Best South Carolina Wilderness Camps Summer 2024 Directory

CAMP FACILITIES: We offer cabins with heat and bathrooms as well as fresh-air cabins.

30 cabins with heat, bathroom and bunk beds. 6 fresh-air (screen) cabins with bunk beds and access to a bath house.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Thunderbird is an unforgettable experience that includes adventure, fun, and friendship! Located just 17 miles from Charlotte, N.C., Camp Thunderbird has nationally recognized water programs, including wakeboarding and water skiing.

We offer 28 land activities including horseback riding, skating, high and low ropes courses, sports, and crafts. Our resident camp provides boys and girls an exciting, safe experience that they will remember for a lifetime.

American Camping Association accreditation and a 4:1 camper-to-counselor ratio creates an environment that helps children grow in spirit, mind, and body.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: The Counselor In Training (CIT) program at YMCA Camp Thunderbird is designed to provide leadership experiences specific to camp counseling to rising high school juniors. Though most program participants have attended camp as campers, this is not necessarily a prerequisite.

However, it should be noted that CIT selection is competitive. Candidates must submit a written application (available upon request through the camp office) by December 31, and will be interviewed by telephone during January and February. Candidates are advised of their status early in March.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Contact office for availability.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Labor Day Weekend

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Camp Thunderbird's Environmental Education program is conveniently located at YMCA Camp Thunderbird on Lake Wylie and offers more than 20 class topics taught by knowledgeable, exemplary staff.

During retreat weekends we offer an excellent team building program that can boost your team's productivity and morale while building upon each other's strengths. Our facilitators customize programs that accomplish your goals. Our team building experience focuses on communication, cooperation, and having fun as a team.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit our website for dates and rates: Our Camp Website Link: www.campthunderbird.org

CAMP FACILITIES: 32 cabins, covered outdoor lodge with with stage and sound system, recreation hall, dining hall, infirmary, outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts, rustic amphitheater (council ring), barn, lake for swimming and water sports, football/soccer field, slip-n-slide, climbing wall, volleyball area, gaga pit.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Established in 1956, Camp Chatuga is a privately owned traditional summer camp offering over 30 daily activities including horseback, water skiing, BMX bikes, crafts, drama, archery, riflery and sports. Depending on the camper's number of years at Chatuga and session choice, exciting day trips include rafting Section 3 of the Chattooga River, taking a canopy zipline tour, visiting a water park or showing one's speed and skills at an all-camp rollerskating party.

Each evening at Camp Chatuga includes a fun-filled, entertaining activity for all to enjoy. These may include theme parties/dances, carnivals, a Counselor Hunt, showing off your talent at Chatuga's Got Talent, or a giant shaving cream fight during Icky Olympics. 4 to 1 camper to counselor ratio for safety and personal attention. Wholesome, family atmosphere perfect for fun and personal growth through relationships and nature! Accredited by the American Camp Association.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Rising 10th and 11th graders do not register online. Rising 10th graders must apply to be Leaders-in-Training and rising 11th graders must apply to be Service Campers. Service Campers get discounted fees in exchange for some work. You may print and submit the LIT/SC application found under Dates, Rates and Forms on our website as these spots fill quickly.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): May 1 - 3

This active weekend for parents and children includes activities like Canoeing, Archery, Horseback, Crafts, evening programs, and porch time. Why should only kids have all the fun?! If you grew up attending camp, this is a wonderful way to share it with your child; if you are new to camp, come see what it’s all about. Family Camp is a great opportunity to spend quality time together in our beautiful rustic setting with all scheduling, cabin assignments, and hot meals included.

Family Camp runs Friday night May 1, through Sunday morning May 3. Registration is $180 per parent-child couple, plus $90 per additional adult. Each additional child receives a $40 discount after registration. We assign lodging based on family make-up; please let us know at registration if you want to room with a particular family.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Camp Chatuga accommodates retreat groups in the fall and spring.

Group Rental Includes:
Covered outdoor lodge with stage and sound system
Large 50 x 100 yard ballfield for athletic events
Dining hall that seats 200 with audio/visual capabilities
Large outdoor council ring with bench seating and campfire pit
Smaller campfire pit for a more intimate gathering
Recreation hall with games
Tennis courts
Basketball court
Volleyball net
Lake for swimming and canoeing

Lodging:
Cabins hold 4 to 10 guests, many with their own interior bathroom. We offer many different set-ups of cabins, from duplex-style to single units, all with bunk beds. Many of the cabins are “winterized” for fall and early spring reservations.

Meals:
Meal service is provided for groups of 30 or more for an additional fee per meal/per person. Groups of less than 30, meals can be negotiated.
For groups fewer than 30, we offer an outdoor grill, refrigeration, ice machine and sinks at no extra cost.

