Author: Don Gentle

Wednesday had a big start once again this morning.  We had a climbing trip head out early again.  Two different groups hit the French Broad in canoes today. Mountain biking hit DuPont.  And, we had a day hike up Rick Mountain.  The boys are certainly hitting their groove. Life at High Rocks is about being… Continue reading The Sweet Spot

I am sure it will rain soon, but the last couple of days have been pure heaven up here at the High Rocks!  Once again today, the sun was shining, and the breeze was blowing just enough to keep the sailboats moving. The tripping program was in full force today! We had boys heading to Looking… Continue reading Flying Colors

After all the excitement yesterday, it was almost calming to start a “normal” day.  On my way up to the early “meeting of the minds.” I enjoyed the peacefulness of camp that many do not see.  Still quiet, the morning mist rising as the sun warms the land… A wonderful blue sky as the sun… Continue reading Back to “Just Camp”

Today started with a bang, or should I say a guitar.  Jimmy Hendrix belted out the Star Spangled Banner for wake-up.  It has been a tradition for a number of years here at High Rocks. It was a fun treat for the boys coming back fresh from their cabin overnights. When I say fresh, it is sort… Continue reading Freedom Day 2021!

Our first week was a little different this year if you were a returning camper.  The boys rotated with their cabin having an opportunity at ALL the activities three different times this week. While it probably not what they expected, it certainly turned out to be a worthwhile event.  WE felt it was important to… Continue reading Just What We Needed

It sure was another wonderful day here at “The Rocks.”  I have been a little busy lately putting some final touches on our ACA Accreditation.  This is a once every five-year event that requires a lot of upfront work in regards to written documentation and procedures.  All of this is already in place, but it… Continue reading The 1100 Acre Wood

I know I say it a lot, but I really enjoy the morning at High Rocks. I start my day typically just past 6 am. My dog Barley and the coffee pot are typically my first two interactions of the day. I enjoy sitting on the deck listening to the peace while Barley enjoys his… Continue reading Mountain Mornings

Our morning started with a little light rain while we headed into breakfast. A little rain in the mountains must fall, and morning rain is actually quite wonderful. We were greeted inside the dining hall with homemade cinnamon toast, scrambled eggs, sausage links, fresh berries, and assorted cereals. Our first morning assembly of the session… Continue reading The Adventure Begins

It was so incredible to see so many old and new friends today.  I feel like it was a family reunion of sorts.  The best was also all our “new friends” we visited with today.  After months on the phone, Zoom sessions, informational videos, tons of correspondence, and then that final 1.3 miles up the… Continue reading Back At It!

We went all out until the last minute! We still had three trips out of camp this morning! I took the opportunity to join some of the youngest guys on a short kayak float trip! We had so much fun! I really enjoyed watching and helping these guys down the river! It’s hard to believe… Continue reading End Game and Final Campfire

I have enjoyed watching these boys learn and grow, enjoy each other company,  appreciate the differences, and have a blast! Their three weeks at camp have allowed them to forget about their phone, t.v., game console, and even the news.  A little separation from the day-to-day chaos of school, grades, tests, competition, and the past… Continue reading Cabin Night Wish Night

We are definitely in the “norming” part of our group process here at camp. The boys have learned how to work together, accept differences, and even realize that from time to time we all need help. Leaders are not always out in front, sometimes they need to let others earn their wings.  These boys surprise… Continue reading High Rocks Magic