I attended Kahdalea for many years, and later worked as a junior counselor and then counselor. At first it was fun, and by the end of my stay as staff I was miserable, having realized how backwards this place is. I think the camps offer many benefits for young people like outdoor education, time away from social media and exposure to activities that they wouldn't have at home. However, I don't think these benefits negate the damage that can be done by bringing a child up in such a religiously conservative setting. Chapel services and daily prayer are required - whatever, plenty of kids have to do that in private school already (and those are the only families who can afford to go here). Male counselors at Chosatonga held talks for the female campers where they told us all about the evils and temptations of pornography and how their lives were ruined before they turned to Christ and then they found a beautiful, innocent wife who of course works at the camp too. Leaves everyone in tears - this seemed routine and I saw it multiple times over my time as both a camper and staff. And of course despite their sexual conservatism, I saw Anne and David allow a fellow camper to leave camp and go into town to go on a date. The hyper focus on relationships and male approval feels as though it's in opposition to all the confidence building exercises. As staff, this attitude became even more crystal clear. I was asked to not take my birth control pills at the nurse cart where campers could see me. At least they let me keep them I guess? While unpacking some boxes in the office and going over packing lists, David told me to stop right away so that he could get one of the boys over to do it. I guess a woman with years of retail experience can't handle a packing list for a few boxes of camping equipment. In my position as a counselor I felt powerless to introduce my campers to any perspective other than Anne and David's, and so many of them had already been indoctrinated into that thought process. The moment my heart broke for these children was one night in my cabin when one of my more critically thinking campers said something about homosexuality, and another camper piped up with "Well, if you're a lesbian you can just go be a nun." I was stunned, and it is a great regret of mine to this day that I did not step up and more forcefully shut down that type of talk. Along with the pathetic attitudes, the camp pays its staff nearly nothing and the camper fees are insane - going for the whole summer will run you nearly 10k. Why are parents paying this much for their kids to sleep in unconditioned, unsecured cabins and eat cafeteria food and be driven around in musty vans? I don't object to these conditions, but I do if I paid as much as I did for a semester at a private university. At the end of my summer as a counselor I walked away with about $300, having needed to take cash advances all summer to fuel my car, get groceries and visit a laundromat on my days off. Overall a waste of my summer but an enlightening (if not disappointing) lesson on the pitfalls of religion. I would suggest that Anne and David consider the privileged circumstances under which they practice their faith and open this camp up to people who are not like them (white, heterosexual, wealthy). Your spirituality should dictate how YOU live your lives, not what you demand of others. It is a shame that these camps do not practice what they preach and use their plentiful resources to support staff and encourage a more welcoming and open minded environment for children who are still growing and finding their way in the world. An absolute shame. read more

I've been a part of Camp Kahdalea and Chosatonga for as long as I can remember. Starting as a camper when I was just a kid, I then worked as a counselor during my college years, and since then, I make sure to visit at least once every couple of years. It's not just any camp for me; this place was a light in a childhood that had more than its fair share of challenges. Camp wasn't just an escape--it was the place that shaped me into who I am today. The brotherhood I found here, the love of God that was nurtured in me, and the deep connection to nature all played a massive role in my growth as a person and in my Christian faith. Kahdalea and Chosatonga didn't just teach me campfire songs or how to hit a bullseye with a bow and arrow. They taught me the real stuff--responsibility, love for others, and most importantly, a devotion to God that's been at the center of my life ever since. The staff here is second to none. They're professional, compassionate, and they make sure every kid feels seen and cared for. And their love doesn't just stop at the campers. As someone who cares deeply about animals, I've always been impressed by the stables here. The horses are treated with such incredible care--the kind you don't find at most places. It's clear that quality of life for these animals is a priority, and as someone who values that deeply, it speaks volumes about the kind of place this camp is. For anyone considering Camp Kahdalea and Chosatonga, I couldn't recommend it more. It's a place where faith, friendship, and adventure come together in a way that leaves a lifelong impact. I'm living proof of that. read more

