Happy’s Farm Summer Camp offers an immersive “Discovering Yourself Through Barnyard Adventures” experience that combines educational farm activities with engaging cowboy and cowgirl-themed adventures. Founded in 2007 by Rhonda Stirewalt, a former science and math teacher, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization provides school-age children with hands-on learning opportunities centered around animal care, farm experiences, and Wild West exploration. The camp’s mission is to help children understandHappy’s Farm Summer Camp offers an immersive “Discovering Yourself Through Barnyard Adventures” experience that combines educational farm activities with engaging cowboy and cowgirl-themed adventures. Founded in 2007 by Rhonda Stirewalt, a former science and math teacher, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization provides school-age children with hands-on learning opportunities centered around animal care, farm experiences, and Wild West exploration. The camp’s mission is to help children understand they are loved, important, and capable through positive, interactive learning experiences in a welcoming western-themed atmosphere.
The camp operates as a flexible day program with full-day (7:00 AM – 6:00 PM) and half-day options (7:00 AM – 12:30 PM or 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM), running from May 22 through August 6, 2025. Beyond the summer program, Happy’s Farm also offers a year-round “Barnyard Adventures After School Program” for continued engagement throughout the school year. All programs feature inclusive pricing with no registration fees, and meals are fully covered—breakfast, lunch, snacks, and snow cones are included in the daily rate, making it an excellent value for families.
The farm-based setting at 985 Parks Road in Salisbury, NC provides an authentic educational environment where children engage in animal interactions, learn about American history and the Wild West, participate in cowboy and cowgirl activities, and develop a deeper understanding of farm life and animal husbandry. With a 4.8-star rating and a commitment to creating positive youth experiences, Happy’s Farm stands out as a unique, affordable, and enriching summer option for school-age children in the Charlotte area.
Special Features
Farm-based educational program with western theme
Founded by former science and math teacher
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Flexible full-day and half-day scheduling options
All meals and snacks included in daily rate
No registration fee
Extended care hours (7 AM – 6 PM)
Year-round after school program available
Animal-based learning experiences
North Carolina equine activity liability waiver applies
Activities
Animal careAnimal interactionsBarnyard adventuresCowboy and cowgirl activitiesEducational farm programsEducational programsExploring the Wild WestLearning about American history and hardships
Parent Considerations
Registration requires printed form to be mailed, dropped off, or emailed (no online registration)
North Carolina equine activity liability waiver required (Chapter 99E of the North Carolina Statutes)
Counselor ratios not specified for any programs
Farm-based setting may require transportation considerations
Equine activities present – parents should ensure comfort with horse/animal interactions
School age children (specific age range not specified)
Cost:
$15-25 per day depending on program length (half-day $15, full-day $25); no registration fee; breakfast, lunch, snacks, and snow cones included
Location:
985 Parks Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146
Schedule:
May 22 – August 6, 2025 (summer camp); Year-round after school program available; Daily hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (full day) or 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM / 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM (half-day options)