A.R.E. Camp Rural Retreat VA
What it's Like? - Arriving at Camp

A.R.E. Camp is located on a farm in Southwestern Virginia. Getting to A.R.E. Camp involves driving down a mile of dirt road, passing through two gates and a cow pasture. This can be a bit unnerving, especially if the cows are standing in the road. However, the scenery alone is worth the trip.

Once you get past the second gate, veer right to park in front of the dining hall or the director's cabin. Someone will probably come talk to you soon after you get out of the car. If not, go ahead and walk up to the picnic table. Someone will be there to check you in and help you get settled. We can tell you where you're sleeping, show you around, and even help set up your tent!

You should tell us how you plan to get to camp on your arrival/departure form, which will be sent to you after you register and is also available online. If you are flying to camp, there is an airport pick-up/drop-off fee of $35 one-way or $60 total (per family). The closest airport is Roanoke Regional Airport, about 2 hours away from the camp. Please schedule your flights to arrive as close to noon as possible.

Can I arrive early, or stay late?
The small break between sessions is very important for the staff to prepare for the upcoming programs. For this reason, it can be awkward if participants arrive ahead of schedule. If you have a long drive which you want to do Saturday, there are several hotels in Wytheville, about half an hour away from camp. If there are special circumstances, you should contact the camp administrator to make arrangements.

The first day of camp is pretty unstructured, to give people time to get settled. Participants should try to arrive after 2:00 p.m., when the session officially opens. The first scheduled event on opening day is dinner, which happens at 5:30 rather than the usual 6:15. We'll ring a bell to announce it. (If you arrive later than that, don't worry--we'll still feed you!) Around 7:15, after dinner and kitchen clean-up, we'll have an orientation to the camp, to explain all the little details.

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For more information, contact
Karen Kell
A.R.E. Youth and Family Coordinator
call 757-428-3588 ext. 7166, - email karen
or Suebee Sheldon
A.R.E. Youth and Family Manager
215 67th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
or call, 757-428-3588, ext. 7162, - email suebee