Camp Facilities
When you stay at a SOAR summer camp, you get a fun and unique stay, from the activities to the facilities and accommodations!
Our campus & facilities vary by location, from rustic cabins to tents. Plus, every location has a bathhouse and natural space for outdoor activities and recreational activities.
North Carolina
Our Balsam Base is located in Balsam, NC, approximately 45 minutes west of Asheville. We are situated on ~25 acres of wooded, mountainous land, bordering Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Land.
At Balsam Base, campers are surrounded by nature! Our grounds are home to various native wildflowers (including trillium & mayapple), blackberry bushes, and a wide variety of tree species. Many bird species, including woodpeckers, goldfinch, cardinals, and more can be seen and heard in the trees above base.
Balsam Base Virtual Tour
Click here and toggle over to CAMP in the top right corner after you enter the tour.
Heading to Balsam Base for an ADHD summer camp adventure? Make the most of your time in the area by exploring the natural wonders and attractions that surround Balsam, NC. Whether you’re a foodie, nature enthusiast, or history buff, Balsam has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll highlight top restaurants, accommodation options, and exciting activities in and around Balsam, ensuring your visit is both enjoyable and memorable.
Top Restaurants:
Fuel your exploration with a delicious meal at one of Balsam’s top restaurants:
Birchwood Hall (Southern Fare): Indulge in mouthwatering Southern cuisine.
The Sweet Onion (Southern Fare): A local favorite for its classic Southern dishes.
Watami (Sushi): Savor fresh and delectable sushi options.
The Patio Bistro (Deli): Enjoy a quick and tasty deli meal.
Bocellis (Italian): Experience authentic Italian flavors.
The Blue Rooster (Southern Cooking): Dive into hearty Southern cooking.
Accommodation Options:
Whether you prefer a cozy B&B or a hotel near the airport, Balsam and its surroundings offer diverse accommodation choices:
Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center: Multiple hotels and vacation rentals.
Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn: Comfortable lodging in Waynesville.
The Yellow House B&B: A charming bed and breakfast in Waynesville.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Conveniently located in Sylva.
Moonshine Creek Campground: Embrace a rustic camping experience.
For additional options, explore hotels and vacation rentals in West Asheville, Asheville, and South Asheville near the Asheville Regional Airport.
Activities for Adventure Seekers:
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Balsam’s surroundings with these exciting activities:
Waterrock Knob (Short Hike with a view): Enjoy a breathtaking hike.
Black Balsam Knob (2 mi hike to a view): Explore the scenic trails.
Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (Planetarium): Delve into the cosmos.
Oconaluftee Indian Village (Cherokee History): Learn about Cherokee heritage.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Discover the natural wonders.
Nantahala Outdoor Center (White Water Rafting): Experience the thrill of rafting.
Travel Tips:
SOAR is conveniently located about an hour from AVL airport and two hours from Greenville-Spartanburg Intl Airport. Plan your trip accordingly and make the most of your time exploring the charm of Balsam and its surroundings.
Whether you’re seeking culinary delights, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Balsam, NC, has it all. Plan your visit strategically using our guide, and discover the hidden gems that make Balsam a perfect destination for families attending SOAR’s ADHD summer camp. Explore, indulge, and create lasting memories in this picturesque corner of North Carolina. Safe travels!
Kitchen & Indoor Recreation
We call it, “The lodge” and it’s home to our kitchen, dining hall, an indoor group recreation space, gear/food rooms and administrative offices.
Rustic Cabins
Throughout our campus are 10 rustic cabins, each named for a different explorer. The cabins contain wooden bunks with camp mattresses and are electricity free! Depending upon the course, campers stay between 2 and 14 nights at base sleeping in the cabins as a team. All groups stay in the cabins with their counselors. If the group is coed, the instructors will stay in between the boys and girls.
Bathhouse & Outdoor Recreation
The bathhouse building is adjacent to the Lodge with private bath and shower facilities, indoor group space, and a 24ft climbing wall.
Balsam Base also offers both a low and high ropes course as well as an open field area for games, archery, and hatchet throwing.
Tent Camping
While on expedition campers may stay in ~4 person tents with campers of the same gender or under tarps. Tentmates have no more than a 3 year difference in age. Instructors stay in their own individual tents right next to the students and can easily hear if the camper needs anything.
Wyoming
Eagle View Ranch is located four miles west of Dubois WY, situated on ~22 acres of ranch and woodland.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Wyoming, offers a truly awe-inspiring escape into nature’s grandeur. Perched high in the Rocky Mountains, this secluded ranch boasts panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. With its commanding elevation, visitors are treated to sweeping views of rugged mountain ranges, pristine forests, and rolling meadows that paint an ever-changing canvas with each passing season.
Are you yearning for a taste of the wild west? Look no further than Dubois, Wyoming, where rugged landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a true cowboy spirit await you. If you find yourself with some extra time before or after your camp session at Eagle View Ranch, we’ve got the perfect guide to help you make the most of your visit.
FUEL YOUR WILD WEST EXPLORATION WITH A VISIT TO DUBOIS’ TOP-NOTCH RESTAURANTS:
Cowboy Cafe: Savor the flavors of the West with hearty cowboy cuisine.
Noon Rock Pizza: Enjoy delicious pizza in a charming, Western atmosphere.
Lone Buffalo Steakhouse: Indulge in a succulent steak dinner at this local favorite.
The Stagecoach Inn & Suites: A cozy option for accommodations and dining.
Crooked Creek: Experience amazing views at high elevation while enjoying a delightful meal.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS:
Dubois and its neighboring areas offer various accommodation choices to suit your preferences. From in-town lodgings to those in nearby Jackson, you’re sure to find the perfect stay for your adventure.
