90 Years of Unforgettable Adventures
Just 30 minutes from Charlotte, YMCA Camp Thunderbird stretches across nearly two miles of scenic Lake Wylie shoreline, providing the perfect setting for life-changing experiences. For 90 years, our camp has helped kids cultivate confidence, independence, self-discipline, and empathy while embracing new challenges and developing lifelong friendships. Campers can expect exciting adventures in a safe and nurturing environment where they can be their best selves. Through shared experiences, they build meaningful connections, celebrate differences, and create memories that last a lifetime. Many arrive as guests but leave as family. When traditional overnight and day camps are not in session, YMCA Camp Thunderbird offers a variety of school-year programs and a retreat center for schools, businesses, and organizations. Whether for a summer of adventure or a customized group retreat, Camp Thunderbird is where growth, connection, and discovery come to life.
YMCA Camp Thunderbird
YMCA Camp Thunderbird is where kids come to explore, grow, and thrive. With activities like wakeboarding, horseback riding, waterskiing, and outdoor living skills, campers experience adventure on both land and water. All set on a beautiful lakeshore campus. It’s the perfect place to build confidence, discover new interests, and form lasting friendships in a supportive and dynamic environment.
State of the Art Amenities
Meet the Staff
Crystal Little, Interim Executive Director
Sara Loach, Sales and Services Coordinator
Samuel Obando, Day Camp and Adventure Guides Director
Hunter Goodhart, Associate Day Camp and Adventure Guides Director
I take on the day to day operations of Day Camp and the hiring of that staff team, as well as overseeing our Leaders In Training program, Day Camp scholarships, and Adventure Guides recruitment and events.
Sarah Murphy, Conference and Retreat Director
I help schedule events and groups to come and enjoy the magic of camp in the off-season!
Bee Lacy, Association Challenge Course Manager
I manage the challenge courses across all YMCA of Greater Charlotte sites, ensuring smooth operations and engaging experiences.
Christy Schoonmaker, Camp Sales & Service Manager
As a member of the management team, I help work with parents and families through the registration process and handle various back-office tasks within the business operations of camp.
Heather Brittian, Community Finance Director
Lexie Ratliff, Associate Resident Camp Director
I lead our Cabin Life, Overnight Camp Scholarship, and Counselor in Training (CIT) programs.
Liz Lewis, Associate Resident Camp Director
I manage the staffing and programming for resident camp!
Mary Cate Marchert, Equestrian Program Director
I oversee the care of our herd and all programming happening at the ThunderBarn; year-round-riding lessons, camp horseback add-on, and equine education opportunities.
Alexis Garrick, Director of Community and Membership Initiatives
I manage community engagement, membership programs, and event planning at YMCA Camp Thunderbird, creating year-round meaningful experiences for families and members.
Maggie Keller, Financial Development Director
I work with community members to connect them with their passion for youth development and supporting the impactful work done at Camp Thunderbird & Camp Harrison.
Sharon Hinson, Director of Administrative & Volunteer Services
I manage business office operations and lead the sales team to drive performance and growth.
Haley Dickinson, Director of Environmental Education
I plan field trips for over 100 regional schools so that we can bring students from the surrounding areas to camp to experience outdoor education.
Work at Camp Thunderbird
Teen Leadership Day Camp
YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s Leaders in Training (LIT) program gives campers ages 13-15 the opportunity to grow as confident, capable leaders while having an unforgettable summer. Offered through our Day Camp, this progressive program provides hands-on experiences, mentorship, and new responsibilities that help teens build leadership skills and independence.
Each level of LIT brings unique challenges and opportunities, allowing teens to develop teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills in a fun and supportive environment. Whether guiding younger campers, taking on new roles, or learning valuable life skills, participants leave with a stronger sense of confidence and readiness for future leadership opportunities.
If you're interested in our Leaders in Training program, we encourage you to fill out an interest form, and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.
Scholarship Application
We will never turn anyone away due to financial need, We are committed to being a Y for all.