The Merrie-Woode Values: Wilderness and The Outdoors

July 2, 2026

Wilderness and the Outdoors: Spending time in undisturbed natural settings helps girls develop a sense of awe for God’s creation, of discovery, and of their own potential.

One of the things that makes Merrie-Woode so special is the opportunity girls have to spend their summers immersed in the beauty of the outdoors. Whether they're exploring a trail, paddling down a river, gathering around a campfire, or simply taking in the view of Old Bald, campers develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them, a sense of adventure, and the confidence that comes from doing hard things.


Over the course of 108 summers, Merrie-Woode has remained committed to helping girls connect with the natural world. Through hikes, whitewater river trips, backpacking expeditions, caving, rock climbing, horseback riding, campouts, and many of our Mountaineering and Boating trips, generations of campers have discovered both the excitement of adventure and the rewards of stepping outside their comfort zones. Whether they are spending the night on the Chattooga, hiking to a beautiful overlook, or learning new skills on the water, these experiences quickly become some of the most memorable parts of camp.


Merrie-Woode's founder, Dammie Day, recognized the unique friendships that are formed when girls spend time together in nature. In her 1929 Christmas letter, Dammie wrote,

"No bond could be stronger than a mutual love of open skies, moonlight trails, tumbling water, and the soft fragrance of the woods. We have built campfires together and have felt the common joy of wood-smoke and burning leaves, and we have, around these fires, sung with the stars and believed in the beauty of life."



Nearly than 100 years later, campers continue to experience that same sense of wonder and connection.


Nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Merrie-Woode is surrounded by opportunities for adventure. This session alone, campers have paddled the Nantahala, Tuckaseegee, and Chattooga Rivers, explored the trails of Panthertown, and hiked to Bridal Veil Falls (with some CMW branded lunch!). Whether they're spending the day on the water, hitting the trail with friends, or discovering a new favorite spot in the woods, campers learn to appreciate the beauty around them while gaining confidence and independence along the way.

The beauty of Camp doesn't end when the sun goes down. Some of the most memorable moments happen in the evening, whether it's sitting around a campfire, listening to the sounds of the woods, or looking up at a sky full of stars. Away from city lights and daily distractions, campers have the chance to slow down and appreciate the world around them. In a world filled with technology, busy schedules, and constant noise, these moments outdoors are more valuable than ever. Here at Merrie-Woode, campers unplug, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple things, like the rush of a river, a mountain view, or a conversation with friends around a campfire. Along the way, they build confidence, form lasting friendships, and discover a little more about themselves. It is these moments, both big and small, that make summers under Old Bald so special.

Chug-a-wump, 

Robin & Frost 

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June 30th

July 1, 2026
We have been having the best time beneath Old Bald during Main Session! Our activities are well underway, and our campers are making the most of every moment at Camp. We wanted to give you a glimpse into the day-to-day happenings in some of our activities. In Riding, campers learned all about the important work that happens before getting in the saddle, including grooming, tacking, and preparing their horses for a ride. Over at the tennis courts, campers have been working to pass levels, with many setting their sights on reaching the highest level: Ace! In our visual arts classes, campers are beginning their first projects of the summer. In Stained Glass, campers have been learning the process from start to finish as they plan, design, and begin creating beautiful pieces.

June 28th

June 28, 2026
One of our favorite evening programs made its return this week… Minute to Win It! With 60 seconds on the clock, campers, JCs, and even staff took on a whole lineup of hilarious challenges. The night was hosted by our wonderful Evening Program Princesses, with the help of a few of our JCs, and it did not disappoint. We kicked things off with a game that seemed simple: tossing a ping pong ball into a stack of cups. The catch? Each time you made it, you had to stack another cup on top, balancing it on the ball and making your tower taller, wobblier, and much harder to manage.

June 26th

June 27, 2026
Our 5-week session is off and running! Between new campers, returning faces, and all our favorite traditions, Camp already feels full of energy as everyone settles in under Old Bald. We are so fortunate to have 24 Junior Counselors this session! With a group that size, they’re split into two groups and rotate between learning JC curriculum and helping teach activities. They also each have buddy cabins! When a counselor is on her day off, a JC steps in to spend time with the cabin. It is always so much fun to watch the campers learn who their JC is!  With a group this big, no amount of team bonding is ever enough! One of the best (and funniest) ways we’ve found to connect as a cabin is through the low ropes course. Over the past few days, both JC groups have had the chance to take on the course, practicing teamwork, building trust, and sharing plenty of laughs along the way.
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