(MORE GOING THAN SHOWING -- EVENT IS CROSS-POSTED)
This Memorial Weekend, we will be tucked-away deep within the breathtaking beauty of the Joyce Kilmer Wilderness, a place that feels almost untouched by time… a place where towering hardwood giants stretch toward the heavens, crystal-clear mountain streams wind through the forest, and the noise of everyday life fades into stillness. Joyce Kilmer is known for being one of the last untouched, virgin forests east of the Mississippi River. Our basecamp will be just a few minutes away at the Rattler Ford Campground positioned along a beautiful trout stream, known as Santeetlah Creek.
This isn’t just a getaway. It’s a reset. It’s where meaningful conversations replace small talk. Where laughter around a campfire turns strangers into friends. Where worship feels more personal, more real — because you’re surrounded by the very creation that magnifies the glory of God.
NEW TO ECHO: If you’re thinking, “I don’t know anyone… this might be awkward,” let us put that to rest right now. Echo is built on Christ-centered community. You’ll be welcomed, known, and included from the moment you arrive — and you’ll leave feeling connected, encouraged, and spiritually refreshed. You may come feeling alone, but you will leave feeling like you belong.
DATE: Memorial Day Weekend – (Friday, May 22nd – Monday, May 25th)
WE ARE ON RAIN OR SHINE
SPOTS ARE VERY LIMITED AND MAY GO QUICKLY
SPECIAL PRICE FOR FIRST TIMERS: If you’ve never been on an Echo retreat before, you have a special price of ONLY $49.95! You can’t stay home for that price!
PRICE: $129.95 (Includes all camping fees, meals, snacks and drinks)
REGISTRATION LINK: https://tinyurl.com/MemorialDayCamping
REGISTRATION LINK FOR FIRST-TIMERS: https://tinyurl.com/MemorialDayFirstTimers
REFUNDS: Reservations are non-refundable after Friday, May 8th. Unfortunately, last minute cancellations have been very hard to refill.
ADDRESS: GPS Coordinates (35.3607, -83.9154) Robbinsville, NC 28771
HIKING LEVEL- D1-D2+. Hiking rain or shine.
TEMPERATURES: Prepare for warm temps!! Average Day temps 70s, Night 60s.
BATHROOMS: Yes, there is a warm water shower in the park!
WHAT TO BRING: 2 pairs of shoes in case one gets wet. Shorts, pants, Long and Short Sleeve Shirts, Sleeping Bag, PAD (NO BIGGER THAN A TWIN), Pillow, Flashlight, Jacket, Raincoat, daypack, towel, toiletries, camera, Bible.
OPTIONAL TO BRING: Hiking poles, Camp chair, Bug spray, Sunblock
TENTS: You may bring your own or you can borrow one from us!
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Animals and anything that makes noise while we sleep. No alcohol/tobacco.
FOOD MENU: (menu subject to change)
•Friday Dinner: Mushroom Swiss Burgers with all the fix’ins.
•Saturday Breakfast – Bacon, Eggs and Hashbrowns/Grits with salsa and cheese. Lunch – Sandwiches with all the fix’ins. Dinner – Fajita Nachos with beans and rice.
•Sunday Breakfast- Gourmet Pancakes with Sausage or Ham. Lunch – Tuna Salad & Broccoli Salad. Dinner: Spaghetti with meat sauce and salad.
•Monday Breakfast- Cereal, fruit, oatmeal and grits.
DRINKS/SNACKS: We provide coffee/cream/milk, tea, hot chocolate, Orange Juice, soft drinks, water/seltzer, fruit, chips and cookies, smores.
(All Echo events are non-alcoholic)
CARPOOLING: is the best way to meet and get to know people! Parking at someone's house is best. We will coordinate via email 10 days before we leave.
KEEP IN MIND: that there are always dangerous elements when out in nature: Cliffs, weather, water, animals, insects, reptiles, falling limbs or rocks, Poison Ivy, Oak, Sumac, etc. Trails may be un-maintained, slippery, icy, rocky and have steep embankments. Shoes may get muddy or wet. Many times the woods are your only bathroom.
WAIVER: By attending, each person assumes all responsibility and liability for themselves and their actions and hereby releases Echo Ministries, its employees, directors, officers, agents, and volunteers from any and all liability resulting from any loss, injury, illness, damages, or death, while attending, participating or volunteering in this event. If you make payment for someone else, make sure that they receive this information and they understand and agree to all aspects of it, otherwise you’re responsible for them.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Greg Ford at Gregford@echoministries.com 770-316-9200