Rates:
Lodging: $25 a night per person
Meals: $8 per meal per person (all-you-can-eat)
For groups of 70 or more, additional activities are available, including archery, riflery, leader-led hikes, team-building, and swimming with certified lifeguards. Call for fee details.
We have a no-alcohol policy.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Rising 10th and 11th graders do not register online. Rising 10th graders must apply to be Leaders-in-Training and rising 11th graders must apply to be Service Campers. Service Campers get discounted fees in exchange for some work. You may print and submit the application found under Dates, Rates and Forms on our website as these spots fill quickly.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Horse Camp
June 7-13 (Girls only ages 12-15) $945

One Week (ages 6-16):
A1 June 14-20 $945
A2 June 21-27 $945
B1 June 28 - July 4 $945
B2 July 5-11 $945
C1 July 12-18 $945
C2 July 19-25 $945

Two Weeks (ages 6-16):
A June 14-27 $1890
B June 28 - July 11 $1890
C July 12-25 $1890

Three Weeks (ages 6-16):
BC1 June 28 - July 18 $2985
B2C July 5-25 $2985

Four Weeks (ages 6-16):
BC June 28 - July 25 $3930

CAMP FACILITIES: We are a primitive camping facilities with a picnic shelter and bathroom available at the entrance. We strive to develop wilderness self-reliance through survival training in a primitive forest setting.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: We are staffed by 2 certified Wilderness Survivalist Instructors, A Professional guide, and three classroom management instructors. The owner/operator is a trained EMT, Air Force Veteran, and has a Masters Degree in Business Administration. He has advanced training from Sigma III and Earthskills LLC wilderness survival schools. He is also a member of the National Association of Search and Rescue.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Courses and workshops are available in basic, intermdiate, and advanced wilderness survival, edible wild plants, and emergency prepardness.

OTHER CAMP INFO: There is an emergency brick and mortar shelter approximately half mile from the camp should an emergency arrive where campers need to be inside.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Summer Camps begin on June 18th and go on until August 10th 2018. See the website for courses, classes and workshop that are on going throughout the year.

CAMP FACILITIES: 18 platform tents and cabins, 2 lakes for swimming, blobbing, canoeing and fishing, hiking trails, outdoor basketball court, high and low ropes adventure course, climbing tower, gardens and chicken coup, dining hall, screened in pavilion/game room, archery course.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Gravatt is an affirming, Christian community where campers of all backgrounds and ages make friends, learn responsibility, become leaders, and grow in their understanding of themselves, their community, and their God-given gifts.

Specially selected and trained staff members work to nurture and develop campers' self-esteem, rather than competitive expertise in a particular sport or skill.

Elementary / Junior High / All Ages Camp Sessions: First through ninth graders are grouped by similar ages and participate in traditional summer camps activities. Sessions vary in length from six to ten nights.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Leaders-in-Training Leadership Development Program: Rising tenth graders live together in a cabin and participate in traditional camp activities. LIT's also participate in special leadership training and teambuilding. As skills and confidence increase, LIT's assist with leading some aspects of camp programs.

The LIT Program is a stepping stone for becoming a member of Camp Gravatt's staff but does not guarantee selection as for staff in future summers. The program spans two sessions with a break in between.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Faith camp is an experience that should be readily available for all children. A limited number of scholarships are available for campers with demonstrated financial need on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit our website or contact the office to obtain an application. Return prior to May 1 for priority consideration.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family Camp: Open to all ages from infant to senior citizen, Family Camp provides an opportunity for campers to experience a sample of camp life with a parent or trusted adult by their side. Make it a mother/daughter or father/son weekend or bring the whole family along for an overnight adventure. Sessions are one or two nights.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Spring Break Camp
April 14-18 1st-8th graders
$350

Family Camps
May 23-25, July 11-13 Children and Adults $180 for two family members; $60 for each additional ($300 max)

Elementary Camps June 25-July 1, July 3-9, July 26-August 1 Rising 1st-6th graders $485

Junior High Camps June 14-23 Rising 7th-9th graders $695

All Ages Camp August 3-9 Rising 1st-9th graders $460

Leaders In Training Leadership Development Camps June 25-July 9, July 26-August 9 Rising 10th-11th graders $750

CAMP FACILITIES: TBSS campus consists of 30 acres of beautiful forest with springs and a small lake. The property also connects to the Sumter National Forrest. There is a central camp with a fire pit, potable water station, outhouse, and other camp accommodations.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Check out our website for a complete list of dates.

CAMP FACILITIES: Camp Burnt Gin has 10 accessible cabins, a swimming pool, dining hall, sports field, camp out area, arts and crafts and nature hut, library, and a lake for boating and fishing.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Burnt Gin offers a close staff to camper ratio. The counselors are responsible for the supervision and the daily care of the campers. They assist the children with their adjustment to camp life, participation in camp activities and any medical or personal care needs. Three nurses are in residence and are responsible for medication administration, first aid and overseeing any medical treatments.

