Camp Carysbrook
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2025 Camp Carysbrook Handbook

2025 Camp Carysbrook Handbook for Camper Families/Caregivers

ACCESS THE 2025 HANDBOOK

We are very excited to have you with us to celebrate our 102nd anniversary summer! This packet is filled with TONS of information and policies you will need to know for camp so make sure you read through it all and mark your calendar for important deadlines. We want to ensure that your camper has a wonderful camp experience so please prepare your campers for their time away from home, whether it is their first summer or not!

Talk with your campers prior to camp. Ask if they have any questions about what camp will be like. Tell them that you are excited for them to have a great week; focus on the FUN they will have not on how much you will miss each other. Let them know that you have confidence in their independence.

A buffet lunch is served between 1-2pm. Dinner is served at 6pm, so campers need to be content through the afternoon.

Help your camper know how to take care of their own personal hygiene. Some younger campers are used to a lot of help with personal hygiene including brushing their teeth and showering. Because each counselor is responsible for 5-7 campers, each camper will need to be able to care for their own basic needs. Bathtubs are not available at camp so everyone uses showers. Please help your camper to learn how to do these things independently before they leave for camp.

Make sure your camper knows where all the important things are in their luggage. It is hard to have fun when you cannot find dry socks on a rainy day. To avoid lost and found, be sure your camper can repack their belongings into their luggage and make sure EVERYTHING is CLEARLY LABELED WITH FIRST & LAST NAME (not just initials).

If after reading this packet you find you have more questions, concerns or your camper has specific needs (including dietary restrictions), please contact us at 540-382-1670.

Paperwork — IMPORTANT!

By May 15th, you need to complete the following paperwork in your CampMinder Camp InTouch account.

  • Camper Healthcare Recommendations (Health Form 2) This is a Physician’s Release. Make sure it has your physician’s signature (refer your Camp InTouch profile which can be printed to accompany Health Form 2 for your appointment). Camp Carysbrook requires this ACA recommended form specific to the overnight camp experience and NOT a sport’s or other physical.
  • Copy of current insurance card
  • Copy of current immunization records
  • Camp Carysbrook Camper Code of Conduct and other waivers

*In order for your camper to attend camp, a current Health History-Physician’s Release must be on file in your Camp InTouch account. This form must be signed by a physician within 12 months of the beginning of the camper’s camp session. We cannot allow any camper to stay at camp without this form as well as the MESH form if applicable.

Things to DO before May 15th:

  • Review your online registration and update any info including the Activity Release signature online
  • Add any money for the Camp Store or other extras to your camper’s account online

Camp Carysbrook reserves the right to apply a $250 late fee to incomplete accounts for missing paperwork after May 15th. If your camper physical can only be scheduled after this date for insurance purposes, please contact Erika.

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Memories and Reflections of Camp Carysbrook

“This summer that I’ve spent working at Camp Carysbrook has easily been the best summer of my life so far. It’s a truly incredible experience as you watch young girls be themselves in a place where no one judges, gossips or argues.”
Claire CarlinStaff, 2015
“Our daughter has gone to Carysbrook for 3 summers now and each year my wife and I come away more impressed with all that the camp has to offer. She has built great friendships that persist throughout the year while camp is out.”
Jeremy HellmanParent
“Carysbrook brings out the very best in my daughter. She feels loved, and she feels confident to take all kinds of risks.”
Ellen CarverParent
“This past summer I spent at Camp Carysbrook was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Deciding to apply for this job was the best decision I have ever made, I had the absolute best summer of my life. I can’t wait until next year.”
Lucy MullerStaff, 2014
“I just spent 8 weeks of my summer in the most magical place in the world. Nights are spent cuddled around a fire with campers and friends alike, and girls are challenged to grow and find themselves, while always being accepted for who they are. Here, life is simpler and makes more sense.”
Abby Worth-JonesStaff 2014
“I went to Carysbrook over 50 years ago! The Prestons ran the camp then. It was a transformative time for me, and I have loved the mountains ever since…what a magical time it was!”
Bridget Ritter
“Camp Carysbrook is a safe place to try new things without fear of failure. Every summer left me with a fortified sense of confidence.”
Frannie McCorkleFormer Camper and Counselor
“There is a place at Carysbrook for all girls – bold, shy, athletic, musical and those who can’t carry a tune. Camp Carysbrook encourages campers to believe and trust in themselves and discover their unique abilities.”
Toni M. Baughman
“Over the years as a parent of campers, it has become increasingly clear how the Carysbrook experience influences the empowerment of girls and the paths they choose.”
Jean SchlichterParent
“I met my most cherished friends at camp, had experiences that I would have never experienced outside of Carysbrook (riflery, archery, rappelling, caving….) and had an opportunity to be independent in a safe setting.”
Brooks Garris LivelyFormer Camper and Parent
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campcarysbrook