I cannot say enough amazing things about this camp. It is truly a transformative place, and any family would be lucky to have their child spend a summer here. From the very first day, you can tell this isn't just another camp going through the motions--there's a genuine sense of purpose behind everything they do. The staff is incredible and attentive, putting the campers first in every decision, big or small. They strike that rare balance of being warm and approachable while still maintaining the structure and safety kids need to thrive. You can tell they aren't just there for a paycheck; they're invested in each child's growth and happiness, and it shows in the way campers light up around them. In a world where unstructured adventure in nature is becoming increasingly rare, where so many kids spend their summers indoors, glued to screens, this camp offers something different. It gives all kids, no matter their age, the chance to explore, take healthy risks, and just play in a way that feels increasingly hard to find these days. Watching children build confidence, make new friends, and reconnect with the outdoors is something every parent should get to see. If you're searching for a place that will challenge your child, nurture their independence, and give them memories that last well beyond the summer, this camp delivers on every front. I'd recommend it without hesitation. read more

This is an amazing summer camp, run by an awesome family. I feel like i need to share my experience. This might have been one of the most influential experiences of my life, the owner has been one of the most influential men in my life, I thank God that I was afforded the opportunity to attend Chosatonga and work for Dave. The family that runs this camp are amazing Christians, they live the faith ever day especially in their business practices. They are fair and honest, they care for their campers and treat them like family, and they give them some of the best experiences of their lives. The place is a little slice of heaven on earth. I have never seen, and the owners would never allow, someone to be ridiculed or bullied for any reason, Dave doesn't even allow the campers or staff to say 'shut up' or 'stupid'. They have very high standards to treat each person with love and dignity. When you walk into these camps you enter an atmosphere of love and graciousness, you feel completely included and feel like people want you to be there and be part of all the fun and adventure, and brotherhood/sisterhood. Lifelong friendships, marriages are the fruit of this, couples who met at these camps send their kids there. Awesome place. Thank God for it. And for the people that run it. It is life changing. read more

I had the privilege of working at Camp Kahdalea for three summers, and it was nothing short of transformative. The camp's emphasis on Christian core beliefs helped me reconnect and deepen my relationship with God in a way that I will always cherish. The environment is one of professional love, acceptance, and encouragement, making it a unique and uplifting place for both campers and staff. The dedicated staff create an atmosphere where every camper feels valued, supported, and inspired to grow--not just in skills and confidence, but also in faith and character. The program is thoughtfully designed to nurture each child's spiritual, emotional, and social development, which sets it apart from other camps. I look forward to sending my own children here in the future, knowing they will benefit greatly from the same positive and faith-filled experience I had. I highly recommend Camp Kahdalea to families seeking a nurturing, spiritually enriching summer for their kids. It's a place where lifelong memories are made and where young hearts are shaped with love and purpose. read more

This camp has left an impact on my life forever! I went as a camper and came back to serve on staff for two years. The camp community is one of the most welcoming and loving communities I have ever been a part of. The camp directors and staff truly care about each and every camper in such a unique and selfless way. I am grateful for the role models and friendships I have had at camp and I am still in touch to this day with the community. There is such an authentic joy at camp that is contagious. The outdoor experience is so authentic and will challenge you in the best way, to grow more confident in yourself, your faith, and your peers. It is in such a beautiful destination in the blue ridge mountains and the camp takes full advantage of exploring its beauty and learning wilderness skills. I am the person I am today because of my experiences at camp and the people who poured into me while I was there. I 100% recommend to anyone of any age who wants to experience a summer away in the mountains to grow in faith, community, and wilderness experience. read more

Highly Recommend both of these camps. My grandchildren had profound experiences because of the staff and environment at these camps. The counselors were carefully chosen and provided love, knowledge and encouragement that increased my grandson's attitude on so many levels. Their training and wisdom was evident. We can see and hear a new maturity in his life skills...especially in the way he is more understanding about the human experience. I'm especially grateful for his understanding of why he and/or his peers interact. He no longer feels like a victim when others say negative things to or about him. My grandson took his pain to the mountains and came back home with a new joy and self-appreciation. Chosatonga largely helped this to happen. My grandson went to the 2 week session last year and 5 week session this year. He is already planning to go to 5 week next year. If you read negative reviews about these camps, PLEASE call and speak with the staff. You will receive truthful and humble replies. God has His heart over these camps. read more

