The Best Outdoor Summer Camp for Kids in North Carolina

Inspiring Environmental Stewards

Located on a 3,400-acre private wildlife preserve in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Green River Preserve is a premier overnight summer camp for boys and girls, ages 6-18. Our nature-based programs are designed to challenge and support campers as they grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity.

Our screen-free summer camp blends outdoor adventure with environmental education. Campers explore forests and rivers, build meaningful friendships, and develop a lasting connection to the natural world.

We offer 1-, 2-, and 3-week traditional summer camp sessions for campers in rising 1st through 9th grade. Campers live in cabin communities, swim in lakes, hike through forests, explore caves, and splash through streams. Activities include rock climbing, archery, mountain biking, and nature-based outdoor skills, along with creative experiences such as arts, crafts, music, and pottery.

Our teen expedition programs offer immersive wilderness adventures for campers in rising 7th through 12th grade in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Campers backpack, hike, climb, bike, or canoe in small groups while building leadership, resilience, and real-world outdoor skills through meaningful backcountry adventure.

Learn more about our session dates and rates or connect with our team to find the right program for your camper.

Our camper to staff ratio is 3 to 1

At Green River Preserve, your child is guided by experienced outdoor educators who are carefully selected for their character, judgment, and ability to work with young people. Every staff member is certified in outdoor leadership, risk management, and youth development.

Our team brings a depth of real-world experience that enriches every aspect of camp. They are expert naturalists, outdoor guides, conservationists, archaeologists, musicians, and artists who share a passion for working with young people and the natural world.

With a 3:1 camper-to-staff ratio, our team provides close supervision and meaningful mentorship. Campers learn directly from experienced professionals while building confidence in a safe, supportive environment where they feel known, encouraged, and inspired to grow.