Request form
The form must be signed by both parent/guardian AND your minister or sponsoring agency representative
Submit the form prior to or with your camper's registration

If you have questions regarding scholarship assistance, please Contact Our Registrar

What is your cancellation policy?

▼

More than 21 days before camp: You will receive a refund of the balance paid, minus the $150 deposit
Within 21 days of camp: No refund
After camp begins: No refunds (this includes campers sent home due to illness, inappropriate behavior, or homesickness)

The camp director reserves the right to dismiss any camper whose conduct becomes detrimental to other campers. No refunds will be given in these cases.

To cancel: Use the self-cancellation option in Active (our registration system). You can cancel your own registration until April 25th.

To switch camps or weeks: Please contact our office at 828-692-6516.

What to Expect at Camp

▼

What type of camp structure does Tekoa use?

▼

Camp Tekoa uses a "family group" structure. Campers are organized into small groups of 6-9 boys and 6-9 girls (depending on the program) with male and female counselors. Family groups:

Participate in all activities together
Eat meals together
Are housed separately by gender in bunk-style cabins or lodges
Are organized by camper age and cabin mate requests

This structure promotes strong camper-to-camper and camper-to-staff relationships.

What activities will my child do?

▼

Activities vary by camp type and age group, but may include:

On-site activities:

Swimming in our spring-fed lake
Boating and paddle boarding
Climbing tower and ziplines
High ropes course and challenge course
Arts and crafts
Nature hikes
Campfires and worship
Talent shows
Games and recreation

Off-site adventures (for adventure camps):

Rock climbing at Looking Glass Rock
Whitewater rafting and tubing
Backpacking in Pisgah National Forest
Caving at Worley's Cave
Waterfall exploration
Horseback riding
And much more!

All activities are centered on our mission statement: "Touching Hearts, Changing Lives, and Sharing the Light of Christ."

What is the faith component at camp?

▼

At Tekoa, faith isn't an afterthought—it's woven into everything we do. Campers experience:

Morning and evening devotions
Conversations with our camp pastor
Evening campfires with worship and reflection
Opportunities to ask questions about faith and the Bible
A supportive Christian community

We welcome campers at all stages of their faith journey and celebrate questions and spiritual growth.

How are cabin mate requests handled?

▼

Campers may request one cabin mate when registering. To ensure your camper is placed together:

Make sure the request is reciprocal (both campers must request each other)
Both campers must be registered for the same camp session
Both must be in the same age group

Important policies:

Cabin mate assignments cannot be changed at check-in
Confusion and disappointment can be avoided if you help your child choose carefully and confirm it's reciprocal

Call our office if you need clarification on this policy.

What about homesickness?

▼

It is natural for most campers to experience some degree of homesickness, especially if it's their first time away from home. It's not uncommon for parents to receive a homesick letter, only to call camp and learn that homesick feelings have passed and the camper is now having fun!

How we help:

Our Family Group Leaders plan the first few hours in detail to help campers feel comfortable
Campers quickly engage in games and icebreakers to make new friends
Staff are trained in strategies to help homesick campers
Our counselors are excellent listeners and create a supportive environment

How you can help before camp:

Have the conversation: Talk about camp and stress that challenges help children grow. Mention that homesickness is normal.
Develop strategies: Discuss things your camper can do to make bedtime easier (when homesickness often arises)
Practice at home: Have younger campers practice their daily routine independently
Use positive language: Focus on what they're looking forward to, not potential problems
Write encouraging letters: Drop off pre-written letters at check-in so they arrive during the first few days

AVOID the "Pick-Up Deal": Never say "If you feel homesick, I'll come get you." This undermines your camper's confidence and becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Focus on encouraging them to embrace this new experience!

If homesickness persists:

If a camper wants to call home, directors will consult with the counselor first
One of our directors will call parents to discuss the situation
We consult with parents on how best to address the issue
Several options are possible, with the best solution being active involvement and staying at camp
Phone calls are limited to 5 minutes under staff supervision (and often make things worse)
Picking up early is the last resort

What to Bring

▼

What should my camper pack?

▼

For complete, detailed packing lists specific to your camp type, please visit our Packing Lists page

General items for all campers:

Clothing:

Casual clothes for 5-7 days
Swimsuit (one-piece for girls; swim trunks for boys - no briefs)
Closed-toed shoes for activities
Sandals
Rain jacket
Modest clothing (see dress code below)
Bedding for twin bed or sleeping bag
Towels and toiletries

What should NOT be brought to camp?

