All Things Appalachia: History of Summer Camps

“History of Summer Camps”
with Keystone Camp Owner & Director Page Lemel
Thursday, August 6
6-7 pm
Rogow Room

Fourth-generation camp owner and director Page Lemel will explore the history of local summer camps, their impact, and the many stories that have led to Transylvania County being part of the greatest density of summer camps in the nation.

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Transylvania County has one of the highest concentrations of summer camps in the nation. With mountains, forests, and rivers perfectly suited to outdoor adventure, the area has introduced generations of children to independence, friendship, and the transformative power of nature. Lemel will explore the history of local camps from the early 1900s to the present and share insights into how the camp experience has shaped countless lives.

Lemel is the fourth-generation director of Keystone Camp, her family’s camp in Brevard. She grew up at Keystone, spending her summers as a camper, counselor, and Head Counselor before taking over the director role from her father, Bill Ives, in 1984. A graduate of Duke University, Lemel continues her family’s legacy of leadership in camping while also serving on various community boards in Brevard and Transylvania County. She is also an avid gardener who can often be found tending to the camp’s landscape.