North Carolina, or NC for short, is a magical land where mountains kiss the sky and beaches whisper to the ocean. It's a place where wild ponies run free on islands, and shiny skyscrapers reach for the stars in bustling cities. In this wonderland, there's a quirky group of kids, known as the "Green Thumb Brigade". These kids are not your ordinary run-of-the-mill children. Oh, no! They are garden wizards, plant whisperers, and flower fairies. Their mission? To turn every backyard, schoolyard, and even some rooftops, into a colorful, fragrant paradise. Leading the brigade is a character as quirky as they come, Soil Sally. Don't let her name fool you, though. She might sound like she's all about dirt, but she's also a master of the green. With a garden hoe in one hand, a watering can in the other, and an army of earthworms that follow her every command, she guides our little gardening warriors. Together, they plant sunflowers that reach up to tickle the sun, create vegetable patches that make even the grumpiest broccoli-hater drool, and breed roses so fragrant that bees come from miles around. These children from North Carolina, with their muddy knees and sun-kissed cheeks, transform the world around them one seed at a time. So if ever you're in NC, and you see a tomato plant growing in an old cowboy boot or a smiling sunflower winking at you from a rooftop, you'll know the Green Thumb Brigade has been there. And if you ever fancy joining them, Soil Sally and her earthworm sidekicks are always looking for new recruits.
Read morebest gardening programs in Raleigh, NC
Nestled in 178 acres of lush woodland is a serene escape from the city, a place fondly known as Camp Swamp. This overnight Christian camp, located just two hours east of bustling Atlanta, has been serving as a peaceful retreat since 1992. We like to think of it as our own "little slice of heaven," offering a respite from the daily hustle and bustle, and inviting people to reconnect with nature and their spirituality. Our primary offering is a week-long summer camp, but we've expanded over the years to include more than just summer fun. As part of our mission to support families and churches, we now also host three family camps throughout the year, as well as four parent/child retreats. These events offer a chance for families to bond, parents to connect with their children, and individuals to grow in their faith. Moreover, our facilities are not exclusive to our organized events. Camp Swamp also offers rentals to schools, churches, universities, sports teams, and even business groups. Whether you're planning a camp, a retreat, or a team-building excursion, our serene setting and well-equipped facilities provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
Parents looking for an outdoor summer camp experience for their children should consider signing them up for the Summer Garden Camps at the Arboretum. Campers will get to spend the week unplugged, learning, creating, playing and exploring the beautiful and diverse gardens. With camps for children from preschoolers to rising eighth graders, there’s something for everyone! Campers will gain an appreciation for nature while making friends and having fun. From playing games in the garden to exploring the unique attractions of the Arboretum, campers will find plenty of activities that will keep them engaged and entertained. The Summer Garden Camps provide a wonderful opportunity for campers to take a break from their screens and immerse themselves in nature. It’s a great way for children to learn, grow and make memories with friends while exploring the beauty of the Arboretum.