skip to main content
wateradventure.jpeg

WHY CHOOSE TEKOA

Experience Tekoa

Discover the magic of the mountains, where every camper finds their story.

Camp Tekoa mountains and campers

Our Mission

"Touching Hearts, Changing Lives, Sharing the Light of Christ."

Since 1949

Camp Tekoa has been creating transformative summer experiences for children in the North Carolina mountains. For over 75 years, we've welcomed generations of campers, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Through fun programming and outdoor ministry, our staff are able to meet the mission of Camp Tekoa and help make a difference in many campers' lives.

What Makes Us Different

Since 1949

Camp Tekoa has been creating transformative summer experiences for children in the North Carolina mountains. With over 75 years of ministry, we've welcomed generations of campers who return year after year—and eventually send their own children to experience the magic of Tekoa.

Christ-Centered Community

At Tekoa, faith isn't an afterthought—it's woven into everything we do. From morning devotions to evening campfires, campers explore their relationship with God in an environment that celebrates questions, encourages growth, and welcomes all.

Exceptional Staff

Our carefully selected summer staff undergo extensive training and background checks. Every counselor is a Christian, college-age student who is passionate about working with children and committed to our mission. They spend two weeks in intensive training before campers arrive, learning everything from age-appropriate faith development to emergency response.

Adventure & Growth

Whether it's conquering our climbing tower, paddling across the lake, or hiking through Pisgah National Forest, campers push their boundaries in a safe, supportive environment. Our adventure programs are designed to build confidence, resilience, and trust.

Our Programs

Summer Camp Season (May - August)

Tekoa offers four main program types during summer:

Day Camps

Day Camps

Perfect for younger campers or first-time camp experiences

Overnight Camps

Overnight (TKO) Camps

Traditional cabin-based camps with swimming, crafts, hiking, and more

Adventure Camps

Adventure Camps

High-energy programs featuring rock climbing, whitewater activities, and wilderness exploration

Special Needs Camps

Special Needs Camps (Barnabas)

Specialized programming for campers with special needs

School-Year Programming

Camp doesn't end in August! Tekoa offers:

Tekoa Afterschool

Tekoa Afterschool

After-school programs for Henderson County students

Tekoa Homeschool

Tekoa Homeschool

Monthly outdoor education for homeschool families

School Break Camps

School Break Camps

Day camps during school breaks

Retreats

Retreats

Year-round retreat experiences

By the Numbers

75+ Years of ministry
2000+ Campers served each summer
135 Acres of mountain property
100+ Staff Members dedicated to your child's growth

Since 1949 - Creating memories that last a lifetime 

What Families Are Saying

Hear from campers, parents, staff, and volunteers about their Tekoa experience.

"My 14 yr old son came home from camp and said that he had a life changing experience. He needed this more than I could've ever known. He tried new things and met positive people. He came home happy."

— Jessica S, camper parent

"Camp Tekoa is amazing! Great work environment for a summer job, cannot stress enough how fun it is to work here. Came as a camper growing up and more of the same. Just a super positive environment to learn and grow through Christ and the outdoors!"

— Jackson L, summer staff & former camper

"My daughter has been attending Camp Tekoa annually for six years. She started with a mini-camp as a rising first grader. My daughter's summers at Tekoa have helped shape a shy and sometimes timid young girl into a confident and independent tween, raring to try new adventures and meet new people every year."

— Erin P, camper parent

"I just went for my second year. Both years I've had fantastic counselors, friendly fellow campers, and unforgettable experiences. My only complaint is that the weeks are too short."

— Alona F, camper

"My kids have been going since 2014. It has been an amazing experience for them in exploring their faith in a whole new way while making awesome memories. My son was an LIT last year and absolutely loved it — it provided him with excellent leadership training."

— Sukie R, camper parent

"Camp Tekoa has been a part of my life since I was in middle school. It was something that really changed my life. It led me on a path to go into college, to lead my youth group, find ministry in college, and come back to Camp Tekoa to work."

— Zach E, donor & staff alum

"I was a camper at Tekoa in the 80s. My daughter has been mostly every year from day camp to overnight and now HS adventure camp. She returns from her week of being unplugged rejuvenated and with so many stories. We both have made friends for life from shared experiences."

— Emily D, camper parent & former camper

"We are always so grateful for the experiences our boys always enjoy at Camp Tekoa. Not only do they get great adventures, they learn how to live in Christian community where respect and dignity for all is the norm and expectation."

— Candis W, staff alum & camper parent

"I was a camper, camp counselor, met my husband here and have now sent my kids here. Camp Tekoa has a special, special place in my heart!"

— Anna S, staff alum & camper parent

"I am a 75 year old grandmother who went to Tekoa when I was in 4th and 5th grades! Such a wonderful experience! My daughters also enjoyed Camp Tekoa in the mid eighties! Hopefully my granddaughters will be able to go also!"

— Karen P, former camper & parent

"My daughter just got back from a week camp at Camp Tekoa! And all I can say is WOW! Every single counselor was so kind and inspiring! She had not one bad thing to say! (Except that it was over!) As a parent too — the cost was very affordable, so much communication, lots of pictures, and overall so reassuring!"

— Megan L, camper parent

"Our family have attended, volunteered, and supported financially Camp Tekoa since the 1950's. It's still reaching so many folks and we're happy to be a part of it still."

