Family Camp
Family Fun Thunderbird Style
2026 Family Camp enrollment is on a waitlist!
August 8 – August 12 (after breakfast)
We’re so excited that you’re thinking of joining us! There is a minimum stay of three nights. For your convenience, accommodations will be available at no additional cost after 6:00 p.m. on August 7. Please note that August 7 does not count toward the three-night minimum. There will be no scheduled activities and no dinner provided on August 7, though we are happy to help coordinate delivery options to camp. Meals begin with breakfast on August 8, and Family Camp concludes after breakfast on August 12.
Your Northwoods Getaway
Family Camp mimics an inclusive resort that has something for everyone ages 0-100. Just like our campers, families get to create their own adventure with 20+ activities offered on a daily basis. Fully staffed and instructed activities include swimming, canoeing, fishing, waterskiing, tubing, guided fishing trips, sailing, archery, riflery, blacksmithing, arts & crafts, climbing wall, campfires, camping trips, and horseback riding.
Kids and adults can practice a familiar activity or experience something for the first time in a safe and supportive environment. If the adults want some time to relax, kids can join our “Kids Corner” for the morning or afternoon and spend time with our fun-loving and highly qualified counselors. When the kids head off to bed, counselors are available to babysit.
While you’re here, take advantage of the surroundings. For those feeling truly adventurous, we offer day or overnight canoe trips led by qualified staff. “Adventure Days” take you to exciting places like Itasca State Park, home of the Mississippi River headwaters.
Don’t miss a day in downtown Bemidji, just a 15-minute drive north of Thunderbird. Take a family picture at the enormous statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Stroll along Lake Bemidji and pop into one-of-a-kind, locally owned shops.
Family Camp is Thunderbird’s version of “Rookie Camp.” Many campers got their start at Thunderbird by attending a week at the end of the season. For prospective female campers, a director or seasoned staff member will take you on a guided tour of girls camp.
Now Let’s Get Down to the Details
When does family camp take place?
The 2026 dates for family camp are August 8 at breakfast-August 12 after breakfast. You are welcome to arrive and get settled on August 7 after 6:00pm. We do not count this as part of your three-night minimum. Most families carry out or eat dinner in Bemidji before their arrival.
Are my kids the right ages for family camp?
All ages are welcome as there’s something for everyone to do. The relaxing camp getaway setting is idyllic for everyone to enjoy the activities, and the time spent with loved ones. In addition to “Kids' Corner” for those who are potty trained, we have staff who are willing to babysit. Rates for babysitting are based on conversations with the staff, timing, and number of children involved. Thunderbird helps set a minimum charge once at Family Camp.
Where will we sleep?
Each family sleeps in a private cozy, rustic cabin with central washhouse buildings available in each village. Thunderbird provides bedding and towels. Pack-n-Plays are also provided for babies and toddlers. We do have some buildings with bathrooms and showers. Please put in a request for this type of housing when you register. We reserve cabins with plumbing for families with young children and our more distinguished and older guests.
Who else comes to family camp?
Family camp participants are alumni, current camp families, people looking for a classic vacation and more. We typically fill up, so don’t wait too long to sign up for the upcoming season.
What's the food like?
Delicious, healthy meals are served family-style. Sit with new friends and enjoy the communal nature of camp or enjoy a meal with just your family. Each morning, wake up to a breakfast buffet with eggs and omelets made to order. Lunch and dinner feature hot meals with a large salad bar at dinner. The meals offer kid and adult friendly options. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are plentiful. With advance warning, we can make accommodations for other allergies or intolerances.
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Give The Gift of Camp
Donate to The Camp Thunderbird and John Austin Cheley Charitable Foundation.