About This Camp

Valley Haven Camp & Retreat Center is a gospel-centered Christian camp located on 175 acres of beautiful, wooded land in Hickory, NC, featuring winding creeks, open fields, and stunning mountain views. The camp’s mission is to provide a peaceful place of rest where young people experience renewal in Jesus Christ, with programming that focuses on His Gospel, Cross, Grace, and Kingdom. Valley Haven offers completely free summer camp experiences for under-served youth in the Catawba Valley Region,

Key Highlights

  • Completely free camp with full scholarships for all campers
  • Gospel-centered Christian environment focused on spiritual growth and renewal
  • 175-acre beautiful facility with diverse activities from water sports to hiking to creative arts

Special Features

  • Gospel-centered Christian programming
  • Located on 175 acres with natural features (creeks, fields, mountain views)
  • Completely free for under-served youth with full scholarship model
  • 1:5 counselor-to-camper ratio for personalized attention
  • Age-specific sessions for elementary, middle, and high school students
  • Spring-fed pool with water slides
  • Residential-style camp with day camp schedule
  • Lunch provided daily

Activities

Swimming/Water Games with slides and rope swingsGame Room (ping pong, foosball, basketball, cornhole, pool, carpet ball)Multi-Purpose Turf CourtCraft TimesGaGa PitBoating (paddle boats and kayaks)HayridesFishingIn Ground TrampolinesTrail HikingField Games (capture the flag, tag, kickball)SoccerVolleyballMovie Nightmores”,

Parent Considerations

  • Faith-based camp with gospel-centered programming – ensure alignment with family values
  • Requires Bible as part of packing list – indicates religious component
  • Modest swimwear requirement – reflects conservative dress code expectations
  • 5-day overnight stay away from home – good for campers comfortable with extended separation
  • Active wear requirement suggests physically engaging activities
  • Medication management – parents must ensure proper documentation and administration
  • Free program specifically targets under-served youth – verify eligibility requirements
  • Limited information on specific activity types and daily schedule