Boys Summer Camp in NC
The value of brotherhood
In a classic Camp Highlander boys’ summer session, adventure pulses through every moment—whether it’s the thrill of leaping into a cold mountain lake at dawn, the quiet satisfaction of building a fire from scratch, or the friendly roar of competition during an epic game of capture the flag. It’s a place where boys unplug from screens and plug into something far more powerful: the natural world, a band of brothers, and their own growing confidence. These shared journeys forge bonds of brotherhood rooted in trust, leadership, and lifelong friendship.
Surrounded by towering pines and open skies, boys are free to be unapologetically themselves—muddy, loud, curious, brave. They learn resilience on long hikes, responsibility in shared cabins, and leadership on the sports field and around the campfire. In this rough-and-tumble, heart-centered environment, boys develop grit, empathy, and lasting friendships that shape their character long after summer ends. It’s not just about fun—it’s about growing into the kind of young man who leads with strength, kindness, and a sense of adventure that never fades.
The Best Boys Summer Camp in North Carolina
True belonging should never require the sacrifice of your integrity—for it is possible to find your place among others while remaining firmly grounded in who you are and what you believe.
Integrity is the foundation that boys’ camp is built upon. It is the freedom that allows every boy to pursue camaraderie without abandoning his individuality. We challenge our campers to do the right thing, even when no one is watching and even when they do not want to. Our cabin unit intentionally fosters an environment in which each boy is free to succeed and fail, while remaining honest and courageous.
Integrity allows each boy to both benefit from and contribute to the brotherhood of his cabin. It takes integrity to be true to who you are even when feeling pressured to compromise your values; integrity to compete with others or challenge yourself in such a way that commands respect, whether you win or lose; integrity to bring the best out of others as you offer the very best of yourself; integrity to recognize each unique character trait and gift that God has given you, and to faithfully use them to grow into the man he wants you to become.
At Camp Highlander, we seek to build young men of integrity as they embrace the brotherhood of their cabin unit and the community of camp.
Summer Camp Games & Activities for Boys
Camp Highlander’s boys’ camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina offers a dynamic blend of adventure, skill-building, and camaraderie. Campers engage in over 25 activities, including kayaking, canoeing, swimming, whitewater rafting, water slides, and the Blob, ensuring there’s always a splash surplus at Highlander . Land-based pursuits like soccer, climbing walls, and flint-knapping foster teamwork and personal growth.
Off-camp adventures take boys into the heart of Western North Carolina’s natural beauty, with trips to Pisgah National and Dupont State Forests for hiking, climbing, and swimming . Evenings are filled with diverse programs such as talent shows, dodge ball, square dances, and scavenger hunts, creating memorable experiences under the stars.
Each day balances structured activities with moments of reflection and rest, allowing boys to recharge and connect with their peers. Through these experiences, campers develop resilience, leadership, and lasting friendships in a supportive and adventurous environment.
SPORTS THAT BUILD TEAMWORK
Campers can play basketball on our outdoor courts, join a soccer match on our athletic fields, play volleyball with new friends, and more. Through friendly competition and teamwork, bonds are formed as the boys pursue their favorite sports and take on new athletic challenges. Sports help teach values like good sportsmanship, perseverance, and cooperation.
EXPLORE THE WILDERNESS
The beautiful wilderness surrounding our summer camp provides the ideal setting for rugged outdoor adventures. Boys can go hiking and camping under the stars, and learn outdoor skills. They’ll bond with new friends while exploring the forests and trails. We’ve found that connecting with the outdoors builds confidence and appreciation for nature, a mindset that will follow boys the rest of their lives.
COOL OFF AT THE LAKE
After an active day, there’s no better way for boys to cool off than by making a splash at our private lake! Campers can swim, try out the blob, and play water sports. We also offer kayaking, canoeing, swimming, whitewater rafting, and water slides. Our lake is easily one of the favorite parts of camp!
The Advantages of Sleepaway Summer Camp for Boys
Sending your son to sleepaway summer camp provides benefits that last long after his time at camp. He’ll build confidence by discovering new abilities and overcoming challenges. He’ll also develop independent living skills as he manages his daily schedule and new responsibilities. The camp environment also fosters deep friendships and memories he’ll cherish forever. At Camp Highlander, your son will create bonds, grow in character, and gather stories to share for years to come.
BUILD CONFIDENCE
Attending sleepaway camp is an incredible way for boys to build confidence. Campers can challenge themselves both physically and mentally by trying new activities, overcoming obstacles, and pushing beyond their comfort zones. As they learn outdoor skills, solve problems, and accomplish goals at camp, their self-assurance grows. Bonding with other boys who are experiencing the same growth and facing the same challenges creates a supportive community where everyone thrives.
