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Our Father–Son Weekends at Camp Mondamin are an opportunity to experience Mondamin if your camper isn’t quite ready to jump into a two- or three-week session, and can also be a great capstone to a summer spent here with us. Whether you’re a longtime Mondamin family or experiencing camp for the first time, these weekends are all about strengthening bonds through fun in the outdoors. While we call it the Father–Son Weekend, any parent or guardian — including moms, uncles, grandparents, or family friends — is warmly welcome to join in the adventure.
Each weekend features a blend of camp life and wilderness exploration. Participants gather at camp Friday to experience Mondamin’s campus and to prepare before heading out Saturday morning on a guided trip. Following registration, participants select their Saturday/Sunday programming, choosing between an easier adventure into Mondamin’s extensive backcountry property, the Back Forty, or an activity-driven experience into nearby State and National Forests.
The Back Forty adventure is roughly the same each weekend, while the out-of-camp activity varies by weekend (i.e. one weekend may offer the chance to climb real rock and camp in Pisgah National Forest, while another may involve paddling on and camping beside the French Broad River). Consult the table below for activity offerings by weekend. We encourage you to choose based on your and your son’s ages, interests, and comfort levels. The Back Forty option tends to be best suited for younger boys or guardians who aren’t highly active, while the out-of-camp option is great for pairs who crave an adventure and are excited to put in effort for a great payoff.
Our experience at Mondamin's father/son camp was exceptional. The staff's professionalism, deep knowledge, and enthusiasm made every moment special. My sons gained confidence and independence as they took on new activities they'd never tried before, all in a safe and encouraging environment. The beauty and ruggedness of camp further highlighted our experience.
These weekends are designed for boys aged 5–15 and their fathers (or father figures/guardians). Participants should be in reasonable shape, but serious backcountry experience is not required — Mondamin staff will handle trip logistics, cooking, bear safety, navigation, and emergency preparedness. Fathers who want to brush up on outdoor skills will have the opportunity to learn about campsite setup, meal planning, and backcountry cooking from their trip leader.
We ask that only one guardian attend and that they only bring boys. If you want to bring the whole family, consider our Friends and Family Weekend.
Stay within Camp Mondamin’s private 750-acre wilderness area, the Back Forty. Expect an easy one-mile approach hike, with the option to tent camp or use one of camp’s open-air shelters. You’ll spend the afternoon exploring creeks, trails, and views on camp property.
Head into a nearby wilderness area for an overnight backcountry trip. The activities offered to the out-of-camp group will vary depending on the weekend, and may include backpacking, canoeing, and rock climbing. These expeditions will be a bit more physical than the in-camp adventures. Expect to work up a sweat carrying your own packs, loading and unloading canoes, and completing approaches to climbing areas.
| Weekend | Dates | Back Forty Option | Out-of-Camp Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Father-Son 1 | May 15–17, 2026 | Explore camp’s private forest, hiking and camping in an open-air shelter. Options to use the Green Cove waterfront and climbing tower. | Backpacking in Panthertown Valley. One-mile hike to campsite followed by day hikes to a variety of waterfalls and swimming holes. |
| Father-Son 2 | August 15-17, 2026 | Explore camp’s private forest, hiking and camping in an open-air shelter. Options to use the Green Cove waterfront and climbing tower. | Rock climbing and camping at Cedar Rock. Two-mile approach hike with packs followed by an afternoon of real-rock climbing on NC granite. |
| Father-Son 3 | August 28-30, 2026 | Explore camp’s private forest, hiking and camping in an open-air shelter. Options to use the Green Cove waterfront and climbing tower. | Paddling and river camping on the French Broad or the Tuckasegee. Mellow Class I and II rapids with great views, then riverside camping. |
The in-camp portion of each weekend follows the same general schedule and structure, but with small variations based on weather, daylight, and activity focus. Families are welcome to attend more than one weekend — each offers a unique take on the Mondamin experience.
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
$800 per father–son pair
$250 for each additional son
Prices are inclusive of all meals, activities, and transportation from Friday breakfast through Sunday lunch.
Mondamin is a 30-minute drive from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) or a 50-minute drive from Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP). Both airports offer rental vehicles. Check out our Driving Directions page for detailed navigation instructions.