MountainCamp - Elementary
2026-06-14 - 2026-06-26
The Mountain’s Elementary Camp sessions offer an inviting, low-pressure entry point for children aged 9-11 to experience overnight camp. We emphasize games which teach young people to cooperate and mend fences with each other when conflict does come up. We also intentionally design our activities so that our young friends can learn new skills while having fun. Some of our offerings include:
Arts & crafts and creative expression activities, including pottery, nature sculpture, and poetry workshops;
Adventure experiences, including canoeing, hiking, and wilderness survival skills.
Agricultural and botanical adventures, including learning to identify edible and medicinal plants native to our region, harvesting and preparing (and eating!) produce from our farm, and learning about the fantastic variety of fungi present on the Mountain;
Athletic pursuits, including team sports, swimming at our waterfront, large group games such as capture the flag, and archery;
Self-exploration and social justice workshops, including body positivity, nonviolent communication skills, and thoughtful debates.
Price:

Supporter – $2,200
Traditional Cost – $1,930
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $1,665
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $990
Financial Assistance Level 3 – $495
Financial Assistance Level 4 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $400 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
In our registration system, select MountainCamp
Click Here to Register!

MountainCamp - Counselors in Training (CITs)
2026-06-14 - 2026-07-24
Thank you for your interest in The Mountain’s CIT Program. The program is an exciting way to practice leadership abilities through trainings and direct experience to live in a community inspired by Unitarian Universalism with a close-knit group of peers, and to develop program design and implement a successful camp experience.
The program is for rising 12th graders, and will include the following components:

Small group dynamics – Participants will experience and learn about working with small groups. Working with the same group in a wide variety of situations under the guidance of a mentor.
Training sessions designed specifically for the CITs will be dispersed throughout the 6-week sessions on Unitarian Universalism, conflict management, peaceful communications, and youth development. Trainings will be conducted by MountainCamp staff and by The Mountain’s year round staff.
Participation in camp workshops and camp- wide activities, which CITs will critique and discuss camps educational process and is a great way to think critically about conducting and creating new programs.
Cabin groups experience – Each CIT will be assigned a cabin for each camp session with which they are responsible for. Along with mentoring campers while observing how the counselors problem-solve and relate to campers.
Intentionally scheduled time for each participant to develop new MountainCamp programs – workshops and other camp programs, and time will be included in the CIT schedule for program implementation.
Service projects – at The Mountain and offsite, working with local community programs and service work that ranges from environmental sustainability projects to addressing poverty and educational programs, approximately one day out of each week.
Multiple outdoor adventure trips with outdoor leadership training – Participants in the program will be trained on how to properly lead various MountainCamp outdoor adventure trips, acquiring skill to keep our campers safe. These trips will occur at least once out of each week. CITs will also participate till end of the summer.

Mountain staff will review applications and reference letters and notify the applicants. There are a limited number of spaces available. Applications must be received by March 15th to be eligible for the program.
This summer will be exciting and rewarding as always! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Youth Programs office by emailing youthcamp@themountainrlc.org.
CIT Participant Overview
Desired Qualifications:

Interested in developing knowledge and skills in a rotating work environment
Interest in developing interpersonal skills with the rest of the program participants
Ability and willingness to place the needs to peers and camp above personal interest
Ability to follow directions and accept guidance and supervision
Good judgment, integrity, maturity and flexibility
Enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience and self control
Ability to work as part of a team
Understanding, acceptance and implementation of The Mountain’s Youth expectations, overall mission, and core values.

General Responsibilities:

Being a positive role model, setting good examples for peers and campers
Participate fully in assigned activities
Learn about the environment in which each camper excels and is challenged in.
Learn to recognize and respond appropriately to opportunities for problem solving and conflict resolutions
At all times, model and practice the philosophies and values of The Mountain citizenship and community standards
Set a good example for campers and others including cleanliness, punctuality, care for shared camp spaces, patience and table manners
Respect others’ personal property, camp equipment and Mountain facilities
Clean your living space throughout the entire session
Possess mobility and agility over varying types of terrain throughout campus and offsite
Participate actively in the CIT program training and activities
Follow all camper and staff rules and regulations
Ability to attend the full session (not arriving late or leaving early )
Understanding, acceptance and implementation of The Mountain’s Youth expectations, overall mission, and core values.

