Articles

For children to flourish in the modern world, it’s important that they spend quality time outdoors. As caring parents, it’s up to us to ensure they reap the benefits of outdoor play, such as hands-on learning, valuable social interactions, and restorative activities - all of which can’t be achieved with a tap of a screen. Getting outside can be the first step, but it’s not always easy to figure out what to do next and how to make it meaningful. To help you create meaningful outdoor moments with your children, here are some simple tips and ideas for outdoor activities.

Parents, is your daughter ready for an adventure this summer? Camp Ton-A-Wandah is the perfect place for your daughter to find her inner explorer and create lasting memories. Nestled on the shores of its very own ten-acre lake in the pristine Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Ton-A-Wandah is a residential summer camp for girls. With 365 acres of mountainous terrain including streams, trails, and a cascading waterfall, campers will have the opportunity to explore and discover the beauty of their surroundings. Since 1933, Camp Ton-A-Wandah has been a summer tradition for girls from five to 16 years old. At TAW, young girls are able to develop new skills, create friendships, and discover who they are as individuals. As campers have fun while learning, they will also be building character and making memories that will last a lifetime. Camp Ton-A-Wandah is a place of exploration and challenge, where girls can find adventure and new opportunities. In historic Flat Rock, a few miles from Hendersonville, your daughter will get to experience the refreshing summer climate and enjoy the beauty of the natural world. Take the opportunity to give your daughter a summer experience that will stay with her forever: send her to Camp Ton-A-Wandah, that magic place where the water falls.

Since 1993, Adventure Treks has been providing teens from all over the world with the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and have life-changing experiences. Our team of professionals guide young adults ages 13-18 through some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet, teaching them valuable skills such as self-confidence, social achievement, teamwork, and leadership. Over the past 25 years, we have offered more than 20 programs across North America, with over 20,000 students having gone on this journey. So if you’re looking for a unique summer experience for your teen that will help them grow in numerous ways, Adventure Treks is the perfect choice.

Nestled in the wooded lakeside of West North Carolina's magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains, Pinewood Camp is a shining example of the finest independent private camps in the country. With 47 years of experience, the Levine family, directors, and staff have created a safe, secure, and happy atmosphere for campers. It's a place where campers can build confidence, character, values, and self-reliance in a caring and fun environment. Pinewood Camp is located one mile east of Hendersonville, providing a secluded and picturesque setting for campers to enjoy. At Pinewood Camp, the Levine family and staff are committed to creating a safe, secure, and happy atmosphere for campers. Through activities and events, campers will be able to learn important values and skills, while making friendships that will last a lifetime. With a focus on safety and fun, Pinewood Camp is the perfect place to help campers grow and mature.

At Blue Star, we believe in creating a camp experience that is just right for each camper. Our six developmentally suited camp programs for boys and girls ages six to sixteen provide an array of activities tailored to the specific interests and abilities of each camper. These programs also feature exceptional leadership and counseling staff to ensure campers are having a safe and enriching experience. Blue Star is a caring and inclusive Jewish camp community and our campers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in camp life. Through our activities and programs, campers develop independence, self-esteem, and lasting friendships. At Blue Star, we recognize the importance of these formative years and strive to capture the attention of young people during this time when they are most open-hearted and likely to appreciate the power of friendship and self-discovery. At Blue Star, we create a unique summer camp experience that allows campers to make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. From exciting activities to meaningful moments, Blue Star provides campers with the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

Established in 1961, Camp Judaea has been providing these amazing experiences to children ages 7-15 for over fifty years! At Camp Judaea, our goal is to provide children with a safe and unique Jewish and Israel-centered summer experience. We offer a variety of activities that allow campers to explore their interests, expand their skills, and make lasting memories. Our loving and supportive environment allows campers to develop and transform in ways they never thought possible. We are proud to have been providing these amazing experiences to children for over fifty years!

Camp Kanuga is proud to be an American Camp Association-accredited camp. It is a place where campers learn valuable life skills in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance. At Camp Kanuga, campers are encouraged to explore their faith in a safe and loving Christian community. Our programs are designed to foster connection with Creation, the Creator, Community and Camper while building relationships and independence. With the support of our caring staff, campers have the opportunity to grow and transform while being part of something special and bigger than themselves.

