Programs and Events

Reconnect, Explore, and Unwind at YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s Family Weekend Camps

Escape the routine and spend a meaningful weekend together at YMCA Camp Thunderbird. Family Weekend Camps are designed for adventure, relaxation, and quality time, giving families and friends the chance to unplug, try new activities, and create lasting memories in a beautiful outdoor setting.  

Each year, we offer specialty weekends that bring families together for unique experiences:  

• Mother’s Day Family Camp Celebrate and spend quality time together with special activities designed for families.  
• Alumni Reunion Weekend Reconnect with old friends, relive camp traditions, and make new memories.  
• Labor Day Family Camp
• Close out summer with outdoor adventures, time on the lake, and classic camp fun.  

From thrilling challenges like zip lining and archery to peaceful moments paddling on the lake or gathering around the campfire, every experience strengthens connections and encourages exploration. With a balance of independent and staff-led activities, each weekend offers something for every age and interest.  

The All-Inclusive Family Camp Experience Includes:

• Private cabin accommodations (duplex-style, one side per family)  
• All meals provided, plus coffee and snacks available throughout the day  
• A variety of independent and staff-led camp activities  
• Expert instruction and all necessary gear for activities  
• Nightly social hour and evening campfires  
• Access to activities such as zip lining, aerial adventure course, archery, tubing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, tennis, putt-putt golf, field sports, riflery, tree climbing, pony rides, and swimming  
• Base pricing includes up to four individuals (any mix of adults and children), with additional spots available for a small fee  
• Children under three attend at no cost  

Whether you're looking to step away from the rush of daily life, introduce loved ones to camp traditions, or simply enjoy time outdoors together, Family Weekend Camps provide the perfect opportunity to refresh, reconnect, and recharge.  

Spots are limited—reserve your unforgettable weekend today! 

Escape the routine and spend a  weekend together at YMCA Camp Thunderbird. Family Weekend Camps are designed for adventure, relaxation, and quality time, giving families and friends the chance to unplug, try new activities, and create lasting memories in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Each year, we offer specialty weekends that bring families together for unique experiences:

• Mother’s Day Family Camp – Celebrate and spend quality time together with special activities designed for families.
• Alumni Reunion Weekend – Reconnect with old friends, relive camp traditions, and make new memories.
• Labor Day Family Camp – Close out summer with outdoor adventures, time on the lake, and classic camp fun.

From thrilling challenges like zip lining and archery to peaceful moments paddling on the lake or gathering around the campfire, every experience strengthens connections and encourages exploration. With a balance of independent and staff-led activities, each weekend offers something for every age and interest.

The All-Inclusive Family Camp Experience Includes:

• Private cabin accommodations (duplex-style, one side per family)
• All meals provided, plus coffee and snacks available throughout the day
• A variety of independent and staff-led camp activities
• Expert instruction and all necessary gear for activities
• Nightly social hour and evening campfires
• Access to activities such as zip lining, aerial adventure course, archery, tubing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, tennis, putt-putt golf, field sports, riflery, tree climbing, pony rides, and swimming
• Base pricing includes up to four individuals (any mix of adults and children), with additional spots available for a small fee
• Children under three attend at no cost                                                     

Whether you're looking to step away from the busyness of daily life, introduce loved ones to camp traditions, or simply enjoy time outdoors together, Family Weekend Camps provide the perfect opportunity to refresh, reconnect, and recharge.

Spots are limited—reserve your unforgettable weekend today!

YScholars provides a dynamic and engaging educational experience for students seeking supplemental learning outside of traditional classrooms. Designed to enhance homeschool education, YScholars offers a well-rounded curriculum that combines core academics, physical education, and enrichment activities in an interactive and supportive environment.  

Why Choose YScholars?

• Challenging core academic courses that strengthen skills in key subject areas through structured, engaging lessons  
• Invigorating physical education to keep students active and promote overall wellness with interactive fitness activities  
• Enrichment opportunities that allow students to explore interests and develop new skills through hands-on learning  
• A flexible learning environment designed to complement and enhance homeschool education  
• Social and peer interaction to connect with other homeschool families and build friendships in a supportive setting  

Find the best fit for your child’s education—explore YScholars at a YMCA location near you! 

YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s equestrian program offers a well-rounded horseback riding experience for riders of all skill levels. Whether you're an experienced equestrian looking to refine your technique or a beginner getting in the saddle for the first time, our certified instructors and well-trained horses provide a safe, supportive, and educational environment.  

Our program focuses on building strong horsemanship skills both on the ground and in the saddle. Riders develop confidence, balance, and control while learning essential skills such as grooming, tacking, and groundwork.  

Lessons are primarily taught in the English riding discipline and cover fundamental riding principles with opportunities to advance in:  

• Trotting and cantering techniques  
• Pole courses and jumping
• Developing proper balance, posture, and control  
• Understanding horse behavior and care  

At Camp Thunderbird, safety, confidence, and skill progression are at the core of every lesson. Whether exploring new riding techniques or advancing to more challenging exercises, campers leave with a deeper connection to horses and improved equestrian skills.  

Come ride with us and experience the joy of horseback riding in a fun and engaging camp environment!

Hands-On Learning at YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s Environmental Education Center  

YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s Environmental Education Center offers more than 25 hands-on, nature-based and outdoor adventure classes designed for grades K-12. Aligned with national curriculum standards, our programs provide immersive, real-world learning experiences that enhance classroom instruction and inspire curiosity.  

Located on 1.7 miles of Lake Wylie shoreline in South Carolina, our outdoor classroom creates the perfect setting for students to explore ecosystems, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in interactive environmental studies.  

The Environmental Education Center is dedicated to:  

• Fostering a respect for the natural world and social responsibility
• Developing problem-solving and leadership skills through hands-on learning  
• Building confidence, teamwork, and decision-making abilities in an engaging environment  

We offer customized single-day and overnight programs to meet the unique needs of schools and organizations. Through experiential learning, students gain a deeper understanding of the environment while developing essential life skills that extend beyond the classroom.  

Discover how outdoor education at Camp Thunderbird can impact your environmental curriculum.