Nothing beats the excitement and happiness in my kids voice when he tells me all about his experiences and the friends he made at camp. Going to Camp Watia is most definitely the highlight of his year, and knowing he is somewhere that he can grow in mind, body, and spirit, while mom and dad knows he is in good, safe hands makes it the highlight of our year as well. Returning to camp year after year, watching the older kids and being excited for his turn, and then seeing the younger kids arrive, and remembering how it felt when he was first coming to camp, instills a sense of belonging and connectedness in him that has become foundational to who he is. We have only been home from camp for a few weeks now, and are already planning our camp experience for next year. Thank you to Shannon Raab, Zay Latham, and the whole Camp Watia team for making it happen.
My 12 year old loved the time in the lake. She appreciated the counselors paying attention to her (and realize that she wasn't eating) and take the time to talk to her about it. (I appreciate it too!) She loved the variety of things to do as well as the variety of great people to do them with.
Horseback riding was a big hit. Missed out on a lot of the other activities due to weather this year, but rock climbing, the slide and nature cooking were favorites int he past.
Fun yet simple summer activities encourage a love of the western North Carolina outdoors and interaction with new friends without any technology. My kids have consistently said that they appreciate a break from cell phones, technology, and social media. They can just be silly, creative kids for a few weeks.
I like the values that are instilled, the strong community that is formed, the kindness that is expected, and the opportunity for young people to have healthy, full-on fun in the outdoors with caring mentors. It’s an exceptional gift to families and kids.
My children have been going to Watia for several years now. My daughter’s first stay was when she was in second grade. She is now a rising 10th grader. She looks forward to the friendships she makes and all of the fun activities. She always comes home excited about next summer. My son thrives at camp Watia. He loves the activities and mock rock! The counselors are exceptional. We spend several weeks after camp talking about the amazing counselors and directors. Names continue to pop up in our conversations weeks and even months after camp.
My kids are very different and they both find belonging at Camp Watia! They come back with stories and memories, having made new friends and increased independence. We love Camp Watia and think it’s the best!
Excellent staff who are great with kids, appropriate youth-staff ratios, high quality programming and activities and buildings and grounds are well kept. Our camper also said the food was very good. Best WNC Y program that exists.
My daughter loves the cabin vibe and the group of girls she gets to bond with every year. The counselors are so attentive and they bring the "joy" each and everyday. We will be back!