Wake Camp FAQs - Schoolhouse of Wonder

We know you probably have some questions about Schoolhouse and how things run in our Wake County programs. We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions (and their answers) here, but — as always — please feel free to call us at 919-477-2116 or email us at schoolhouse@schoolhouseofwonder.org.

Every Schoolhouse camp provides a unique environment of kindness, respect, and learning. Our camps have different themes each season, but they are all inspired by our underlying values. Our award-winning camps offer a low camper to staff ratio that allows a sense of freedom while providing a safe and nurturing environment.

Oh, and by day’s end, we’ll return your kids dirty, happy and tired. Guaranteed.

Wake County FAQ

Where are Wake summer camps held?

Wake summer camps are held in Umstead State Park. Drop Off and Pick Up will occur at the Reedy Creek entrance (2100 N. Harrison Ave, Cary, NC 27513) On I-40, travel 11 miles west of Raleigh, take the Harrison Avenue exit (Exit 287), and travel northeast into the park. Look for the Schoolhouse of Wonder sign, and our staff will greet you there.

We do offer some Track-Out camps at Harris Lake County Park. Harris Lake is located at 2112 County Park Dr, New Hill, NC 27562.

What is the difference between Whispering Pines and Loblolly?

Whispering Pines and Loblolly are two different locations within William B. Umstead State Park. They can both be found by entering the Reedy Creek Entrance. Whispering Pines is located at the old Whispering Pines camp and Loblolly can be found in the main parking lot. Campers at the two locations don’t join together for activities, nor do they have the same themes.

The Loblolly site is our original Umstead location and many campers love it! The biggest difference between the two sites is that Loblolly includes more hiking/longer treks.

Whispering Pines is also a couple minutes of a longer drive once you enter Umstead. It is imperative to our partnership that drivers observe the posted speed limit inside the park.

How will you keep my child safe while they are in your care?

Physical and emotional safety is always our first priority. We maintain safety in our camp community through:

Year-round safety training
Low camper to staff ratios
Constant vigilance
Hiring and maintaining an outstanding staff of responsible, caring, adult mentors

How much do Schoolhouse of Wonder camps cost?

Camp prices vary slightly depending on a number of factors, but generally follow this pattern:

One-Day Discovery Days – $84
Intersession camps for 5-12 year olds – $432
Summer camps for 5-6 year olds – $339
Aftercare for 5-6 year olds – $100
Summer camps for 7-12 year olds – $449

Do you offer any discounts?

Yes! Most programs are eligible for a discount when you register for two or more programs for the same child or siblings in the same household in the same order. We understand that it can get a little complicated when you’re adding different camps for different children. The good news is that the discounts automatically apply, so you don’t need to get too into the math side of things. Please note that discounts only apply to camps that are included in the same order.

Multi-camp: Did you add a camp to your cart? Did you add another? You will automatically receive a $20 discount off the cost of a second and any additional camp seat purchased in the same order (that don’t qualify for the sibling discount). This could apply to one child signing up for several camps, siblings signing up for partial-week camps or Discovery Days, or many other combinations. This discount can apply to full-week camps, partial-week camps, and Discovery Days.

Please note that it is possible to receive both of these discounts on the same order, though it is not possible to receive both of these discounts on the same camp. Here are some examples of how this works.

What are the hours of Schoolhouse of Wonder camps?

Track-Out Camps and Summer Camps for 7-12 year olds

Camp Week: Monday through Friday 9:00a to 5:00p.
Check In: 8:15a to 9:00a.
Pick Up: 5:00p to 5:30p.
Alternative Early Pick Up: 3:00p to 3:30p (advance notice required)
Family Circle: Last day of camp at 4:45p. You’re invited to bring a snack to share, meet staff, and peruse our Camp Store where you can find Schoolhouse t-shirts, steel striker kits, water bottles, buttons, necklaces and more.

Summer Camps for 5-6 years olds

Camp Week: Monday through Friday 9:00a to 3:00p.
Check In: 8:15a to 9:00a.
Pick Up: 3:00p to 3:30p.
Aftercare Pick Up: 5:00 to 5:30p
Family Circle: Last day of camp at 2:45p. You’re invited to bring a snack to share, meet staff, and peruse our Camp Store where you can find Schoolhouse t-shirts, steel striker kits, water bottles, buttons, necklaces and more.

What activities will my child participate in at Schoolhouse of Wonder?

Our camp themes change from season to season, so a new adventure will always be on the horizon. We do, however, utilize a number of core routines to ground our program and give our kids a sense of familiarity.

Opening and closing circles to promote community building and respect
Nature investigation and exploration
Games including Schoolhouse originals as well as some you may recognize from your childhood
Storytelling including traditional tales and true stories
Song time
Water time in creeks or rivers
Hikes, wanders, and rambles through the woods

How do I prepare my kid for camp?

Check out our Parent Handbook. For any additional questions, please call 919-477-2116 or email schoolhouse@schoolhouseofwonder.org.

What are the camp facilities?

At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we spend every possible moment out in the world. We do, however, have access to shelter in the case of dangerous weather or temperatures.

Are there scholarships available?

We understand that the cost of camp is a barrier for some families. Each year we partner with individuals, businesses, and community organizations to make scholarship funds available to as many families as possible. Scholarships are available for both campers and CITs. Please read more about our scholarship program here.

The camp I am interested in is already full; is it worth joining the waitlist?

We strongly encourage joining the waitlist. It isn’t unusual for camp seats to become available. We are also able to schedule additional staff and run additional groups in some instances when we know that there is interest far enough in advance.

How does the Dirty, Tired, Happy Guarantee work?

If for ANY reason your child decides that camp is not for them and chooses to leave camp before the end of the week, we’ll refund camp tuition for the remaining days. Guaranteed.

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