DEVELOP INDEPENDENCE
Another benefit of summer camp is that it allows boys to develop greater independence. Away from home, campers must take responsibility for themselves. Following the camp rules and routines teaches organization, discipline, and time management. As boys gain these independent living skills, they feel more self-sufficient and mature, ready to take on challenges both in and out of Camp Highlander.
MAKE MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME
The bonds, adventures, and personal growth experienced at summer camp result in priceless lifelong memories. Campers will reminisce for years to come about their cabin, campfire skits, lasting friendships, conquering the climbing wall, favorite camp meals, and so much more. Photos and memorabilia from camp will remind your son of the invaluable lessons, endless fun, and brotherhood he shared. The memories made at summer camp stay with campers forever.
A Typical Day at Our Boys Summer Camp in North Carolina
Campers rise early for flag raising and breakfast, then attend cabin activities focused on our core values. Archery, hiking, arts and crafts, and team sports fill the active morning hours. After a delicious lunch, there’s rest time before more afternoon activities like swimming, canoeing and kayaking, and field games. Our evenings include campfire gatherings, skits, and special events. Before lights out, the campers reflect on the day’s highlights with their cabin mates. It’s the ideal combination of fun and enrichment!
PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES WITH YOUR CABIN
At our North Carolina summer camp, campers participate in activities as a cabin group which creates a supportive team environment. With their cabin there to encourage them, campers feel comfortable pushing past their comfort zones and trying new things. Our cabin system allows campers to meet challenges, achieve personal triumphs, and make memories while surrounded by the care of their counselors and cabin mates.
TAKE TIME TO RELAX
Between the busy schedule and endless adventures, campers are given scheduled time to relax and recharge. Free time allows campers to socialize independently and find quiet moments amidst the high energy. Our dedicated rest hour after lunch gives campers a much needed break to simply rest, read, or write letters home. We understand the importance of downtime and aim to provide campers with a balanced experience.
ENJOY EVENING PROGRAMS
At camp, when the sun goes down the fun turns up! Our lively evening programs range from talent shows to carnivals, cabin challenges to scavenger hunts. Many evening activities strengthen the bonds between cabins through cooperative games and team building. Other programs allow campers’ individual talents to shine. The evening adventures make lifelong memories and provide the perfect energetic close to each fun-filled day.
WHY CHOOSE CAMP HIGHLANDER OVER OTHER BOYS OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS?
BEAUTIFUL SETTING IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Camp Highlander sits on 240 acres of pristine North Carolina wilderness in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. The main central 40 acres of camp contain our cabins, dining hall, and activity areas where campers spend much of their time. But campers also explore beyond to learn wilderness skills, hike the trails, and sleep under the stars on Forge Mountain.
BUILDING HONESTY AND INTEGRITY
At Camp Highlander, building strong character is central to our philosophy. Through our leadership and values-based education, we nurture honesty, integrity, courage, and responsibility in each boy. Campers learn the importance of doing the right thing and remaining true to themselves. We empower boys to compete and lead with respect, as we believe a foundation of integrity allows meaningful connections and personal growth.
UNIQUE ACTIVITIES
Camp Highlander offers an extensive variety of unique camp activities to match any interest or ability. From horseback riding on mountain trails to kayaking on our private lake, campers discover new passions. Our evening activities range from campfires to carnivals. With traditional camp fun and unique adventures, boredom never strikes at Camp Highlander!
Have Questions About Sleep Away Summer Camp for Boys?
Choosing the perfect experience for your camper isn’t a decision you take lightly! If you have questions, please visit our FAQs.
You can also hear from parents like you about their experience with Camp Highlander. And if you have any questions that are still unanswered, please contact us so we have a chance to chat.
WHAT’S THE FOOD AT CAMP LIKE?
We offer a wide variety of meal options, a mix of comfort food and nutritious foods to energize your camper. If you have any dietary restrictions such as peanuts, dairy, gluten, and more we’re happy to offer alternative options. Please contact our camp office before your boy’s arrival.
WHAT BOYS SUMMER CAMP SUPPLIES SHOULD WE PACK?
If you need help deciding what to pack for boys summer camp, we’ve created pack lists based on your session so you can make sure he has everything he needs!
CAN I CONTACT MY KID AT CAMP?
In order to promote independence and self-reliance, we limit communication to letters, bunk notes, and cards. Your child would love to receive a letter from you, and we require a weekly postcard home. Of course, in the case of an emergency, you can contact our camp office.
We always want you to feel plugged in to your child’s experience at camp, which is why we’ve partnered with the Companion software to give you photo updates, uploads of handwritten letters from your child, and the opportunity to write emails to your camper!