During the summer camp season, families can enjoy a variety of activities that are tailored to their needs. The Retreat season at Tekoa offers families a chance to take a break from their busy lives and connect with nature. During this time, families can explore the outdoors, participate in activities such as fishing, hiking, and swimming, and take part in educational programs that focus on sustainability and conservation. At Tekoa, families can experience two unique and distinct seasons with a variety of activities to choose from. During the summer camp season, families can enjoy a variety of activities tailored to their needs. During the Retreat season, families can explore the outdoors and take part in educational programs that focus on sustainability and conservation. With a range of activities offered, Tekoa is the perfect place for families to make memories and create lasting memories.

Miriam has a passion for bringing creativity alive in others, and she works to do that every day. She does this through teaching, sharing, and selling her work. Miriam's background in medical illustration is the source of her creative energy, and she works with pastels, watercolors, and fibers to create her art. Her enthusiasm for sketching is so strong that she finds it more enjoyable than even the most relaxing activities like eating ice cream, sleeping, or doing real work. Miriam is an artist with a contagious good humor who will lead you on your journey to unlock the power of creative energy. She has a long-standing history of medical illustration, but has since extended her talents to the use of pastels, watercolors, and fibers. Her dedication to her craft is unparalleled, as she finds sketching even more enjoyable than activities like eating ice cream, sleeping, or doing real work. Miriam continues to work every day to bring creativity alive in as many people as possible.

At Releve Performing Arts Center, we understand how important it is for aspiring dancers to learn the proper technique and fundamentals required for success. That’s why we strive to provide a professional and fun environment for our students to learn and grow. Our “Dance Family” mindset is an integral part of what makes RPAC so special, giving our students and clients a place to call home. Beyond just the best possible dance experience, we’re committed to helping our students reach their full potential. We believe that the name Releve is a reflection of our purpose – to create a safe space for our students to reach beyond their limits and explore their talents. With our team of professional and caring staff, we’re proud to be helping our students learn and excel in the world of dance.

We understand the importance of providing a safe, clean, and fun environment for children and families alike. That’s why we are committed to maintaining a state-of-the-art facility that prioritizes the health and wellbeing of all children and staff. And with both owners present and accessible each week, Airborne truly is a family. We take tremendous pride in the lasting relationships we’ve formed over the years, with many of our instructors having worked with us for 15-25 years. At Airborne, we are passionate about providing a unique environment that gives children the opportunity to be active, learn, and have fun. We have created a refined curriculum designed to encourage children to explore, grow, and develop. Our experienced, passionate instructors are dedicated to fostering a positive environment and forming lasting relationships with children and families. We take pride in being part of the Airborne Family and helping to create a safe, clean space for children to thrive.

Henderson County is committed to enhancing the lives of its residents and visitors through a variety of recreational opportunities. Parks, programs, and events are designed to give residents and visitors the chance to experience leisure activities that provide enjoyment, health benefits, and a sense of community. The county offers a range of activities for people of all ages and interests, from outdoor sports and camping to arts and crafts. Parks are maintained for the benefit of the community and feature amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails. Local programs provide educational and cultural experiences, from art classes to summer camps. And special events such as festivals and concerts bring the community together to celebrate its heritage and enjoy the outdoors. With these resources, Henderson County aims to provide a fulfilling and enriching quality of life for all who visit or call it home.

At Camp Pinnacle, we believe that summer camp should be about more than just having fun. We strive for our Great 8 Outcomes to be learned through adventure, immersion in a close-knit and tech-free community, and interaction with outstanding role models. Studies have shown that experiences like Camp Pinnacle make children’s brains inherently more receptive to learning. Our campers benefit from engaging activities that emphasize life skills and encourage the development of 21st century skills. We focus on helping campers build confidence, resilience, and empathy while developing teamwork and problem solving. We provide an environment where campers can feel safe, make friends, and take risks in a supportive and encouraging setting.

At the Hendersonville Family YMCA, we provide a variety of fitness activities and community programs for our members and their families. Whether you’re looking for group exercise classes, personal training, swim lessons, or even just a place to meet new friends, we have something for everyone. Our membership includes access to great amenities such as a wellness center, indoor pool, and tennis courts. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the community through our various events and activities. Make the most of your family time by joining the Hendersonville Family YMCA today. With our variety of fitness and community building programs, you’ll be sure to find something you and your family will enjoy.