Camp Burnt Gin's mission is to enhance the quality of life for children with special health care need by providing a camp experience designed to improve self-esteem, independence and the skills necessary to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Camp Burnt Gin is accredited by the American Camp Association.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Camp Burnt Gin is offered at no charge to the child.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Camp Burnt Gin offers four six day sessions for children, 7-15 years of age; two six-day sessions for teens, 16-20 years of age and a four day camp for young adults, 21-25 year of age.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Camp Burnt Gin hires college age staff to work as camp counselors from June until August.  For further information, visit our website.

CAMP FACILITIES: 18 group cabins, health center, outdoor pool, dining hall, sand volleyball, three amphitheaters, two dock areas, lake for swimming, fishing, and boating, three rustic camping sites, covered picnic pavilion, shelter with built-in grill.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Odyssey is a fun, exciting week filled with cool activities, new friends and awesome staff! During the week, campers may participate in new adventures, including, but not limited to: archery, sailing, arts & crafts, overnight camping, swimming, canoeing, climbing tower and fishing. Campers also get to enjoy an overnight campout, cooking their food over an open flame and having a true outdoor adventure!

Housing is provided in comfortable cabins with 10 single beds for campers and supervising staff. Showers and bathrooms are located within each cabin. Cabin groups are determined by age, providing campers with opportunities to enjoy time with new friends. We have an on-site health center and employ nurses to work and live here during camp.

Camp Odyssey is a perfect program for first time campers, as well as 'veteran' campers who enjoy exciting activities in the outdoors and making new friends.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Discount for additional children from the same family.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
July 5-11 2015 Cost: $625 per camper, $525 for additional children from the same family

CAMP FACILITIES: Camp La Vida's cabins are arranged into 4 units. Within each unit is 1 unit building and 4 cabins with their own attached bathroom facilities. We also have a dining hall, staff housing, camp store, canteen, Multipurpose Building, World Mission Center, Administration Building, archery and riflery range, swimming pool, rock wall, flying squirrel, amphitheater, prayer garden, lake for fishing and canoeing, nature hut, pottery station, and recreation field.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp La Vida is a missions education camp located in the White Oak community between Winnsboro and Chester in Fairfield County, SC. Owned and operated by Woman’s Missionary Union, Auxiliary to South Carolina Baptist Convention, it has served Southern Baptist churches in our state since 1983.

Summer camps are held each summer for our WMU organizations: Girls in Action, Children in Action, Acteens, and Youth on Mission

Camps are held for girls only (5½ weeks) and coed (1½ weeks). We also have two Mother/Daughter Overnights and one Mother/Daughter Minicamp.

Camp La Vida is a missions education camp which seeks to provide an outdoor experience while educating children and youth about missions. While at camp, campers get to meet missionaries and hear about their experiences, while also getting to do fun outdoor activities like swimming, canoeing, riflery, archery, rock wall climbing, nature exploration, pottery, interpretive music, puppetry, camping out, and more!

Camp La Vida is open to churches and individuals affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Camp La Vida offers multiple summer staff positions. Included in that is our Cabin Leader-in-Training, a paid position for rising Freshman in college. These staff get to help lead campers in Bible Study, activities, worship and more! Junior Staff positions are also available for rising Juniors and Seniors in High School. Junior Staff attend one week as a camper, and then can volunteer up to three weeks following. More information can be found at Our Camp Website Link: www.camplavida.org

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): We offer two Mother/Daughter Minicamps and one Mother/Daughter Overnight camp. These are intended for 1st-3rd grade girls to attend camp with their mother/guardian to help introduce them to camp life.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Camp La Vida can be used by churches and groups within the South Carolina Baptist Convention for retreats, picnics, get aways, and more! Visit our website at Our Camp Website Link: www.scwmu.org to see all that Camp La Vida has to offer!

OTHER CAMP INFO: For Contact Information: Our Camp Website Link: www.scwmu.org

For other Frequently Asked Questions: Our Camp Website Link: www.scwmu.org

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
2016 Camp Costs
Rates are per person
Week camp: $230
Minicamp: $115
Overnight camp: $55

June 6-10 Girls 3rd-12th grade
June 13-17 Girls 3rd-6th grade
June 17-18 Mother/Daughter Overnight, girls 1st-3rd grade
June 20-22 Mother/Daughter Minicamp, girls 1st-3rd grade
June 22-24 Girls 2nd-12th grade
June 27-July 1 Girls 3rd-12th grade

July 8-9 Mother/Daughter Overnight, girls 1st-3rd grade
July 11-13 Girls 2nd-12th grade
July 13-15 Girls and Boys 2nd-12th grade
July 18-22 Girls and Boys 3rd-12th grade
July 25-29 Girls 3rd-12th grade

For more info visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.scwmu.org.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Camp summer staff is needed. Summer staff positions for women (8 weeks employment) and men (1 1/2 weeks employment)  are open for college freshman and up.

Junior Staff volunteer positions (up to 3 weeks volunteer service) are also available for rising Juniors and Seniors in high school.

Hiring begins each January. Visit Our Camp Website Link: www.scwmu.org to find applications and reference forms.

For Contact Information visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.scwmu.org.