Keeping Up With Camp Kirkwood

Camp Kirkwood Memories to Fill Your Photo Frames

As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, we can feel it — summer is right around the corner! At YMCA Camp Kirkwood, that means one thing: unforgettable adventures, new friendships, and moments that turn into lifelong memories for kids of all ages.

Whether it’s their first time away from home or a long-awaited return to their favorite summer spot, Camp Kirkwood is the perfect place for campers to grow, explore, and thrive.

Not sure what makes Camp Kirkwood so special? Check out our Top 6 Reasons to Visit Camp Kirkwood by clicking the button below — you just might feel the magic yourself!

Top 6 Reasons to Come to Camp Kirkwood!

Upcoming Open House Events!

At Camp Kirkwood

Come meet our friendly staff, tour our amazing facilities, and learn about all of the fun activities we have planned for this summer! See upcoming open house dates below!

Sunday, April 13

1pm-4pm

Sunday, May 4

1pm-4pm

At 2015 Camp Kirkwood Rd

Watha, NC 28478

Can't Make it to Open House?

Come See Us at Healthy Kids Day in Wilmington or Clinton!

Saturday, April 26

Wilmington Healthy Kids Day

9:30am - 1:00pm

Empie Park

3405 Park Ave

Wilmington, NC 28403

Clinton Healthy Kids Day

10:00am - 1:00pm

Royal Lane Park

610 Royal Ln

Clinton, NC 28328

Learn More

Meet Some of the Camp Kirkwood Team!

De-Quan Williams

Director of Outdoor Aquatics and Retreats

We’re thrilled to welcome De-Quan Williams as our new Director of Outdoor Aquatics and Retreats! With over a decade of experience in camp leadership, he’s led adventure programs, mentored staff, and built strong camp communities at Camp Bob Cooper, YMCA Camp Greenville, and YMCA Camp Willson.

De-Quan has spent the last 12 summers at camp and is passionate about creating meaningful outdoor experiences. When he’s not leading programs, he loves talking about sports, board games, and movies—so be sure to say hello!

Katrina Harrison

Camp Engagement and Registration Coordinator

We are so excited to welcome Katrina Harrison as our new Camp Engagement and Registration Coordinator! Katrina has her master’s in public administration with a focus in nonprofit management. Her passions include helping others, and she says the best way she can do that is by being an advocate for her community.

Katrina is always willing and eager to help, and if she personally cannot help you, then she is always happy to point you in the right direction! When she's not at work, Katrina loves watching her favorite comfort movie Hairspray, being a "cat mom," and hanging out with her niece and nephew.

Overnight Camp at YMCA Camp Kirkwood!

Unplug from everyday life and grow in self-confidence, while seeking adventure and connecting with others. Campers will stay in a cabin with 10-12 other campers, always supported by two qualified counselors.

Overnight campers have a fully elective schedule. Campers go to the same major and minor every day, allowing them to gain skill progression, rotate through electives and enjoy pool, open waterfront, and cabin activities daily. Campers choose one Major, Minor and Elective. All campers will get a chance to go down the zipline, try the v-swing, swim and boat outside of their majors and minors activities.

Majors

Campers will participate in a 2-hour session each morning. During this time, campers get a chance to slow down, connect with new friends and focus on skill progression while they learn and grow through various activities and challenges.

Minors

Minors are a one-hour activity block every day. This lets campers explore other interests they may have and time to learn the fundamentals of that specific area.

Electives

Campers can choose four different electives throughout the week. This is a time for campers to try new things and grow in character, confidence, and gain resilience. Electives range from traditional camp activities to a unique variety led by our talented staff.

Please see below for the dates and theme of each week:

Week 1: June 8 - 13, Wild Wild West

Week 2: June 15 – 20, Mystery Detective

Week 3: June 22 – 27, Outerspace

Week 4: June 29 – July 4, 4th of July/America

Week 5: July 6- July 11, Spirit Week

Week 6: July 13 – 18, International Week

Week 7: July 20 – 25, Christmas in July

Week 8: July 27 – August 1, Tropical Paradise

Week 9: August 3 – August 8, So you think you can CAMP!

Refer a Friend!

Invite your friends to camp with you and save big with a friend referral discount!

Everyone knows camp is better with friends. For a limited time only, you can earn a discount for every friend you refer who signs up for summer camp! Just tell your friend to mention your name when they register and we will apply your discount directly to your account.

Friend Referral Discount

Join the Camp Kirkwood Team!

Spending a summer working at YMCA Camp Kirkwood is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact. Staff gain leadership experience, build confidence, and make lasting friendships while guiding campers through outdoor activities like kayaking, ropes courses, and campfire nights. With meals and lodging included, you’ll be fully immersed in a fun, supportive community where every day brings new challenges and unforgettable memories. If you or someone you know is looking for a rewarding summer making a difference, Camp Kirkwood is the place to be! Visit our website to learn more!