Eastover, SC
Camp Operations Director Erick Ochs is driven to help and empower people, cultivated by a 28-year career in the US Army where he honed his skills as a leader. He holds a Master's degree in Education from Liberty University and focuses on the daily and short-term operations of Camp Cole, allowing senior leadership to focus on strategic growth and partnership.
Explore on the camp’s website ↗"Camp Cole has taught me that no matter where you come from, we can all be family." — Camper, Age 13
"Going into my first week I was super nervous, but I quickly found it a place where I can be whoever I want to be and everyone will accept and love me for it. I am so, so thankful that God brought Camp Cole into my life. Thank you so much for creating such a magic place where not only the kids can be kids, but we can be kids, too." — Ellis, Counselor
Jump in the water, paddle a kayak, steer a canoe, or learn to paddleboard! Our certified lifeguards and outdoor adventure specialists ensure every camper safely experiences the thrill of Peter's Pond. Feel like relaxing? You can do that, too! Take a break on Jake's Dock, build sandcastles on the beach, or read a book in the Fortson Family Gazebo. Waterfront Adventures runs mid-March through September.
We foster a safe and welcoming environment where administering medication or dialysis is as routine as swimming and fishing. We go above and beyond to meet the needs of every camper, and we do it with the help of seasoned and caring healthcare professionals who specialize in various diagnoses. Don't think for a second you can't swim, fish, play games, and sing at the top of your lungs around a campfire. Camp Cole exists so YOU CAN!
Learn the art and science of archery, and embrace your inner Merida, Katniss, or Robin Hood. Our seasoned instructors guide campers through every step, including safety, form, discipline, and skill development. Archery improves hand-eye coordination, enhances balance and confidence, and relieves stress.
Art Leader Cam Moore believes art is for everyone and sees creativity as a powerful tool for building confidence and connection. He loves helping campers and guests explore self-expression in ways that feel welcoming, playful, and accessible. For Cam, the most meaningful part of his work is watching people grow more confident through creativity. You can almost always find him in the Art Studio in the Activity Center, teaching and creating fun, therapeutic art experiences for Camp Cole campers.
2026-12-04 – 2026-12-06
Partner-led by Original Design. Part of a year-long mentorship program.
Dates, rates & eligibility ↗2026-11-14 – 2026-11-14
Partner-led by Original Design. Single-day event per calendar listing.
Dates, rates & eligibility ↗Campers groom, observe, and feed chickens and goats. They also collect eggs! They explore different ecosystems on our Nature Trail, choose seasonal items to cook from our garden, and learn to make earth-friendly arts and crafts like clay pinch pots.
Explore on the camp’s website ↗We opened the 20,000-square-foot Southeastern Freight Lines Activity Center in 2024 to provide more 'Inside Magic' space for campers and groups during inclement weather. The Center includes a gymnasium, stage, movement studio, sensory gym, canteen, breakout rooms, staff break room, and two porches.
Explore on the camp’s website ↗The cabins have innovated recessed bunk beds, a common space with comfortable seating, and shared bathrooms and showers. There are a few additional sleeping quarters in the staff cabin and in the medical care facility. All housing accommodations are available for year-round use having AC and heating capabilities.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗Groups have a variety of meal packages to choose from: the All Southern Way (breakfast paid for by Camp Cole), a Hybrid option combining Southern Way meals with partner-supplied outside food such as Lizards Thicket or Chick-fil-A, or an All Outside Food option where the partner camp is responsible for all supplies and clean-up.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗Just because you can't talk on the phone to your camper while they are here doesn't mean you can't communicate with them! Campers LOVE receiving letters from home so be sure to plan in advance for this prior to drop off! Camp Cole uses WALDO to share pictures throughout camp. You will receive information on how to sign up and view pictures at camper drop-off.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗A camper or campers are NEVER to be left alone unsupervised. We recommend a 1:7 adult-to-youth ratio. For the safety of minors, we require that all adults be screened with a criminal background check and name ran through the national sex offender registry. Training must be provided to all adults regarding the 'rule of three,' minimizing the potential of an adult being one-on-one with a camper when out of the sight of others.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