Travel Tip: SOAR is conveniently located about one-and-a-half hours from Jackson Hole Airport and one hour from the Central Wyoming Regional Airport in Riverton.
EXPLORE DUBOIS AND BEYOND:
Dubois, nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Absaroka and Wind River mountain ranges, offers a plethora of activities for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.
Dubois Museum & Wind River Historical Center: Dive into the rich history of Dubois at the Dubois Museum, featuring exhibits on local wildlife, Native American artifacts, and the region’s fascinating geological history. Don’t forget to explore the Wind River Historical Center for a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural heritage.Dubois Museum
National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center: A short drive from Dubois, this center is dedicated to educating visitors about the iconic bighorn sheep. Explore exhibits highlighting the unique biology and conservation efforts surrounding these majestic creatures.
Dubois Badlands: Embark on an off-the-beaten-path adventure to the Dubois Badlands, a striking landscape of sculpted red hills and unique geological formations. Capture the rugged beauty of Wyoming in its most natural form.
Wind River Fly Fishing: For those seeking a more tranquil experience, try your hand at fly fishing in the pristine waters of the Wind River. Cast your line and unwind in the serenity of the great outdoors.
The Opportunity Shop (“OP Shop!”): Explore this unique thrift store for hidden treasures.
Nana’s Bowling and Arcade: Bowl a few frames and enjoy classic arcade games.
The Honey House: Learn about bees and purchase local honey in downtown Dubois.
LODGING OPTIONS:
Extend your stay and make Dubois your home away from home. Consider these lodging options for a comfortable and immersive experience:
The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV Resort: A charming retreat offering cozy cabins and RV hookups, providing a perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm.
Twin Pines Lodge and Cabins: Stay in town and enjoy comfortable lodging.
The Lexington Hotel & Suites at Jackson Hole: A beautiful place to stay near Eagle View Ranch.
The Lodge at Jackson Hole: Another excellent option for lodging in Jackson.
Dubois, Wyoming, beckons with its untamed beauty and adventurous spirit. Whether you’re exploring the town’s history, taking a ride by Eagle View Ranch, or venturing into the badlands, Dubois promises an unforgettable experience. Pack your cowboy boots, embrace the wild west, and make this summer a journey of a lifetime in Dubois!
Kitchen & Bathhouse
Constructed of lodgepole pine, this area houses the kitchen, bath and shower facilities, and a covered dining area with fireplace.
Outfitter Style Shelters
While at basecamp, the whole group of instructors and campers stay together in 1 platform tent. If the group is co-ed, the instructors will stay in between the boys and girls.
Riding Area & Classrooms
With horseback riding as the focus of Eagle View Ranch there is a dedicated venue for honing equestrian skills.
The Eagle View Ranch property includes many outbuildings that function as living spaces, administrative offices, classrooms, gear and equestrian equipment spaces. A second kitchen complex is adjacent to the Lodge, as are the horse corrals and tack buildings.
Tent Camping
While on expedition campers may stay in ~4 person tents with campers of the same gender or under tarps. Tentmates have no more than a 3 year difference in age. Instructors stay in their own individual tents right next to the students and can easily hear if the camper needs anything.
Florida Keys
Our Florida Keys Adventure and Florida SCUBA programs are facilitated in the Middle Keys. We utilize Camp Sawyer, a ~9 acre oceanfront camp owned by the Scout Council.
Camp Sawyer
The property overlooks both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, and is surrounded by tidal pools and mangroves perfect for swimming, snorkeling and exploration. All staff and campers stay in tents throughout the summer, and will have access to bathroom facilities, picnic tables, and fire circles.
Kitchen & Outdoor Recreation
Campers at this location quickly learn how to cook safely on camp stoves.
Tents
Florida is a SOAR Satellite program, meaning participants sleep in tents throughout the duration of the program. Tentmates are the same gender and have no more than a 3 year difference in age. Instructors stay in their own individual tents right next to the students and can easily hear if the camper needs anything.
Bathhouse
Shower facilities and bathrooms are conveniently located on site within a short walk.
California
The California participants camp in local State Parks and National Parks. Each campsite is equipped with water and bathroom facilities. Campers and staff will stay in tents for the duration of the program.
State & National Parks
Our California Coastal Adventure program begins at Lake Casitas Recreation Area west of the Big Sur region of California. The participants will travel to the Channel Islands NP, and stay at Morro Bay State Park.
The California Expedition begins in Monterey Bay, and then travels to Yosemite NP and the Lake Tahoe region.
Kitchen & Bathhouse
At this satellite location, campers cook on camp stoves and have access to bathhouses for most nights.
Stay at beautiful state and national parks with amazing views.
Tents
 California is a SOAR Satellite program, meaning participants sleep in tents throughout the duration of the program. Campers stay in ~4 person tents each night with campers of the same gender and learn how to properly set up primitive campsites. Tentmates are the same gender and have no more than a 3 year difference in age. Instructors stay in their own individual tents right next to the students and can easily hear if the camper needs anything.
Speciality Courses
Accommodations on specialty courses will vary. International courses typically combine lodging at hostels, private hotels, and campground facilities.
Distinct Accommodations TBD
Campers in our specialty courses stay in a variety of accommodations, from bunk beds in hostels to private hotel rooms to camping, depending on the course. More information about the accommodations of specialty trips is provided after registration.
Kitchen & Bathhouse
The kitchen while on specialty courses can be found in hostels or around the campfire ring. When no kitchen is readily available campers enjoy regional cuisines from local restaurants while practicing budgeting!
Sleep Accomodations
A variety of locations such as hotels, local B&B’s, and more.
