Volunteer Work Week at Skyland Camp & Retreats
Pitch in, reconnect, and help prepare our historic Western North Carolina camp for a new season. With hard work, major fun, and some serious Skyland bonding, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss!
VOLUNTEERS MUST BE 21+
OPENING CAMP: MAY 13 – 17, 2027
CLOSING CAMP: SEPTEMBER 16 – 20, 2027
Building Community Through Service: What Volunteer Work Weekend Means at Skyland
Skyland’s Volunteer Work Weekend is a great way to reconnect with old friends, make new friends, and give back to the Skyland community. While annual projects vary, you can bet that there will be opportunities for cleaning, organizing, landscaping, painting, building, power washing, and more!! Whether you are a returning alumna, a parent, or simply a friend to Skyland, your hands-on contributions help preserve our legacy of wonder, joy, connection, and growth.
Volunteers are welcome to stay for the entire weekend or drop in and out as needed for their schedule! Please let us know during registration what dates you will be staying and if you will be lodging at Skyland.
Getting a little sweaty and a lot silly
What to Expect at Volunteer Work Weekend
Volunteers are welcome to arrive as early as Thursday evening. For those arriving on Thursday, supper will be on your own that night. We can happily recommend some amazing restaurants in Waynesville! All meals are provided Friday – Monday. Accommodations for those staying overnight will be in The Lodge and linens, pillows, and towels will be ready for you. Projects will include everything from landscaping and light construction to cleaning and more cleaning. Skyland will provide all of the tools and supplies for the weekend, you just need to show up in clothes that can get dirty! Volunteers do not need to be Skyland alumni. We welcome all volunteers who are willing to jump in and work with us for the weekend. We especially appreciate volunteers willing to sing camp songs and those with excellent s’more making skills!
Hands-On Impact
What Volunteer Work Weekend Means to Skyland
Volunteer Work Weekend is our favorite way to begin and end our summer seasons. The weekend is about more than cleaning camp. It is a living expression of Skyland’s multigenerational stewardship, where volunteers of many ages work together to maintain the character and charm of our cherished camp. As the group shares meals in The Lodge and swaps stories around the campfire, new friendships form and old bonds are renewed. This weekend is open to alumni, family members, and community supporters over 21 years of age who want to give back while soaking up the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and contributing to a legacy that has served Western North Carolina since 1917.
FAQS
Common Questions About Volunteer Work Week
What is Volunteer Work Weekend at Skyland?
Volunteer Work Weekend is a chance to give back to Skyland while reconnecting with old friends and building new relationships. It’s a hands-on, community-focused experience centered around preparing Skyland Hill for a successful summer season.
What types of projects will I be helping with?
Projects vary each year but typically include landscaping, painting, cleaning, organizing, and light building or maintenance work. Every task plays a role in preserving Skyland’s historic property and getting it ready for campers and retreats.
Do I have to stay for the entire weekend?
No, volunteers are welcome to join for the full weekend or come and go based on their schedule. Flexibility is part of the experience, and any time you can give is appreciated.
Are accommodations and meals provided?
Yes, lodging is available on-site in The Lodge, and meals are provided from Friday through Monday. Thursday arrivals are welcome, though dinner that evening is on your own. All linens and towels are provided for those staying on-site.
What should I pack?
Only pack items that you don't mind getting dirty. Your clothes and shoes should be comfortable, and although we get hot during the day, we recommend bringing layers for the chilly evenings and mornings.