My life was truly transformed as a camper, counselor, and former Program Director at Camp Kahdalea. Every challenge I faced, whether a tough mt. biking trail, being in the camp play, or as an adult coaching, caring, and being a leader in bringing the power of play and authentic experiences to campers and staff alike, was rooted in the values and courage that I found in the Camp Directors and leadership team before me. I cannot think of a better place for kids (and young adults) to learn about authentic relationships, core values, AMAZING skill building in various mediums from archery to back-country camping, and how to navigate life with courage and hope than CKC. The leadership team provide intentional and terrific training to their staff to prepare them to care for so many children over the course of the summer. From safety (mentally and physically) to healthy eating habits, hygiene, and a strong commitment to fun, CKC takes great care in their mission and core values. read more

I went to this camp, my siblings went to this camp and later worked for it, and my children will go to this camp when they are old enough. The experiences are incredible and the people running it are very responsible and trustworthy. Kids learn how to live in the beautiful wilderness for a few months in the summer without TV and video games. Canoeing, hiking, camping, rock climbing, horse back riding, guitar, archery, etc etc are all available in a safe and supervised environment with people who love what they do. To the person with the bad review, half a story and no contact with the actual camp does not a useful review constitute. Also, if your friends were ER nurses not working, I'm wondering how many hipaa violations were made to find out the child's diagnosis and then have them posted for the world to see? Bottom line is, people who go to this camp and send their children there love it. read more

After working at Camp Kahdalea for two summers, I can say with confidence that there is nothing but love and support that comes from the Trufant family and the camp itself. I have taken so many life lessons, memories, and new skills away from my time with them. As a member of the barn staff, I was able to see first hand how riding and horsemanship skills can really transform these campers into the best versions of themselves. Whether it was their first time ever seeing a horse or they had previous riding experience, everyone was able to take on a personal challenge and make a furry friend! I loved being able to mentor these kids and show them how rewarding working with horses can be! I highly recommend Camp Kahdalea to anyone, as it was a life changing experience! read more

I spent 7 years at Kahdalea and it completely shaped who I am today. Camp practically saved my life and I would not want to imagine the person I would be without the amazing people at camp, some of whom remain my best friends 16 years later. Thank you Anne and David for the incredible work and fun that that you do. I cannot speak highly enough of camp and I can't wait until my kids are old enough to go. For 5 weeks out of the year you get a chance to have fun, get dirty and have awesome adventures while building your faith. It does not get any better than that. read more

The summer was my middle school son's third year attending, and it was as amazing as it always is. He is truly like a different child when he comes back to us ...so much more mature.... And honestly just filled with gratitude. It's a camp where they take adventure seriously... And get Kids out in the wild doing amazing things. 2 to 3 day overnight adventures. But the best thing about the camp is the leadership. They really care about getting to know your kid and walking with him or her through life. My son is 13 now and Hopes to attend until he goes to college read more

This camp is a wonderful wonderful place. It's a wonderful place to let go and just have fun! The kids learn so much and they make such great connections with other girls and boys from different states! The owners makes a point to be involved with the campers and are extremely interested in the campers' welfare and lives!! It's an absolutely phenomenal place!!! Here is an article written by an 8th grade student who went there with his school: http://www.stpauls-lakeview.org/2013/01/8th-grade-visits-camp-kahdalea-in-north-carolina/ read more

My favorite place to be!! This place uses challenge and adventure to help kids grow into awesome little people. It also encourages kids and adults alike to constantly grow in faith and be Christlike in all they do. I've found no other place that does so much to pull out the good in everyone there. This camp has had such a huge impact on my life and was a big inspiration for me to dive back into my faith. read more

This camp is absolutely amazing. The counselors are well qualified and they are so loving on the kids. They set great examples and inspire the children who attend to become positive contributing members of society. I have attended camp 6 years as a counselor, a Junior counselor, a JC and on retreat with friends. It's truly a blessed place. read more

"Almost Heaven" One of the few communities left in the country where a child can experience the joy of authentic friendship and impactful mentoring. A place where challenge and adventure are embraced as a beautiful and necessary part of life. Camps Kahdalea and Chosatonga shaped me into the man I am today. God lives here! read more