A summer to remember -
Camp Carysbrook for Girls
Since 1923 #summer2remember

2️⃣5️⃣ ‘til summer 2025! ✨⏱️☀️ 2️⃣5️⃣ ‘til summer 2025! ✨⏱️☀️🌲
102nd Summer Staff Alert: HANNAH POURANI Expedit 102nd Summer Staff Alert:

HANNAH POURANI

Expeditions Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Monaghan, Ireland
🐘 Currently: Studying Communications, Advertising and Marketing at Ulster University Belfast
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: The warm, welcoming and exciting environment, the close-knit and enthusiastic staff community 
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Communication, teamwork, keeping calm under pressure, motivating others
🐘 Most excited for: Organizing Expeditions in camp, helping campers try new things and branch out of their comfort zone, creating an environment where challenge meets fun, whether it’s through team-building hikes or overnight camp-outs, growing more as a leader, trying water sports

“I am so proud to be a member of the Camp Carysbrook staff team because it’s a wonderful opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact on campers’ lives. Being part of a longstanding tradition is so meaningful and I am delighted that I’ve been granted the opportunity to be a part of it. I couldn’t help wanting to be a part of this wonderful community!”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
102nd Summer Staff Alert: ASHLEIGH WALKINSHAW W 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

ASHLEIGH WALKINSHAW

Wilderness Trips Coordinator; Asst. Activity Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Auckland, New Zealand
🐘 Currently: Working for a New Zealand-made apparel company
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: Rustic outdoor environment, the camp’s history, the opportunity to be part of a great all-girls community
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Empathy, enthusiasm, organization, teamwork, engagement
🐘 Most excited for: Exploring the outdoor environment alongside the campers, especially on hikes and caving trips, experiencing the joy of summer camp, being a part of camp traditions, creating an amazing summer for the campers

“I am proud to be part of a team that positively impacts girls and helps them to learn new skills and grow as people. I can’t wait to experience camp life and the outdoor environment at Carysbrook.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
My Mother kept a garden, a garden of the heart, Sh My Mother kept a garden,
a garden of the heart,
She planted all the good things
that gave my life its start.
She turned me to the sunshine
and encouraged me to dream,
Fostering and nurturing
the seeds of self-esteem...
And when the winds and rain came,
she protected me enough-
But not too much because she knew
I’d need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good example
always taught me right from wrong-
Markers for my pathway
that will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother’s garden.
I am her legacy-
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me.
-Unknown

Happy Mother’s Day to all the selfless women who work so hard to tend the gardens that make this world blossom in any and all circumstances. In appreciation of you today and always! 💐💕
102nd Summer Staff Alert: SARA GONZALEZ Head of 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

SARA GONZALEZ

Head of Nature

🐘 Originally from: Madrid, Spain / Aberdeen, Scotland
🐘 Currently: Studying Medicine at the University of Edinburgh
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: The opportunity to be immersed in an unplugged environment, the beautiful outdoor landscape and the rustic vibe
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Communication, mentorship, adaptability, determination
🐘 Most excited for: Making the most of the incredible surroundings at camp for fun, hands-on activities at Nature; exploring the lake, river, the mountains and all the hidden gems at Carysbrook; learning more about the geography and biodiversity of Virginia; leading hikes

“I feel honoured to have been given the opportunity to support Camp Carysbrook in their goal to help young girls find themselves and their confidence.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
Same Carysbrook magic, 102 summers and counting ☀️🌲⛺️✨#tbt #summer2remember #1923tilForever
“If I had my life to live over, I’d dare to ma “If I had my life to live over, I’d dare to make more mistakes next time. I’d relax, I would limber up. I would be sillier than I have been this trip. I would take fewer things seriously. I would take more chances. I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers. I would eat more ice cream and less beans. I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but l’d have fewer imaginary ones.

