Explore Camp, Explore the World
Located in the heart of Northern Minnesota on the serene shores of Lake Plantagenet, our camp offers two distinct single-gender sleep-away experiences, just miles apart. It’s where the spirit of traditional summer camp meets the adventure of guided expedition programs. We foster independence, introspection, and a deep love for nature—building the foundation for lifelong confidence and success. Campers ages 7–15 enjoy a classic camp experience, while those 14–16 can opt into guided wilderness expeditions designed to challenge and inspire.
Hear From Campers
Our campers live and breathe Thunderbird. They say it best!
I did not know that the past 7 years would actually change the person I am. I have grown as a person every summer and I’ve loved realizing what makes me happy. T-Bird has shown me the kind of person I want to be.
I was a little nervous at first but everyone made me feel comfortable. I made lots of great friends and had tons of fun. I loved the counselors and was sad when it was time to leave.
You guys are the best people I’ve ever met. You always make me and all of the other campers smile and feel amazing when you come into the room.
My first summer at Thunderbird was awesome. I had such great people and counselors in my cabin. My favorite activity was pottery.
I have loved growing up here and I would not be the person I am today without Thunderbird. It is such a special place and it makes my heart so happy that so many kids continue to come and love it as much as I do.
All About Thunderbird
Rooted in a tradition dating back to 1946, Thunderbird continues to stay true to its past. We have always and continue to provide campers with a safe place to spread their wings, chart their path, forge profound friendships, and explore all the outdoors has to offer. Join our camp family and find your way home.
Program experience
Looking for a program that will hold the interest of your child from seven to seventeen? Our multi-specialty and adventure program combination experience is unparalleled in the Midwest and perhaps across the country.
See our facilities
Camp Thunderbird for Boys and Camp Thunderbird for Girls are set on 700 acres and more than three miles of our undeveloped and pristine shoreline that separate the two camps. With almost no daily boat traffic except for our own, our waterfronts and camp settings are ideal.
Meet our leadership
By pairing a deep understanding of the world your child navigates, with a philosophy rooted in 7o plus years of camping tradition, we foster the ideal environment for fun, growth, and adventure!
The Best Job You’ll Ever Have
If you’re looking for a summer job that just might change your life, you’ve found it. See what it takes to be a Thunderbird staff member.
Wilderness Adventure
We believe that nature can be our greatest teacher. As our campers get older, we offer them the opportunity to embark on expeditions to the most beautiful places in North America with friends they’ve been building for years. Our programs can take you to Washington, Canada, Oregon, Maine, Vermont, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and even Alaska! No one does it quite like us—just see for yourself.
Journey Home Again & Again
Once a Thunderbird camper, always a Thunderbird camper. With over 70 years of tradition, Thunderbird allows for campers to share the camp experience with parents, grandparents, and great grandparents. Each generation comes together to be part of the Thunderbird community and family.
Thunderbird What You Are
Whether you’re introducing that TBird magic to your kids, giving the gift of it to others, or just recapturing a bit for yourself, home is always right where you left it.
Make a difference
Donate to The Camp Thunderbird and John Austin Cheley Charitable Foundations