Price:

Supporter Level 2 – $3,450
Supporter Level 1 – $2,760
Traditional Cost – $2,070
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $1,380
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $690

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard deposit (non-refundable): $400 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
Please submit an application to be considered for the program. Once you’ve been accepted, your child will be registered and you’ll be able to complete the paperwork and make a payment.
CIT Agreement:
If selected to participate in this program, I will strive to carry out a program within the framework derived from the 8 Principles of Unitarian Universalism:

The inherent worth and dignity of every individual
Justice, equity and compassion in all relations
Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth
A free and responsible search for truth and meaning
The right of conscience ad the use of the democratic process
The goal of world community with peace, liberty and justice for all
Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part
Working to build a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.

I understand that as a CIT I am entrusted with the upholding of The Mountain’s Community standards, and that I am a program participant and NOT an employee of The Mountain. As such I will follow all program participant guidelines including:

I will not use unlawful drugs, alcohol or tobacco products.
I will not engage in sexual relations.
I will not bring or use firearms, fireworks or weapons of any kind.
I will not use violence in my words or actions.

Counselors in Training Application (CIT)

CompanyThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Your Name

First

Last

PronounsBirthdate

MM slash DD slash YYYY

Your Email Address

Enter Email

Confirm Email

Your Phone NumberAddress

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

ZIP / Postal Code

Country
AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands

Certifications: List any certificates with expiration dates. Examples: First Aid, CPR, Lifeguarding, Swimming, Emergency Water RescueCamp Experiences: List any organized camp experiences you have had - specifics should include name of the particular camp, whether you were a camper or staff member, and what activities you were involved with at campTraining & Leadership: List all trainings that you have taken that are applicable to the position for which you are applying for, and the roles that you have had.Why do you want to be a CIT at MountainCamp? What do you hope to gain from this experience?What do you think your job responsibilities will be as an CIT?What skills, interest and talents do you possess which would be an asset to MountainCamp?How do you plan on being a role model for your peers and the youth at The Mountain?How have you recently implemented two of the eight Principles of Unitarian Universalism listed in the Agreement?Think of an adult who has been influential in your life. What skills and talents do they have which you would want to practice?What else would be useful for us to know about you?Upload Your Work Experiences (Paid or Volunteer) and ReferencesUpload your resume in .pdf, .doc or .docx formatAccepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, Max. file size: 25 MB. CIT Agreement(Required) I agree to the CIT Agreement.

MountainCamp - ASCENDERs
2026-06-14 - 2026-07-24
Apply to be with us for our ASCENDER program this summer!
ASCENDERs get a unique experience while at MountainCamp. As this is a Leadership Experience, applications are required. Campers should be 16 – 17 years old (rising 10th – 12th graders).
Started in 1981, the ASCENDERs (All Summer Campers Exploring Nature’s Delights and Experiencing Recreation) program allows for older youth to give back to our camp and conference center through work study in each Mountain department, gaining experience in our larger community through volunteer work and enjoying nature’s splendor on the beautiful Highlands Plateau. The ASCENDER campers will begin their all-summer experience working with the ASCENDER mentor to learn about each department of The Mountain, discovering their passion and potential along the way.
Space is limited for ASCENDERS. Please submit an application as soon as possible. We will accept applicants on a rolling basis. Applicants may be contacted for a phone interview.
Price:

Supporter Level 2 – $3,450
Supporter Level 1 – $2,760
Traditional Cost – $2,070
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $1,380
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $690

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $400 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
Please submit an application to be considered for the program. Once you’ve been accepted, your child will be registered and you’ll be able to complete the paperwork and make a payment.

