While WNC is the hub of overnight summer camps in the state, Henderson County is home to 20 of those camps, comprising one-third of the total camps in a four-county area and a $110 million economic impact.

Henderson County Chamber of Commerce President Bob Williford said the economic impact is  due to more than the camps themselves. As the parents of campers often explore the area during pick-up and drop-off times, they spend time and money at hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions in the county.

“The impact spreads farther than you may see,” Williford said. “The airport gets busy with campers flying in, businesses like Mail Box & Pack see increased shipments as parents ship trunks to camps, local construction companies are often working on updates and repairs at camps, local foodservice distributors serve our camps, and local laundry services are used for camp linens. Camps partner with area businesses like Nantahala Outdoor Company. Even local ice cream shops are frequented by campers when they get special rewards for things like the cleanest cabins.”

Summer camps also contribute to a hidden “green” industry and act as conservationists of the land, as many are positioned on several acres of property that cannot be developed. Several camps frequent state parks and forests, providing support and creating more advocates for the County’s natural areas.

The North Carolina Youth Camp Association was formed in Henderson County, according to Williford. This organization helps foster cooperativeness within the camp industry, expand public understanding of camp programs, and represent the industry with policy makers at local, state, and federal levels. With 45 member camps located in the WNC region, the NCYCA plays a major role in the region’s summer camp industry.

A variety of businesses have been established in the region because their owners attended a WNC summer camp and fell in love with the area. Williford said the owners of Hendersonville Outfitters, Three Chopt Sandwich Shoppe, and other restaurants and outdoor recreation businesses were introduced to the community through their camp experience.

“You’ll find them all over,” Williford said. “So many leaders in our business community came here in their youth, enjoyed their time, and made good memories. Now they have become an integral part of our community.”

Community leaders are also advocates for the industry. Former Henderson County Commissioner Chuck McGrady was an owner of Falling Creek Camp in Zirconia and has served as the national vice president of the American Camp Association, and has shown support of the camp industry and general health, wellness, and community development. He is a past president of Conserving Carolina, Friends of DuPont Forest, and Muddy Sneakers — all centered around the impact of outdoor recreation and summer camp in the area.

The Henderson County Chamber’s annual Camp Field Day event is held in support of the County’s summer camp industry. Many of the area camps participate because it introduces the business community to the camp and the amenities and activities offered. During each Camp Field Day event, local speakers discuss the social and economic impact of the industry before participants compete in camp games like rock wall climbing, canoe racing, tent building, and arts and crafts activities.

“Summer camps are really a big deal here,” Williford said. “You can easily tell when camps have a drop-off or pick-up day just by looking downtown. Families will be walking along Main Street with their kids in camp shirts, and there will be huge lines at many restaurants. The whole town is busy on these days. Camp impacts ripple through our entire community.”