Family Fun, Thunderbird-Style!
Family Camp
Family Camp is a resort like Northwoods getaway 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. While days are filled with playing at the waterfront, participating in various sporting activities or exploring the surrounding area, nights bring campfires and games to continue the fun. When the kids head off to bed, counselors are available to babysit.
And while you’re here, take advantage of the surroundings. For the 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 the one-of-a-kind, locally owned shops. The beach town of Walker, 30 minutes from camp, offers restaurants, a winery, antique shops and art galleries just a stone’s throw away from a city park with lakefront beach and swimming.
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
In 2025, we are planning on hosting Family Camp at the Boys Camp.
When does family camp take place?
The 2025 dates for family camp are August 8th at breakfast-August 13th after breakfast. You are welcome to arrive and get settled on August 8 after 6:00pm. We do not count this as part of your three day 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 “Kid’s 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.
Will we like the food?
Delicious, healthy meals are served family-style; time spent in the lodge eating is some of the most fun. Sit with new friends and enjoy the communal nature of camp or enjoy a meal with just your family. Each morning awaken 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. Preparing institutional cooking for those guests who are vegan is a bit more challenging and we suggest bringing supplements to be stored in your cabin or in the kitchen.
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.