▼

Electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches, tablets, iPods, video games, etc.) - these will be confiscated
Tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, firearms, or fireworks
Food, candy, or gum (will be disposed of)
Expensive jewelry or large amounts of money
Anything you can't afford to lose!

What is the dress code?

▼

We have a dress code of modesty:

Nothing with slogans promoting alcohol, sex, tobacco, drugs, profanity, or death themes
One-piece swimsuits for girls (tankinis are two-pieces and not allowed)
Swim trunks (not briefs) for boys
Girls: no sports bras alone, tops too short to tuck in, short-shorts, or tight clothes. Tank tops should not be underwear-style or show belly/bra.
Guys: no going shirtless except during appropriate sports. No underwear showing. No underwear-style tank tops.
Shoes, shirts & pants required in dining hall (Health Department regulation)

What about Adventure Camp additions?

▼

Adventure camps have specific requirements based on activities. Check your camp's Info Sheet for:

Backpacking gear requirements
Physical fitness requirements
Additional waivers needed

Download your camp's specific Info Sheet and Packing List

Communication with Campers

▼

Can I call my child at camp?

▼

Telephone calls to campers are strongly discouraged. Campers may not use the telephone except to return emergency calls from immediate family.

Why? Phone calls often increase homesickness rather than relieve it. We've found that letters and emails work much better!

You may call: Parents may speak with administrative staff if necessary.

Cell phones: No cell phones or smart watches are allowed at camp. These will be confiscated if brought.

How do I send mail to my camper?

▼

Regular Mail: Mail letters/packages one week prior to camp so they arrive on time.

Address mail to:
[Camper Name]
[Event Name, Camp Week]
Camp Tekoa
PO Box 1793
Flat Rock, NC 28731

Important:

NO food, candy, or gum (will be disposed of)
Label clearly with camper name, event name, and camp week
Any mail received after your camper's week ends will be shredded - we cannot forward mail

Drop-off option: You may also leave letters and packages at check-in. Write your camper's name and the date you want it delivered on the package.

Can I email my child?

▼

Yes! Campers can receive emails through our website email system.

How it works:

Email information will be sent to you the week before your camper arrives
We do not give this information out over the phone to protect your child's privacy
Check your pre-camp emails for details

Writing tips:

Focus on what your camper is looking forward to doing at camp
Encourage them to achieve their goals
Ask them to write back telling you about the fun things they're doing
Avoid topics that might make them miss home more

Pre-written letters: Drop off letters at check-in so your camper has mail from home during the first few days (before postal mail arrives).

Will you contact me if there's a problem?

▼

Yes! We will contact you if:

Your camper is sick for more than 6 hours
There is a major injury or illness requiring hospital/doctor visit
There are significant homesickness concerns that require parental consultation
Any emergency situation arises

Minor injuries and illnesses are documented in our Nurse Log Book but don't typically require parent contact.

Health & Safety

▼

What medical care is available?

▼

A registered nurse is on duty 24 hours a day
Our wellness center is fully stocked with generic over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antacids, etc.)
For serious injuries/illnesses, campers are transported to local hospitals or doctors

How do I handle medications?

▼

At Check-In:

ALL medications must be checked in with the nurse
Prescription medications must be in original containers
Place in a Ziploc bag clearly marked with:
- Camper's name
- Dose amount
- Frequency
- Any special instructions
Bring ONLY the amount needed for your camper's stay

Important:

Campers are NOT allowed to keep medications with them
Do NOT send over-the-counter medications - we have these on hand and will not return them
Medications left at camp will be disposed of after 7 days
At check-out, collect all medications from the nurse's table

New: We now have a Medicine Pre-Check-In Form to streamline the process!

Does Camp Tekoa provide health insurance?

▼

No. Camp Tekoa does not carry health insurance on campers. Campers must be covered under a policy provided from home.

If your camper requires medical treatment:

Your insurance information will be provided to the hospital/physician
Any unpaid medical bills will be sent home or collected at check-out

What if my child has allergies or special dietary needs?

▼

Please note all allergies, dietary restrictions, and special needs on your registration form. Our kitchen staff works to accommodate dietary needs whenever possible. If you have specific concerns, contact our office before camp.

What about safety during check-in and check-out?

▼

Please drive cautiously through our site! We have many pedestrians and lots of activity on check-in and check-out days.

Tekoa is committed to the safety of all staff, campers, and guests
Our staff will be identifiable by their Tekoa Staff Shirts
Follow signs and verbal instructions
Keep campers, visitors, and minors in your presence at all times during check-in

Can visitors come to camp during the session?

▼

Visitors are permitted ONLY WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE DIRECTOR.