You see, I’m one of those people who lived sensibly and sanely, hour after hour, day after day. Oh, l’ve had my moments, and if I had to do it over again, l’d have more of them. In fact, l’d try to have nothing else. Just moments, one after another, instead of living so many years ahead of each day. I’ve been one of those persons who never goes anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a raincoat and a parachute. If I had to do it again, I would travel lighter than I have.

If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. I would go to more dances. I would ride more merry-go-rounds. I would pick more daisies.”

-Nadine Stair
102nd Summer Staff Alert: MEG MCAULIFFE Swim In 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

MEG MCAULIFFE

Swim Instructor / Lifeguard

🐘 Originally from: Manchester, England
🐘 Currently: First year history student at Loughborough University
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: Strong and tight knit community due to the smaller camp size, the emphasis on female empowerment, opportunities to make new connections with people from around the world, being able to spend lots of time in nature
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Adaptability, teamwork/ collaboration, mentorship, ability to stay calm under pressure
🐘 Most excited for: Having fun at the dock playing different games and competitions, making new friends, cooling off in the lake, campfires and all the unique camp activities

“I am proud of the impact that I am going to have on younger girls’ lives and the memories that I am going to help them create.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
🌿 Camp Carysbrook Healthcare Positions Still Av 🌿 Camp Carysbrook Healthcare Positions Still Available! (1 - 7 week contracts) 🌿

Help us keep campers healthy and happy! Seeking caring and qualified professionals to build out our 2025 team! If you’re a nurse, recent nursing school graduate, or hold other certifications (WFR, EMT, etc.), we’d love to hear from you!

✅ Work in a fun, rewarding environment
✅ Competitive compensation + room & board
✅ Create lifelong memories with an amazing community

✨ This is a fantastic opportunity to spend the summer in the beautiful outdoors while ensuring our campers stay happy, healthy, and safe. You’ll be part of a supportive team, making a meaningful difference in girls’ lives—all while soaking up the magic of camp!

➡️ Interested or know someone who’d be a great fit? Send us a message or head to our website to learn more! (Link in bio)

#summer2remember #CampNurse #HealthcareJobs #SummerJobs
102nd Summer Staff Alert: EMILY SMITH Riding In 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

EMILY SMITH

Riding Instructor

🐘 Originally from: Exeter, England
🐘 Currently: Studying Fine Art at Exeter College
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: The nurturing, all-girls community, the legacy of the women and girls that created this beautiful environment, the opportunity to experience different cultures and landscapes
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Empathy, adaptability, responsibility, growth mindset
🐘 Most excited for: Helping campers reach their goals and feel included and valued; camp traditions like the 4th of July; working hard and contributing to this unique community

“I am so proud to be part of the Camp Carysbrook team and feel honoured to be a part of this community. I can’t wait to inspire and foster growth in the hearts and minds of the next generation of women. Let’s make this the best summer to remember!”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
102nd Summer Staff Alert: GRÁINNE MC KERNAN Ph 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

GRÁINNE MC KERNAN

Photography Counselor

🐘 Originally from: County Monaghan, Ireland
🐘 Currently: Studying Communication, Advertising and Marketing at Ulster University in Belfast
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: Strong sense of community, opportunity for personal growth, beautiful surroundings
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Initiative, collaboration, adaptability, communication, creative problem-solving
🐘 Most excited for: Creating and capturing unforgettable camp moments; fostering campers’ authenticity and self-expression; learning camp traditions (singing around the campfire, toasting marshmallows, 4th of July, celebrating her birthday); swimming, hikes, trying out climbing; meeting campers and fellow leaders from across the world; developing skills that will serve both personal and professional development

“I’ve wanted to take part in Camp America for years, and Camp Carysbrook feels like the perfect fit. I am proud to contribute to the long tradition of both growth and creating memories for a lifetime. I am also proud to contribute to an all-girls camp with a core focus on empowerment and building a supportive community.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
Every splash, hike, and starlit night at camp remi Every splash, hike, and starlit night at camp reminds us why this planet’s worth protecting. Because how could we not love this wild, wonderful summer home? 🌎🌱💙 #EarthDayEveryDay #LoveWhereYouLive #summer2remember
102nd Summer Staff Alert: LUCY BREMNER Head of 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