ASCENDER Application

FacebookThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Your Personal InformationYour Name(Required)

First

Last

Birth Date

MM slash DD slash YYYY

Your Email Address(Required)

Enter Email

Confirm Email

Address(Required)

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

ZIP / Postal Code

Country
AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands

Your Phone(Required)Best Time To Call YouWhen is the best time for us to reach you via telephone?MorningsEarly AfternoonLate AfternoonEarly EveningMore About YouCERTIFICATIONS:List any certificates with expiration dates. Examples: First Aid, CPR, Lifeguarding, Swimming, Emergency Water RescueCAMP EXPERIENCES:List any organized camp experiences you have had - specifics should include name of the particular camp, whether you were a camper or staff member, and what activities you were involved with at camp.TRAINING & LEADERSHIP:List all trainings that you have taken that are applicable to the position for which you are applying for, and the roles that you have had.What do you think your job responsibilities will be as an ASCENDER?Why do you want to be an ASCENDER at MountainCamp?What do you hope to gain from this experience?What skills, interest and talents do you possess which would be an asset to MountainCamp?How do you plan on being a role model for your peers and the youth at The Mountain?How have you recently implemented two of the eight Principles of Unitarian Universalism?Think about an adult you consider a role model. What skills or talents do they possess which you would like to have?What else would be useful for us to know about you?Upload Your ResumeUpload your resume in .pdf, .doc or .docx formatAccepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, Max. file size: 25 MB. ASCENDER AGREEMENT(Required)If selected to participate in this program, I would strive to carry out a program within the framework of The Mountain’s core values derived from the 7 Principles of Unitarian Universalism.

I understand that as an ASCENDER I am a program participant and NOT an employee of The Mountain. I understand that I must follow all program participant guidelines including:

I will not use unlawful drugs, alcohol or tobacco products.

I will not engage in sexual relations.

I will not bring or use firearms, fireworks or weapons of any kind.

I will not use violence in my words or actions.

That as an ASCENDER I am entrusted with the upholding of The Mountain’s community standards and if I betray this trust I risk my current and future participation at The Mountain; my behavior - positive or negative - impacts the entire Mountain community.

Applicant must enter their name and the date to indicate that all information on this application is accurate to the best of their knowledge. I agree to the terms and conditions.

Farm Event: Native Bee Walk w/ John Kotab
2026-06-20 13:30 - 15:00, 2026-07-18 09:00 - 10:30 (America/New_York)
Many of you know about honeybees and bumblebees. Did you know there are around 300 other bee species in this region? John Kotab does, and he’s here to showcase them and will help you identify many of them on our bee-ID notification walk. Come learn about all our solitary and colony-forming bees as we stroll the beautiful wildflower gardens and environs at The Mountain Retreat Learning Center.
Rain Policy
All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!
Refund Policy
If you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.

John McCutcheon's June Songwriting Camp
2026-06-21 - 2026-06-25
Join Grammy-nominated folk musician and songwriter, John McCutcheon, for an intense, intimate songwriting Master Class at The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center in Highlands, NC.
​Join other songwriting lovers for this remarkable event at an even more remarkable place. In between sessions enjoy breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, healthy, delicious homemade food, and camaraderie.
Click Here to Register and for more information!

MountainCamp - Beginner
2026-06-21 - 2026-06-26
Beginner Camp for 6-8 year old campers (rising 1st-3rd graders) is a 1-week session that provides the perfect way for the youngest group of campers to be introduced to camp and fall in love with it. Arts and Crafts, nature hikes, and swimming at the lake are a few of the activities that engage the kids during the day, while storytellers, campfires, and scavenger hunts entertain them in the evenings.
Price:

Supporter – $1,100
Traditional Cost – $965
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $770
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $495
Financial Assistance Level 3 – $230
Financial Assistance Level 4 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $200 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
In our registration system, select MountainCamp
Click Here to Register!

