Specialty Camps

Cloverbud Camp

Open to children ages 6-8, Cloverbud Camp is specifically designed for campers (and parents) not yet ready for the full week of a residential camping experience.  The length of the stay is shorter, and the staff-to-camper ratio is greater. Of course, campers still participate in canoeing, swimming, archery, climbing wall, horseback riding, and environmental classes, as well as a host of evening programs.   As many children's first taste of "sleepaway camp", staff take great care to create a caring community in which each Cloverbud camper can grow in confidence and begin to enjoy the fun and camaraderie of camp. 
 

Leader-In-Training  (L.I.T.)   

Formerly the C.I.T. program, this opportunity was developed to help guide older youth (15-17)as they hone and develop their leadership skills.  The program runs concurrently - and intertwined with - the weekly residential summer camp.  There are six spaces available during each session of camp, three for boys and three for girls.    Assigned to a staff mentor for the week, Leaders-in-Training spend part of their time working on program set-up and "behind-the-scenes" details.  They also participate in specific training exercises, teambuilding, high ropes, and other leadership opportunities.  Since L.I.T.'s are depended on for full & responsible participation throughout the week, they must go through an application process prior to being accepted for the program.   

Whitewater Adventures
For campers, ages 14-17, seeking the next level of adventure, beyond that which occurs in the Trekker program. Participants receive instruction on paddling techniques and water safety on the lake at Penn, then hone their skills canoeing down the Mayo River. The pinnacle of this trip will be a guided whitewater adventure, rafting the French Broad River in western North Carolina. Participants must be in good physical condition and be able to swim. 

Check out more information about the French Broad River
 

There are other Specialty Camps available at North Carolina 4H Camps across the state.  

 For a full list of opportunities and details, check out the

2008 Specialty Camp Brochure.

Specialty Camp Leadership
The staff-to-camper ratio for all specialty camps is one-to-six.  Programs are coed and staff provide full, 24-hour supervision for all campers.  Staff are highly trained, energetic and enthusiastic about both programs and participants.  Staff members are chosen with an emphasis on experience, attitude and work ethic, and are hired both locally and internationally. This diverse and qualified group also benefits from access to the best training on youth development techniques and programming in the state. 

Facilities, Equipment & Food

When on site, campers sleep in modern cabins with multiple indoor showers and restroom facilities.  Campers bring their own sleeping bags or bed linens, as well as clothing and toiletries.  Betsy-Jeff Penn provides all the specialized equipment needed for all aspects of each specialty camp.  Nutritious, balanced menus are served family-style in Penn's dining hall, three times a day.

Registration

All North Carolina youth are welcome at specialty camp sessions. 

To get in on the fun for 2008, follow these simple steps:

1. Select the session dates that interest you from the list above.

2. Download and complete the Camp Registration Form, then mail it with payment   

        directly to the Betsy-Jeff Penn 4H Center.  Logistical details, as well as all the

        necessary paperwork, will then be sent to you directly from camp.