Experience Overnight Camp at YMCA Camp Kirkwood
Unplug. Explore. Belong.
Campers ages 7-15 spend a week under the stars and experience the magic of overnight camp at YMCA Camp Kirkwood! Campers unplug from screens and routines to dive into days full of adventure, discovery, and laughter — and nights filled with campfires, cabin friends, and memories that last a lifetime.
Each camper stays in a cabin with 10–12 friends, guided by two caring counselors who make camp feel like home. Throughout the week, campers design their own experience by choosing a major (their main focus area) and fun electives that match their interests — whether it’s paddling across the lake, hitting the archery range, exploring nature trails, or trying something completely new.
It’s more than just a week away — it’s a week of growth, connection, and pure summer fun you’ll never forget!
Did You Know?
YMCA of Southeastern NC members enjoy a 10% discount on camp. Click here to learn how you can become a member today!
Traditional Overnight Camp
Dates and Themes
Carnival Week: June 14-19
Step right up—the carnival has come to camp! This week is packed with colorful games and creative big-top fun. Campers will try their luck at silly midway contests, craft their own carnival creations, and join in laugh-filled competitions that bring the magic of the carnival to life. With bright decorations, tasty treats, and plenty of surprises, it’s sure to be a week of fun, friends, and unforgettable memories! Register for Carnival Week
Trailblazer Week: June 21-26
Strap on your boots and grab your binoculars—it’s time to explore the great outdoors! This week, campers become true Trailblazers as they discover the secrets of nature, learn survival skills, and protect the wild spaces around camp. From animal tracking and stargazing to campfire cooking and outdoor challenges, every day brings a new adventure in the world just beyond the trail. By week’s end, our explorers will earn their badges of courage, curiosity, and care for nature! Register for Trailblazer Week
Party in the USA Week: June 28-July 3
Wave your flags and wear your stars and stripes—it’s time to celebrate America, camp style! This week is bursting with red, white, and blue fun: patriotic crafts, all-American games, and team challenges that shine as bright as the fireworks. From parades to picnics, campers will celebrate freedom, friendship, and summer spirit in true USA fashion. It’s a week of pride, joy, and plenty of star-spangled memories! Register for USA Week
Legends in the Making Week: July 5-July 10
Every camper has a story. Every story has a hero. This summer, enter a world where magic is real and adventure awaits! Campers will journey through enchanted forests, train alongside mighty giants, learn spells from wise wizards, and uncover secrets with clever elves and daring fairies. Whether you're forging alliances, completing quests, or discovering your inner magic, you'll be writing your own legend for one magical moment at a time. Register for Legends in the Making Week
Spirit Week: July 12-17
Show your camp pride and get ready for a week full of wild themes, silly costumes, and endless energy! Each day brings a new surprise—crazy hair, wacky socks, backwards day, Kirkwood games and more. Campers will dress up, cheer loudly, and dive into spirited games and challenges that bring everyone together. With plenty of laughter, creativity, and team pride, Spirit Week is all about celebrating camp in the most fun and unforgettable way! Register for Spirit Week
Christmas in July Week: July 19-24
It may be summertime, but camp is getting merry and bright! Get ready for holiday games, frosty crafts, and plenty of festive cheer—without the snow. Campers will join in reindeer relays, unwrap surprise challenges, and spread joy with camp-style holiday fun. With stockings, jingles, and maybe even a visit from “Summer Santa”. It’s the perfect mix of sunshine and Christmas spirit! Register for Christmas Week
Shipwrecked Week: July 26-31
Ahoy mates! Our ship has run aground, and now it’s time to live like true pirates of the high seas. Campers will join their crews for treasure hunts, sea-worthy games, and daring challenges fit for buccaneers. From crafting pirate gear to testing their skills in swashbuckling contests, every day is packed with adventure, teamwork, and a splash of mischief. Raise the Jolly Roger—it’s going to be a week of legendary pirate fun! Register for Shipwrecked Week
International Week: August-2-7
Pack your bags, campers—we’re off on a trip around the world without ever leaving camp! Each day we’ll “visit” a new country through games, crafts, music, and traditions that showcase cultures from across the globe. Campers will work together to explore international challenges, taste a bit of global flavor, and celebrate the many ways people around the world live, play, and connect. It’s a week of discovery, adventure, and worldwide fun! Register for International Week
Leaders In Training Camp 
Age: 16 Years
Dates: Session 1: July 12-July 24 (weekend included)
Ready to take your camp experience to the next level? The Leaders in Training (LIT) program is your chance to grow as a leader, make an impact, and have an unforgettable summer alongside friends who share your passion and enthusiasm.
This two-week adventure is built for teens ready to move from camper to leader. Through hands-on activities, team challenges, service projects, and mentoring opportunities, you’ll develop real-world leadership skills that shine far beyond camp — at school, at home, and in your community.
Led by our passionate camp staff and directors, LITs will dive into what it truly means to lead with confidence, compassion, and character, exploring the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith in action.
By the end of your LIT experience, you won’t just have incredible memories — you’ll have the tools, friendships, and inspiration to step into any leadership role with purpose and heart.
Stay-Over Weekend
Our stayover option allows campers to remain at camp over the weekend between their first and second week at camp. During the weekend, campers get a long rest period, swim time, watch an outdoor movie and hang out with the other campers and counselors. You should only register for a stayover weekend if you are registered for 2 CONSECUTIVE weeks of camp. Stayover weekend is included with LIT registration.
Cost: $175, with $25 deposit going toward your balance
- Session 1 June 26-28
- Session 2 July 17-19
- Session 3 July 31-Aug 2
Overnight Mini Camp - Spring Break
Age: 5-9
Dates: April 6-8, 2026
Looking for a first overnight camp experience that feels exciting and supportive? Spring Break Mini Camp offers a shorter stay designed to help campers grow confidence while having a whole lot of fun.
Over three days and two nights, campers are guided by caring, experienced staff as they try classic camp activities, build friendships, and practice being away from home in a safe, nurturing environment. Mini Camp is ideal for first-time campers who aren’t quite ready for a full week and campers but are eager to explore independence, responsibility, and adventure.
It’s the perfect first step into camp and a great way to see your camper shine
Overnight Schedule Sample
