Day Camp Activities
In the Water. On the Land.
We design and provide a wide range of safe, enriching activities for campers that speak directly to their age, interest and abilities.
In similarly aged groups, campers rotate through activities under the leadership of our well-trained staff. Campers attend two land activities, two water activities and choose one elective. Electives follow a week-long format to allow for greater mastery and skill development.
Some of our excellent waterfront activities present the challenge of learning new skills while some are simply for fun.
Every camper participates with their group in two afternoon water activities that rotate daily. Each activity lasts 60 minutes.
- Banana Boat Rides
- Canoe & Kayaking
- Paddleboarding (ages 9 - 12)
- Sailing (ages 9 - 12)
- Shore Tour (ages 11 - 12)
- Swimming
- Water Toys (Blob, Aqua Tower)
- Wet Wylie Water Slide
Safety
All our waterfront staff are trained in CPR, First Aid and Lifeguarding. Boat drivers are U.S. Coast Guard certified. Specific staff receive additional training and certification depending on activity requirements. Staff continue to receive training throughout the summer to enhance their ability to provide a safe atmosphere while supervising our waterfront areas.
Every camper must participate in a swimming skills assessment in accordance with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.
Our land activities build new skills, confidence and allow for creative expression.
Every camper participates with their group in two morning land activities that rotate daily. Each activity lasts one hour.
- Archery
- Arts & Crafts
- Challenge Course (ages 7-12)
- Group Games
- Low Ropes Course
- Nature Studies
- Riflery
- Slingshots (ages 8-12)
- Sports
- Zip Line (ages 7-12)
Safety
All our land staff are trained in CPR and First Aid. Staff also receives specialized training and instructional methods from professional organizations such as the Camp Archery Association, the National Rifle Association, Association of Challenge Course Technology and the American Camping Association. Safety and quality instruction are paramount.
We divide campers into age appropriate co-ed groups. This helps every child grow physically, mentally and spiritually so that they may achieve their greatest potential.
Campers (ages 6 - 8) participate in the Younger Camp program. We structure activities progressively to challenge each child according to their age.
Campers (ages 9 - 12) participate in the Older Camp program. This program creates challenges and encourages development of personal goals.
Campers stay with their group’s counselor throughout the entire day. This program gives children an introduction to a wide variety of camp activities plus provides them the opportunity for creative expression.
Typical Day Camp Schedule
| 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM | Camper Drop-off/Rides In |
| 8:30 AM - 8:55 AM | Opening Ceremony and Devotion |
| 8:55 AM - 9:05 AM | Group Time & Attendance |
| 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Land Activity Period 1 |
| 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM | Land Activity Period 2 |
| 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Lunch |
| 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM | Change for Water Activities |
| 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM | Water Activity Period 1 |
| 1:35 PM - 2:35 PM | Water Activity Period 2 |
| 2:35 PM - 2:45 PM | Change for Electives |
| 2:50 PM - 3:10 PM | Canteen (Snack) |
| 3:15 PM - 4:10 PM | Elective Activity |
| 4:10 PM - 4:25 PM | Group Scoop |
| 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM | Closing Ceremony |
| 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Camper Pick-up/Rides Out |
Overnight Option
Friday
| 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Regular Camp Day |
| 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Dinner Provided by YMCA Camp Thunderbird |
| 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM | All-Camp Activities |
| 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM | Swimming and Canteen (Snack) |
| 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Evening Program and Movie |
| 10:00 PM | Bedtime in the Rec Hall |
Saturday
| 7:00 AM | Wake-up Call |
| 7:15 AM | Snack Breakfast Provided by YMCA Camp Thunderbird |
| 7:30 AM - 7:45 AM | Pick-up for All Campers at Rec Hall (7:30 AM) or New City Church (7:45 AM) |