guides

YMCA Camp Thunderbird Gives Kids Safe Socialization & Summer Magic

Just 30 Minutes from Charlotte

By YMCA Camp Thunderbird March 11, 2021


Editor's Note: My daughter attended Camp Thunderbird as a day camper last summer for her first time. It was in the thick of COVID, her sleep-away camp had been canceled and she wanted the experience she has had for so many years going to sleep-away camp. After learning about the safety measures Camp Thunderbird had put into place we sent her for a week. She had one of her best camp experiences ever and as a parent, I felt comfortable with the measures that had been put into place. Camp Thunderbird is truly a very special place, your children's will have a fantastic experience as an overnight or day camper at Camp Thunderbird~ Rebecca 


As our communities slowly reopen, many parents are eager to find opportunities for their children to get active, socialize and have fun. After a safe and successful summer in 2020, the YMCA will continue to operate its two Overnight Camps in the greater Charlotte community!

YMCA Camp Thunderbird, located on the sunny shores of Lake Wyle, SC, and just 30 minutes from Charlotte, continues to shine each year as a beacon to families seeking ways to give the best summer ever to their children. Recognized for adapting its overnight program this summer and providing a safe place for campers to stay amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, YMCA Camp Thunderbird continues to serve families across the country in a meaningful way.

Although some things will look different, kids will still form deep bonds, explore the outdoors, and have exciting experiences this summer! Campers get to experience outdoor adventure in an inclusive environment. YMCA Camp Thunderbird’s action-packed two-mile shoreline is the perfect backdrop for activities like:

  • Sailing
  • Water Skiing & Wakeboarding
  • Paddle Sports
  • Paintball
  • Water Toys
  • Horseback Riding
  • Swimming
  • Challenge Course
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Sports
  • Fishing
  • Pottery
  • Archery




Campers Will Have Fun While Staying Safe

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte has been adaptable and innovative to ensure their camper’s safety. YMCA Camp Thunderbird has implemented:

  • Facility Sanitation: The Y has hired extra staff to perform a thorough cleaning of all of their facilities. They will even disinfect every item that campers are going to share between each use.
  • Coronavirus Training for Staff: Every staff member participates in coronavirus-specific training during their 30-hour training plan.
  • Frequent Camper Health Checks: Campers will be monitored when they first get to camp and each day after that.
  • Personal Protective Equipment: All staff will wear face covers when indoors and when six feet of distance isn’t possible outdoors. 
  • Handwashing Stations: Handwashing stations have been installed all around Camp Thunderbird.

Follow Camp Thunderbird on Facebook and Instagram