Farm Event: Mushroom Identification
2026-06-27 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-07-25 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-08-29 13:00 - 16:00
Let’s get wild on a 3 hour walk in the old growth forest while we discover, properly identify and discuss foraging for wild edible and medicinal mushrooms. We cover the basics to get you started on what could become a lifelong passion and hobby of yours! We discuss prime habitats where specific mushrooms occur, why and what mushrooms do ecologically and a thorough discussion on safety precautions as well as practical harvesting/preservation techniques. Lastly, we will show you some simple wild mushroom uses and cooking techniques that we all will sample!

Learn to identify choice edible and medicinal mushrooms
Learn to identify the common toxic look alikes.
Learn approved forage areas and where not to forage
Learn proper handling and storage techniques
Learn the variety of ways mushrooms benefit the forest and their ecological role
Learn preservation and preparation techniques
Learn the BIG 5 functional mushrooms and what they can do for you
Leave with a few wild recipes

Rain Policy
All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!
Refund Policy
If you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.

FACETS Leadership Retreat for Women Conductors
2026-06-28 - 2026-06-30
FACETS is a retreat for women conductors focused on leadership development, fostering mentoring relationships, and opportunities for networking.​
The first FACETS conference was held in northern Georgia in July of 2016, where twenty-six women from nine states, representing elementary, middle school, high school, college, church, and community choirs, came together to learn and teach, explore their questions, and share their experiences.
Email facetsretreat@gmail.com for more information.

MountainCamp - Intermediate
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-10
Our Intermediate Camp sessions are intended to meet the high-energy needs of adolescents aged 12-14 during this special time in their lives. We strive to provide an opportunity for our campers to shape the community they are a part of as they begin to explore having more agency in their lives. Intermediate is also the first opportunity for Mountain Campers to experience more adventurous outdoor activities at our camps, including rock climbing and whitewater rafting. Other opportunities include:
Arts & crafts and creative expression activities, including pottery, nature sculpture, and poetry workshops;
Adventure experiences, including whitewater rafting, canoeing, and hiking for all ability levels;
Agricultural and botanical adventures, including learning to identify edible and medicinal plants native to our region, harvesting and preparing (and eating!) produce from our farm, and learning about the fantastic variety of fungi present on the Mountain;
Athletic pursuits, including team sports, swimming at our waterfront, large group games such as capture the flag, and archery;
Self-exploration and social justice workshops, including body positivity, nonviolent communication skills, and thoughtful debates.
Many of our long-term returning campers start their journey with the Mountain family at Intermediate camp. Whether you come for one season or return for a lifetime, we hope to see you up on the Mountain this summer!
Price:

Supporter – $2,200
Traditional Cost – $1,930
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $1,665
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $990
Financial Assistance Level 3 – $495
Financial Assistance Level 4 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $400 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
In our registration system, select MountainCamp
Click Here to Register!

