Day Camp
Located on 1.7 miles of pristine Lake Wylie shoreline in South Carolina, YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s day camp for boys and girls (ages 6+) provides ideal backdrop for discovering new things, creating new friendships and memories. Our beautiful 100-acre facility boasts a high ropes course, zip line, alpine tower, two swimming pools and over 20 Sunfish sailboats.
Overnight Camp
Adventures on both land and water, traditional overnight camp includes activities like wakeboarding, kayaking, paddle boarding, challenge courses, and horseback riding. These sessions are open to campers aged 7-16 years old. Click Learn More for 2025 Camp Packing List and Parent Handbook.
School Year Programs
Find Fresh Ways to Learn & Grow This School Year
The pristine Lake Wylie shoreline and wooded landscape provide the perfect backdrop for a year of discovery and development. With programs for individual students and entire families, everyone has the opportunity to thrive at Camp Thunderbird.
Field Trips
YMCA Camp Thunderbird's Environmental Education Center offers more than twenty-five different nature or outdoor adventure education classes that align with national curriculum standards for grades K-12. Located on 1.7 miles of pristine Lake Wylie shoreline in South Carolina, our setting provides an ideal classroom for enriching education experiences.
Retreats and Rentals
Retreats & Events
We cater to all groups – school, church, civic, corporate, men only, women only, youth, weddings and more. YMCA Camp Thunderbird is a top choice for any type of gathering.
Southern Living Recognition
We are deeply honored and grateful to be recognized by Southern Living, celebrating the spirit of nostalgic summer camps that continue to shape generations. Check out the article "8 Nostalgic Southern Summer Camps That Feel Straight Out Of The Movies" below!
The Leaders in Training (LIT) Program
YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s Leaders in Training (LIT) program gives teens ages 13–15 an exciting chance to grow as confident, capable leaders while enjoying an unforgettable summer. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and new responsibilities, participants develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in a fun, supportive environment. Whether guiding younger campers, taking on leadership roles at camp, or building life skills that last beyond summer, this program prepares teens to step into the world with confidence and purpose.
Don’t miss out – fill out your interest form today, and our team will connect with you soon!
The Counselor in Training (CIT) Program
The Counselor in Training (CIT) Program at Camp Thunderbird is your backstage pass to leadership, adventure, and serious fun!
Designed for rising high school juniors, this program gives you the inside scoop on what it’s like to be a real Camp Thunderbird staff member. You’ll build awesome leadership skills, boost your confidence, and make memories that go way beyond summer. Whether you're leading activities at camp, taking charge at school, or making a difference in your community - you’ll be ready.
Thank you for your interest - applications are now closed for Summer 2026.
Upcoming Camp Events
Holiday Tree Lighting
Camp Scholarship Application
Every child benefits from the magic of camp. Through donor-supported scholarships, we offer camp financial assistance to families who qualify.
Complete one form per family to apply for assistance for Overnight Camp at Camp Thunderbird for Summer 2026.