LUCY BREMNER

Head of Climbing

🐘 Originally from: Somerset, England
🐘 Currently: Taking a gap year before studying Architecture at Cardiff University in the fall
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: The spirit of the camp, the idyllic setting, the opportunity to be away from technology and to empower girls, the friendliness of the other staff members
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Organization, awareness, risk management, positive outlook
🐘 Most excited for: Introducing campers to new climbing games on the wall to build skills while having fun, seeing campers improve their climbing ability during their time at camp, exploring the Appalachian mountains

“I’m proud to be a part of a team that shows young girls how strong they really are, that allows them to spend time outside and away from social media.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
“Be faithful in small things because it is in th “Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” -Mother Theresa

Happy Easter from all of us at Camp Carysbrook! 🌸🌿
< 2 months til summer 1️⃣0️⃣2️⃣!!! #Fr < 2 months til summer 1️⃣0️⃣2️⃣!!! #FriYay #CarysbrookCountdown #summer2remember 🙌🌲☀️
“Here you are! In the sacred present. I can’t “Here you are! In the sacred present. I can’t heal you—or anyone—but I can celebrate your choice to dismantle the prison in your mind, brick by brick. You can’t change what happened, you can’t change what you did or what was done to you. But you can choose how you live now. My precious, you can choose to be free.” -Edith Eger

Chag Pesach Sameach from all of us at Camp Carysbrook!
Why not? 🌲✨🪵🌿🫶 Why not? 🌲✨🪵🌿🫶
Nothing beats a #summer2remember ⛺️☀️🌲✨⛰️
102nd Summer Staff Alert: ANA RUIZ Head of Arch 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

ANA RUIZ

Head of Archery

🐘 Originally from: Bilbao, Spain
🐘 Currently: Studying early childhood education at university and classical ballet at a conservatory
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: the amazing opportunity to grow and learn in a beautiful environment with a wonderful community 
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Empathy, positive outlook, organization, engagement
🐘 Most excited for: Having fun, encouraging campers to gain confidence at archery and beyond, trying every activity, developing new leadership skills, learning about different cultures, meeting new people, enjoying being abroad

“I am excited to be part of the team because it gives me the opportunity to help campers have a memorable summer while they grow, develop new skills, and build confidence. I look forward to creating an environment where they can learn and have fun.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
102nd Summer Staff Alert: ARIADNA AILIN ROQUE HE 102nd Summer Staff Alert: 

ARIADNA AILIN ROQUE HERNÁNDEZ

Kitchen Support Staff

🐘 Originally from: Puebla, Mexico
🐘 Currently: Studying finance at Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
🐘 Why Camp Carysbrook: Supportive environment, alignment with values, camp history, opportunities for growth and stepping outside comfort zone
🐘 Key skills/contributions: Problem-solving under pressure, flexibility, communication, growth mindset
🐘 Most excited for: the atmosphere in the kitchen (working as a team, learning new skills and facing each day with enthusiasm), helping make every meal a special moment, trying new activities and exploring the areas around camp

“I feel deeply grateful and fortunate to join this camp because, from my first contact with the team, it was evident that it is an extraordinary place where togetherness, teamwork, and conviviality are valued. These principles align perfectly with my values, and I am excited to be part of a space where girls can grow, develop, and enjoy an unforgettable experience together. It fills me with pride to join the staff at Camp Carysbrook, especially in its 102nd year of history. Knowing that I am contributing to such a long and meaningful tradition is truly special. Although this will be my first time at camp, I am excited to be part of a team that values the outdoor experience. In addition, I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute my efforts in the kitchen to make each day at camp even more memorable for everyone. I am excited to learn, grow, and be part of this amazing community.”

#staff2025 #summer2remember #HAIL 💜
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Latest News

  • Lifetime and Legacy Member Photo Book DiscountNovember 1, 2023 - 11:08 am
  • Accommodations & Capacity Update: 100th Anniversary ReunionFebruary 14, 2023 - 2:56 pm
  • 100th Anniversary Alumnae ReunionSeptember 18, 2022 - 4:27 pm

Contact Us


3500 Camp Carysbrook Road
Riner, VA 24149
540-382-1670
info@campcarysbrook.com

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