SE LREDA: Religious Education Week
2026-07-05 - 2026-07-10
Join fellow religious educators for a week of learning, fun, and relaxation at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center!
Registration Information
Retreat dates: July 5 – 10, 2026
Registration status: Now open!
Registration Deadline: June 21, 2026
Registration Fees
Adult Double Occupancy: $120/person/night
Adult Single Occupancy (limited availability): $190/person/night
Youth 12-17: $70/person/night
Child 4-11: $55/person/night
Toddler 0-3: Free!
3 Programs!
We are excited to offer three programs at RE Week this summer. Our main offering will run from Monday morning through Wednesday morning.
The Deeper Joy of Whole Church RE
Religious educators, ministers, and staff are invited to explore the Deeper Joy of Whole Church RE with Jennica Davis and Joy Berry from the UUA Lifespan Faith Engagement team. We’ll explore collaborative faith development for folks of all ages that feels more like play and helps us strengthen our relationship muscles. Expect hands-on activities and resources grounded in Deeper Joy and Whole Church RE, a curious look at our “congregations as curriculum,” and ways to name, claim, and game our way, together, toward faith development goals that shape a more joyful, welcoming, resilient, and beloved community.
Note: This workshop will be eligible for Sparks-level professional development credit. It is designed especially to support shared ministry approaches to congregational community-building and co-learning – religious educators are encouraged to invite their ministry colleagues to join us!
These 2 options will run from Thursday morning through Friday morning. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
1. SoulCollage® with Rev. Nancy Combs-Morgan, CRE-LL , a creative collage process designed for self-discovery, self-acceptance, and personal empowerment.
Participants create personalized cards, each representing a unique aspect of their self,
using images from magazines, photographs, and personal artwork. The process encourages intuitive dialogue with different parts of the self, allowing individuals to uncover hidden insights and emotions. SoulCollage® is accessible to everyone, regardless of artistic skill, and can be practiced individually or in group settings,
making it a versatile tool for personal growth and emotional exploration.
The power of being in community for individual and group practice can be transformative.
Also, Rev. Nancy brings new lens to this practice applicable for family practice.
or
2. OWL Coordinator Training with Kat Good – learn how to coordinate an OWL Ministry. We will share insights about how to grow an OWL program alongside your RE programs. We will get to dive into all the implementation questions we don’t have time for in an OWL facilitator training, including how to recruit and vet facilitators, manage creative budgeting, communicating with families, and growing long-lasting, vibrant OWL programs. Kat Good has been facilitating OWL for 18 years and training OWL facilitators for the past two years. She is also an OWL coordinator of a large OWL program in Chapel Hill NC, with 25 OWL facilitators. She is passionate about getting more quality OWL out into the world.
*This training is not a replacement for facilitator training.
Click Here to Register!
In addition to registering in Campwise, please also fill out this Google Form.

Farm Event: Wild Foraging - Plants and Mushrooms
2026-07-11 13:00 - 16:00
Would you like to re-awaken to the presence and gifts of the wild food and medicine growing all around you? Please come along as we emerge into our old growth forest and learn what nature has to offer. Here we will learn of the legends and lore of these Appalachia natives, how they have historically been consumed, how to sustainably harvest and how to prepare them safely. Lastly, we will enjoy a wild foraged herbal tea and give our gratitude for nature and the nourishment that it provides.

Learn to identify edible and medicinal plants, herbs, berries, nuts and mushrooms.
Learn about the life cycle and how to sustainably forage these wild edibles
Learn how they have historically been consumed
Learn how to prepare them safely
Learn their uses and the legends behind these nutritional powerhouses

Rain Policy
All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!
Refund Policy
If you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.

MountainCamp - Senior High
2026-07-12 - 2026-07-24
Senior High Camp offers the classic MountainCamp experience for youth aged 15-17. With a strong emphasis on community building and working in small groups, our goal is for campers to make personal connections that will last a lifetime and have a fun summer exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Campers have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities, including more adventurous outdoor experiences than younger age groups.
Camp fun includes:
Arts & crafts and creative expression activities such as pottery, nature sculpture, and poetry workshops.
Adventure experiences, including whitewater rafting, canoeing, and hiking for all ability levels.
Agricultural and botanical adventures, including learning to identify edible and medicinal plants and fungi native to our region, harvesting and preparing (and eating!) produce from our farm.
Athletic pursuits, team sports, swimming at our waterfront, large group games such as capture the flag, and archery.
Self-exploration and social justice workshops, including body positivity, communication skills, and thoughtful debates.
Price:

Supporter – $2,200
Traditional Cost – $1,930
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $1,665
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $990
Financial Assistance Level 3 – $495
Financial Assistance Level 4 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $400 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
In our registration system, select MountainCamp
Click Here to Register!

