NUTS & BOLTS
When was Camp Highlander established?
Since first opening our gates in 1957, Camp Highlander has stood as a cherished tradition—where generations of campers have come to laugh, grow, and find their place in the world. For over six decades, our mountain has echoed with timeless songs, sacred rituals, and the enduring spirit of summer that lives on in every camper who calls Highlander home.
Is Camp Highlander accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA)?
Camp Highlander is proudly accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) and is a member of the North Carolina Youth Camp Association (NCYCA). We are also honored to hold a Special Use Permit, granting us access to the Pisgah, Nantahala, and DuPont National Forests for outdoor adventures and programming.
How many acres?
Camp Highlander spans 240 acres of pristine North Carolina wilderness, offering endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. While our campers spend most of their time on the central 40 acres—home to our cabins, dining hall, and core activities—they often venture beyond to explore the greater expanse of Forge Mountain. Whether it’s a wilderness education lesson or a night spent sleeping under the stars, there’s always something new to discover in the great outdoors.
How many cabins are on camp?
Nestled across the scenic slopes of Old Forge Mountain, our 34 charming cabins provide a welcoming home away from home. Divided between the designated Girls’ Camp and Boys’ Camp areas, each cabin is thoughtfully designed and fully equipped with full bathing and restroom facilities with two sinks, two toilets, and two showers to ensure comfort and convenience for every camper.
How many campers per session?
Each summer, Camp Highlander bursts to life with the energy of 260 to 300 campers, depending on the session. From the first cheerful morning wake-up to the final campfire song, our mountain home becomes a haven for both new and returning campers, ages 6 to 16, who come ready to explore, grow, and make memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s their first summer or their sixth, every child arrives with a sense of anticipation—and leaves with confidence, lifelong friendships, and stories they’ll never stop telling.
What is your hiring process for staff?
At Camp Highlander, we take great care in selecting the best staff to lead and inspire our campers. Our hiring process begins with a detailed application where candidates share their experience, skills, and passion for working with children. Promising applicants are invited to a personal interview, where we get to know them through thoughtful questions and real-life scenarios. We follow up with reference checks and conduct thorough background screenings to ensure the safety and well-being of every camper. Once hired, staff complete comprehensive training—both online and on-site—covering safety procedures, behavior management, and role-specific instruction. We’re proud to build a team of compassionate, capable leaders who live out our camp’s values and create unforgettable summer experiences.
How many campers and staff per cabin?
At Camp Highlander, the cabin unit is your camper’s family away from home. From sharing meals in the dining hall to enjoying daily activities and teaming up for cabin inspections, cabin groups do life together. Each cabin includes up to 10 campers and at least two dedicated counselors who ensure every child is safe, supported, and having fun. This close-knit unit is one of the things that makes Highlander truly special. The bonds formed within the cabin help campers feel known and valued, giving them the confidence to try new things and rise to new challenges. Whether it’s their first summer or their fifth, every camper finds a sense of belonging, love, and comfort in their cabin family.
How many activities?
From pottery and cooking to rock climbing and kayaking, campers at Camp Highlander enjoy a vibrant mix of over 25 exciting activities right here on camp. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. For those staying two weeks or longer, the experience expands beyond our gates with off-camp excursions into the breathtaking Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest. Campers hike winding trails, climb natural rock faces, and splash into refreshing swimming holes—all under the guidance of our experienced staff. And no Highlander adventure would be complete without the most anticipated outing of all: a sweet trip to Dolly’s Ice Cream Bar, a beloved local favorite and camper tradition!
How many states and countries are represented?
In recent years, Camp Highlander has proudly welcomed campers from 27 different states, creating a vibrant and diverse community that feels like family. Even more exciting, our reach has extended across the globe—we’ve had the joy of making new friends from 19 different countries, bringing a world of perspectives, traditions, and friendships to our mountain home.
What does CHIF mean?
At Camp Highlander, CHIF stands for the four core values we strive to embody and inspire in others: Courage, Honesty, Integrity, and Faith. These principles are the foundation of everything we do, and we are committed to instilling them in every camper and staff member who walks through our gates.