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Founded by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, the concept behind Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge originated from a desire to offer a unique venue for youth that would build upon the success of nationally recognized Camp Thunderbird, founded in 1936 by the YMCA.
In 1988, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte appointed a committee comprised of YMCA board members and staff, as well as leading area citizens and volunteers, to explore the prospect of starting a new camping program in the North Carolina mountains.
The land for Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge was purchased in 1994 from the Broyhill family. The family believed in the camps ability to create transformative experiences for children and also gave generously. The lake at Camp Harrison is named in their honor.
“The Ridge” opened in 1996 as an Adventure Camp with only 3 staff members and 14 teens participating in rock climbing, canoeing, backpacking and other outdoor adventures. The camp was later renamed Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge after Mr. Frank Harrison an Executive of Coca Cola Bottling Company. The name Herring Ridge came from Mr. Leonard & Rose Herring, Leonard was an Executive at Lowe's.
A result of many years of planning and hard work by dedicated individuals and donors, Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge opened its doors to over 700 campers in 2004. As word of Camp Harrison's quality programs and caring staff spread, the enrollment has steadily grown. We are expecting over 1,000 campers in the summer of 2010.
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