YMCA of Greater Charlotte offers an exceptional range of summer camp programs for children ages 2-17, combining day camps and overnight adventures across 13 convenient Greater Charlotte locations. The organization operates two premier overnight camps: Camp Harrison, nestled on 2,000 acres of mountain wilderness in Boomer, NC, featuring paddleboarding, hiking, mountain biking, archery, aerial courses, animal feeding, beekeeping, and Farm to Feast activities; and Camp Thunderbird, located on sceniYMCA of Greater Charlotte offers an exceptional range of summer camp programs for children ages 2-17, combining day camps and overnight adventures across 13 convenient Greater Charlotte locations. The organization operates two premier overnight camps: Camp Harrison, nestled on 2,000 acres of mountain wilderness in Boomer, NC, featuring paddleboarding, hiking, mountain biking, archery, aerial courses, animal feeding, beekeeping, and Farm to Feast activities; and Camp Thunderbird, located on scenic Lake Wylie just minutes from Charlotte, offering wakeboarding, sailing, aerial courses, archery, and horseback riding. Both overnight camps emphasize building confidence, independence, lifelong friendships, and essential life skills through immersive outdoor adventure activities.
The day camp program is equally diverse, with specialized options including Classic Day Camp, Preschool Camp (ages 2-5), Teen Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, Sports Camp, Swim Camp, Arts & STEAM Camp, Dance Camp, and Adaptive Camp for children with diverse abilities. Programs are offered in flexible formats with full-day options (7:00 AM – 6:00 PM) and half-day options for school-age children (7:00 AM – 12:30 PM or 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM) and preschoolers (4-hour morning sessions). Gender-separated overnight camp sessions are available, allowing campers to choose their preferred environment.
All programs emphasize character development, teamwork, and creating lasting memories through activities ranging from traditional sports and swimming to creative arts, STEAM projects, and faith-centered experiences. The YMCA’s commitment to accessibility is evident through scholarship applications for families with financial need and acceptance of voucher payments at three NC DHHS-licensed sites.
$1,270-$4,020 depending on program type and duration. Mini Camp (3-4 days, ages 6-9): $1,270; Classic Camp (6-7 days, ages 6-16): $1,675; Jr. Teen/Teen (2 weeks, ages 11-16): $3,350; LIT (3 weeks, ages 16-17): $4,020. Scholarships available for families with financial need.
Location:
4625 Piedmont Row Dr #155, Charlotte, NC 28210
Schedule:
Summer 2026: June 14 – August 1. Mini Camp sessions: 3-4 days (multiple dates throughout summer). Classic Camp sessions: 6-7 days (weekly sessions). Jr. Teen/Teen sessions: 2 weeks (three 2-week sessions). LIT sessions: 3 weeks (two 3-week sessions). Day camps available across 13 locations with flexible full-day and half-day options.