MountainCamp - Outdoor Skills and Adventure Camp (OSA)
2026-07-12 - 2026-07-24
Outdoor Skills & Adventure (OSA) is an ideal starting point for youth interested in exploring the wilderness. During the first week of the program, we focus on learning outdoor skills and building strong relationships within the groups. Campers will learn low-impact camping skills, basic knots and rope skills, fire-building, how to properly pack an expedition backpack, and orienteering with map and compass. Activities during the first week include day hikes, rock climbing, and swimming.
During the second week, campers will put what they learned to the test and go on a multi-night camping trip.
Both programs will end their trips with a day of Whitewater Rafting along the Nantahala River.
Price:

Supporter – $2,200
Traditional Cost – $1,930
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $1,665
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $990
Financial Assistance Level 3 – $495
Financial Assistance Level 4 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All youth will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $400 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: June 1, 2026
In our registration system, select MountainCamp
Click Here to Register!

Intergenerational Family Camp
2026-07-26 - 2026-07-31
A Summer Camp for everyone! Are you age 0 to 100+? It’s for you! Are you a family looking for a fun summer experience? It’s for you! Are you a group of friends wanting to explore nature? It’s for you too! Everyone is invited to come together for crafts, hiking, campfires, and more. It’s a great way for family and friends of all ages to enjoy the summer together in an amazing mountain setting!
What to Expect
All Ages:

Arts & crafts projects.
Campfires and storytelling.
Sing-alongs.
Canoeing and swimming around the lake.
Exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
Highlands Biological Station and Botanical Garden trips.
Foxfire Heritage Center
Fun & games throughout the day.
Farm Programming.
Tubing & Whitewater Rafting.
Low Ropes Challenge Course
Concerts and Evening Performances.
Time for relaxation and reflection.

Ages 25+:

Campfire Dance Party.
Afternoon hikes.
Morning Yoga.
Social Justice workshops and discussions.
Local brewery tour.
Vintage camp games and activities for adults.

Some family favorite nearby locations
Price
Adults 18+

Supporter Level 2 – $890
Supporter Level 1 – $680
True Cost – $520
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $190
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $0

Youth 4 – 17

Supporter – $680
True Cost – $470
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $190
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All attendees will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Toddlers (0-3) attend for free.
Standard Deposit (non-refundable): $100 per camper registration
Full payment of all registration fees due: July 6, 2026
In our registration system, select “MountainCamp”, then your Intergenerational Family Camp package.
Click Here to Register!

Summer Camp for Grownups
2026-07-26 - 2026-07-31
A Summer Camp for adults! Are you 25+? Missing the old days of field time, field trips, and campfires? It’s for you! Kids at heart are invited to come together for crafts, hiking, campfires, and more. It’s a great way for adults who miss or missed being campers to enjoy throwing it back to childhood with an extra fun adult flair.
Camp experience includes:

Tie-dyeing adult camp shirts
Arts and crafts
Afternoons at the lake
Hiking to nearby waterfalls
Time for relaxation and reflection
Campfire dance parties

What to expect:

MountainCamp adapted to adult sensibilities
Relaxed schedule with lots of options to participate or chill
Vintage camp games and activities for adults
Late night activity options
Residential options including camper cabins and others

Guests can also explore nearby activities around The Mountain.
Registration
Retreat Dates: July 26 – 31, 2026
Registration deadline: July 19, 2026
Fees

Supporter Level 2 – $890
Supporter Level 1 – $680
True Cost – $520
Financial Assistance Level 1 – $190
Financial Assistance Level 2 – $0

Starting this year, we’re offering multiple pricing tiers to make summer camp more accessible to families across a range of income levels and to better serve youth from historically underserved communities. All attendees will receive the same camp experience, regardless of the price selected during registration.
Click Here to Register!

Farm Event: Native Bee Walk w/ John Kotab
2026-08-08 13:30 - 15:00
Many of you know about honeybees and bumblebees. Did you know there are around 300 other bee species in this region? John Kotab does, and he’s here to showcase them and will help you identify many of them on our bee-ID notification walk. Come learn about all our solitary and colony-forming bees as we stroll the beautiful wildflower gardens and environs at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center.
Rain Policy
All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!
Refund Policy
If you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.

Crone Awakening Wisdom
2026-09-10 - 2026-09-13
For More information and Registration . Click The Link Below!