If approved:

Request advance notice for visits (for security)
ALL visitors REQUIRED to check in/out at camp office
Must wear a visitor's pass while on site
Guest meal costs: $7 breakfast, $8 lunch, $9 dinner
Give 48-hour notice for meals and pay Business Manager upon arrival

Can I bring my pet?

▼

NO pets are allowed with campers during their stay at camp, except service animals assisting persons with special needs.

Pets brought on site during registration and pick-up must be contained and on a leash.

Behavior Expectations

▼

What are the behavior expectations at camp?

▼

Camp Tekoa expects campers to:

Show respect for others, staff, and property
Participate actively in activities
Follow safety guidelines
Support and encourage fellow campers
Be open to new experiences and friendships

What items are prohibited?

▼

Absolutely prohibited:

All forms of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs
Firearms and fireworks
Electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches, tablets, iPods, video games, etc.)

We reserve the right to dismiss campers for violations.

Searches: Should there be reasonable or probable cause for the health and safety of all campers and staff, campers may be asked to inventory their belongings in the presence of administrative staff.

What about relationships and PDA?

▼

Camp Tekoa emphasizes friendships at camp rather than "relationships."

We do not allow PDA (public/private displays of affection) that go beyond friendship. Campers will be dismissed for inappropriate sexual behavior.

What happens if my child misbehaves?

▼

Minor behavior issues are addressed by counselors and directors through conversation, natural consequences, and problem-solving.

Serious behavior violations:

The camp director reserves the right to dismiss any camper whose conduct becomes detrimental to other campers
Parents will be contacted immediately
No refunds are given in cases of dismissal for behavior

Once camp begins, there are no refunds for campers sent home due to inappropriate behavior, illness, or homesickness.

Special Accommodations

▼

Does Camp Tekoa serve campers with special needs?

▼

Yes! Camp Tekoa offers a Barnabas Camp specifically designed for adults with developmental disabilities. Barnabas is offered once per summer.

Requirements:

Campers must be 18 years or older
Campers must be ambulatory
Must be able to feed, bathe, and clothe themselves independently
Complete our Special Needs Questionnaire

What makes Barnabas special:

Each camper is partnered with a trained "Special Friend" volunteer
Special Friends remain by their side throughout the week
Adapted activities include boating, hiking, zipline, arts & crafts, devotions, and talent shows
Emphasis on encouragement, care, and Christian love

Learn more about our Special Needs Camps

What if my child needs accommodations but doesn't qualify for Barnabas?

▼

We do our best to include everyone in our camp community! Please contact our office to discuss your child's specific needs. Many accommodations can be made within our traditional camp programs.

Call 828-692-6516 or contact us to discuss options.

Check-In & Check-Out

▼

When and where is check-in?

▼

Sunday Drop-off:

3:00–3:30 pm: First Half Mini Campers, First Half Older Elementary Starter Campers, and Elementary Overnight Campers
3:30–4:00 pm: Middle School Overnight Campers and First Half Middle School Starter Campers
4:00–4:30 pm: High School Overnight Campers

Wednesday Drop-off:

4:00–4:30 pm: Second Half Mini Campers, Older Elementary Starter Campers, and Middle School Starter Campers

Important: If you have campers in more than one age group, please plan to drop off and pick up according to your youngest camper's age.

A Note About Safety: Please drive cautiously through our site. We have many pedestrians and lots of activity on our large check-in and check-out days. Tekoa is committed to the safety of all staff, campers, and guests. Our staff will be identifiable by their Tekoa Staff Shirts and will assist you throughout the property.

Should any changes affect check-in or check-out days, we will communicate via the email associated with your registration.

What about check-out?

▼

Wednesday Pick-up:

9:00–9:30 am: First Half Mini Campers

Saturday Pick-up:

9:00–9:30 am: Mini, Starter, and Elementary Campers
9:30–10:00 am: Middle School Campers and Middle School Starter Campers
10:00–10:30 am: High School Campers

Important: If you have campers in more than one age group, please plan to drop off and pick up according to your youngest camper's age.

What about the camp store?

▼

The camp store sells:

Snacks/drinks ($2.50)
T-shirts ($20+) and clothing
Stuffed animals ($2-$14+)
Hats, Nalgenes ($22), jewelry ($2-$12)
Gift bags
And more!

Store items are available for purchase both at check-in and online.

We recommend pre-paying store money at check-in — it expedites the process. Additional money cannot be added during the camper's week. Unused money is available for return at check-out. Balances under $1.00 are automatically transferred to the Tekoa Scholarship Fund.