— Sharon T, volunteer

"My daughters especially liked how Tekoa remained age appropriate. In elementary school it was all the traditional summer camp activities you'd expect. By the time they were in HS it was more like 'adventures in WNC' with all the off-campus excursions. Amazing memories over an almost 15 year stretch."

— Jim C, camper parent

"I went to Camp Tekoa both as a camper and as a staff member. Not sure how else to describe it. It changed my life. We plan on sending our children here."

— Curt R, staff alum

"Camp Tekoa is an amazing and beautiful place. My 3 kids were campers every year and 2 of them were camp counselors. Tekoa played a big part in molding their strong Christian faith and I am grateful for that. My grandkids are now enjoying all the things this great camp offers."

— Terry B, camper parent & donor

"Tekoa is a beautiful Spirit-filled place whose staff creates amazing experiences for kids with a focus on sharing the light of Christ. Kids learn new skills and confidence, while they grow their faith in God's beautiful creation."

— Lindsay P, staff alum & camper parent

"Camp Tekoa has been a fixture of our family for over a decade. My girls were campers and then a part of staff. There are few places left where your child can unplug and enjoy God's creation with their peers. They will gain confidence, have fun, and draw closer to God. Choose Tekoa!"

— Shannon R, camper parent

"Amazing people, a life changing experience. A candle in the darkness."

— Jonathan H, staff alum

"Camp Tekoa is excellent in all that they offer and do. This is where you go to commune with God in the beautiful setting of the lake and the rolling hills of NC. The staff is very friendly and always positive. I highly recommend Camp Tekoa. It is truly one of my happy places!"

— Norma D, retreat guest & donor

"My son had an amazing camp experience. Loved it so much he wanted me to sign up for next year as soon as we drove home. Thank you for an awesome experience."

— Angela B, camper parent

"This is such a beautiful and loving camp! My kids have both gone alone and we just love it so much. The counselors are so well trained, the food is delicious, and the activities are challenging and fun! We enjoyed Tekoa for many years, and we recommend it highly for anyone!"

— Cynthia S, camper parent

"Its always a joy to go to events at Camp Tekoa. The staff is so caring and well organized and always make it a lot of fun for the participants, whether for a reunion, camp, or day camp."

— Julianna W, Barnabas camper parent

"I recently experienced this camp with a Girl Scout retreat! I was absolutely blown away. Jake was amazing making sure everything was perfect and very responsive. My girls loved it so much they want us to send them to summer camp there!"

— Jessica D, retreat guest

"Camp Tekoa was a treasured experience for my children for years. It is holy ground, a place to meet with God. And it is fun and engaging, every day! The price point is very fair and the staff are excellent!"

— Marianne R, camper parent

"My kids love the whole experience. They said it was a whole vibe. They loved the camp counselors and they loved the different activities."

— Tyeisha W, camper parent

"Best camp ever. Staff is awesome and there is so much to do. Our son loves it and never gets tired of being there. We love the afterschool program, break camps, and summer camp. Can't go wrong with Tekoa!"

— Sam E, camper parent

"My son had a great time at middle school 1 week sleep away camp this summer. All his fellow campers were friendly, the staff was welcoming and supportive and daily activities were fun and organized. He is looking forward to going back next year!"

— J D, camper parent

"No better place! My boys have attended for over 10 years and they have grown up with Tekoa as their safe space."

— Chelsea M, camper parent

"We can't say enough good things! Our kids had an amazing experience and are already looking forward to coming back next summer. Thanks so much to all the counselors and staff!!"

— Ashley S, camper parent

"My son has been attending day camp at Camp Tekoa for years. They always provide an enriching environment, are compassionate, caring, and engaging. We love Camp Tekoa and the memories made there will stay with us forever!"

— Heather K, camper parent

"This camp is really fun and spiritually guiding. I really enjoyed my experience and hope you can as well. The staff and counselors are very nice and encouraging to everyone. No matter what part of camp you sign up for it will still be an amazing and fun experience."

— Braden A, camper

"Wonderful summer camp (and a bit more affordable than many others in the area). It has a great old time feeling main lodge, cabins, and wonderful caring counselors. My son went to the day camp and the afterschool program. Definitely recommend."

— Kathy D, camper parent

"This is a great camp! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. He has the best stories to tell when he comes home. I believe all children should go to this camp."

— Jessica B, camper parent

"Ultimate summer camp experience."

— Renee C, camper parent

Meet Our Leadership

Rev. John Isley

Rev. John Isley

Executive Director

Drew Morton

Drew Morton

Program Director

Alicia McClain Hawkins

Alicia McClain Hawkins

Afterschool Director

Bill Porter

Bill Porter

Retreats & Hospitality Director

Melisa Coates

Melisa Coates

Fund Development Director

Eleanor Trollinger

Eleanor Trollinger

Food Service Director

Greg Trollinger

Greg Trollinger

Maintenance Director

Holly Lane

Holly Lane

Registrar & Retail Manager

Lucas Hannah

Lucas Hannah

Maintenance Assistant

Karen Rohrer

Angela Harrell

Business Manager

Jake Beasley

Jake Beasley

Program Intern

Levi Sweat

Levi Sweat

Program Intern

×