Crone Awakening

Farm Event: Community Meet and Greet
2026-09-12 13:00 - 16:00
Rain Policy
All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!
Refund Policy
If you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.

Episcopal Church of the Epiphany Annual Retreat
2026-09-18 - 2026-09-20
The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany is an inclusive community called to seek and follow Jesus Christ. We welcome all people in the Eucharistic fellowship of Christ’s Body. We receive strength and encouragement at the common table to carry out Christ’s work of reconciliation in our broken world. Nourished by worship and witness, learning and teaching, fellowship and service, we strive to live out the Gospel’s radical values with gladness of heart.
Church Website
When
​Program: September 18 – 20, 2026
Registration Deadline: September 4
Registration: Coming soon!

In our registration system you’ll find:
“Church Retreats” | “MountainCamp” | “Other Retreats” | “Youth CONs”
Select “Church Retreats“, then select your “Episcopal Church of the Epiphany” package.

The Oneness Movement: Beautiful State Course
2026-09-19 - 2026-09-20
The Beautiful State is a two-day journey into the power of consciousness..
Through The Beautiful State course, you will discover the power of your consciousness and how it can reshape our own life and the world around you. This course serves as a roadmap to guide you through the unconscious mind to greater self-awareness and higher levels of consciousness
Embark on this transformative journey to discover your true self, learn the art of living in a beautiful state, and unlock the door to a life of joy, harmony, and synchronicity.
At the heart of this workshop is the recognition that a beautiful state of being is not only a possibility but is our true nature. Through a series of enlightening sessions, neuroscience-based meditation practices, and guided processes, you will learn to release destructive, unconscious patterns that impede every aspect of life. This program offers an opportunity to transcend stressful states of mind, awaken you to the universal intelligence, and empower you to live a beautiful life.
Our lives reflect our inner state. To change our lives, we must first transform our inner being. In every instance, the choice is ours: live in stress or in a beautiful state. This inner journey is designed to awaken harmony in every aspect of our lives.
After this course you will be able to:

Free yourself of over-thinking
Return to calm more easily by learning simple, powerful & specially designed meditations
Create harmony with yourself & other
Re-discover your authentic self and be more energized & joyful
Enjoy a creative life where inspiration comes and answers flow to you
Tap into Higher Consciousness and create synchronicities

Registration Info
Registration Status: Now open!
Registration deadline: September 4, 2026
Fees
This retreat begins on Saturday morning and ends Sunday afternoon. You may also choose to arrive on Friday night and/or stay on Sunday night. Meals in The Mountain’s dining hall will be served beginning with Friday dinner and ending with Sunday lunch or dinner.
Room and Board Fee
Double Occupancy – $135 per person per night
Single Occupancy (limited availability) – $205 per person per night
Bunkhouse – $115 per person per night
Commuter – $60
Program Fee
First Time Participant – $275
Returning Participant – $175
Student – $150
Registration Instructions

Go to The Mountain’s Portal
On the top right click on Registration Portal.
Create an account
Complete your personal profile
Under “Program Classifications” select ‘Other Retreats’
Find 2026 Beautiful State Course
Select your room option and number of nights
Specify dietary needs, housing options and mobility needs
Specify roommate options. If this is left empty one will be assigned to you
Submit payment. Your spot is not secured until payment has been submitted.

Click Here to Register!

Farm Event: Nurture with Nature - Oxymel & Elixir Making
2026-09-19 13:00 - 16:00
Have you ever wondered how natural remedies are made? Oxymels and Elixirs are long embedded in our history. Come learn how to sustainably harvest and process natural herbs that you could be medicinally using right now from your own backyard. Learn to treat common colds and seasonal allergies without harmful drugs from the pharmacy. Hear the stories, legends and lore our elders used to tell us of these native plants and most of all take your health into your own hands.
Here we will learn to identify and ethically wildcraft medicinal plants and herbs into healing oxymels and elixirs to boost your immune system and naturally care for your family.

Learn what oxymel and elixirs are
Learn their traditional uses
Learn to identify and forage wild medicinal herbs
Learn to use ingredients from your own refrigerator
Learn to make your own customized product to care for you and your family such as elderberry tonic and fire cider

Rain Policy
All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!
Refund Policy
If you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.

GSV Fall Conference
2026-09-24 - 2026-09-27
Check back in 2026 for more information!
GaySpiritVisions.org

UUWomenspirit Fall Institute and Gathering
2026-09-30 - 2026-10-04
To learn when registration opens and about pricing, schedule, our offerings, and more, please visit our website uuwomenspirit.org.

UU Asheville Mountain Gathering
2026-10-09 - 2026-10-11
Join our congregation for a restful weekend of inter-generational connections. Experience the mountain retreat and learning center again or for the first time while deepening relationships with fellow congregants. Take a workshop, go for a hike or just sit on the balcony and enjoy spectacular views of the mountains.
When
Program: October 9 – 11, 2026
Registration: Now open!
Registration Deadline: September 25, 2026
This event will sell out well in advance, please register and pay in full to secure your place
Registration
Registration restricted to Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville members, friends and invited guests
We highly recommend guests to register and pay early to secure lodging. We give priority to those who have mobility and medical issues, but cannot guarantee specific rooms to any guest.
Registration Fee includes:

Lodging
Meals
Use of assigned facilities
Participation in program activities

Adult Package Rate, 3 Days /2 Nights, Friday – Sunday:

$260 per person, double occupancy (shared room)​
$400 per person, single occupancy (private room)​​

***Private rooms are limited and based on availability.***
​Youth Package Rate, Friday – Sunday

Youth ages 12-17 – $170
Children ages 4-11 – $130
Toddler ages 0-3 – FREE
Youth and Children must be accompanied by a registered parent/guardian
Youth and Children are lodged with an accompanying registered parent/guardian

Reserve Your Space
In our registration system, select Church Retreats then select your 2026 UU Asheville package
​Each family member must be registered individually in our registration website
​Use one username and password per family
​

UUTC Brevard Annual Retreat
2026-10-11 - 2026-10-13
Inclusive. Intentional. INVOLVED.
This is a three-day, two-night fall congregational retreat for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Brevard. We welcome members and friends of UUTC of all ages. There will be fun and fellowship for all, including nature walks, arts and crafts, workshops, singing and music, and a Sunday service.
​View their website
Program Details
Registration open to UUTC members, friends, and invited guests
Program: October 11 – 13, 2026
Registration Coming soon!
Registration deadline: September 27, 2026
​Arrival Date and Time: Sunday, Oct 11, 3pm – 6pm
Departure Date and Time: Tuesday, Oct 13, after 12pm

UU Fellowship of Athens Retreat
2026-10-16 - 2026-10-18
Take a break from the chaos of our world and allow yourself time to rest and reconnect- with nature, each other, and with yourself.
Registration
Registration Status: Open now!
Registration deadline: October 2, 2026
Cost
Adult Double Occupancy: $260 per person
Adult Single Occupancy (limited availability): $400 per person
Youth 12-17: Free
Child 4-11: Free
Toddler 0-3: Free
Youth and children attend this retreat for free thanks to the generous donors to the Youth Scholarship Fund. Please consider making a donation during registration.
Please consider making a donation here as you register: onrealm.org/UUFA/give/youth
Registration Instructions

Go to The Mountain’s website
On the top right click on Registration Portal
Create an account
Create a profile for each member of your family
Under “Program Classifications” select ‘Church Retreats’
Select the appropriate program
Specify dietary needs, housing options and mobility needs
Specify roommate options. If this is left empty one will be assigned to you
Repeat this process for each member of your family
Submit payment. Your spot is not secured until payment has been submitted

Farm Event: Nurture with Nature - Bath Bombs and Salt Scrubs
2026-10-17 13:00 - 16:00
