Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center

Hello, fellow North Carolinians! Are you searching for a place that offers more than just a getaway – a place that builds community, fosters growth, and creates truly unforgettable memories? Look no further than Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center in Watha, NC. Nestled in the heart of our beautiful state, Kirkwood isn't just a campground; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor education, spiritual retreats, and transformative summer camp experiences. It’s a destination where, as one reviewer put it, "The memories, experiences, friendships stay with you. The caring you receive from the staff is so critical in a time when we have no real tribe. Kirkwood provides our tribe."

North Carolina boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, from the majestic mountains to the serene coastline, all offering unique opportunities for recreation and reflection. Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center perfectly captures the essence of our state’s natural beauty, providing a welcoming environment where individuals and groups can connect with nature and each other. Whether you're seeking an immersive summer camp for your children, a peaceful retreat for your church group, or an outdoor education program for your school, Kirkwood offers a versatile and supportive setting.

We understand that as North Carolinians, you value strong communities, meaningful experiences, and places that feel like home away from home. Kirkwood is committed to delivering just that. It's a place where laughter echoes through the woods, friendships are forged around campfires, and personal growth is nurtured by dedicated staff. So, whether you're planning a structured group event or looking to reconnect with the outdoors, discover why Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is becoming the "tribe" for so many across North Carolina.

Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is beautifully situated in the charming community of Watha, North Carolina, at 2015 Camp Kirkwood Rd, Watha, NC 28478, USA. This location offers a perfect blend of peaceful seclusion and convenient access, making it an ideal retreat for groups and individuals from across our state.

The camp is strategically located just 5.5 miles north of Burgaw and approximately 40 minutes from Wilmington. This means it’s easily reachable from major population centers in southeastern North Carolina, with "easy access to the main thoroughfares to North and South Carolina." Whether you're coming from the coast, the Piedmont, or even farther west, the journey to Kirkwood is typically straightforward and scenic, guiding you into the serene woodlands that define the camp’s environment.

While one reviewer mentioned using the camp during Hurricane Florence, highlighting its resilience and utility, it also implicitly speaks to its accessibility even during challenging times, being a reliable hub for organizations. The roads leading to the camp are well-maintained, ensuring smooth travel for buses, vans, and personal vehicles alike. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself immersed in 195 acres of pristine woodlands, offering a genuine sense of escape from the everyday hustle without being inconveniently remote. This thoughtful positioning ensures that Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is a practical and appealing choice for all North Carolinians seeking a natural, accessible retreat.

Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is designed to be a versatile facility, offering a wide array of services that cater to various groups and individuals, from summer campers to retreat attendees. Their comprehensive offerings ensure a comfortable and enriching experience for all.

• Diverse Lodging Options: Kirkwood provides both indoor and outdoor camping choices.
  • Heated/AC Cabins with Indoor Baths: Eight cabins are available, each with heating and air conditioning, and full indoor bath facilities. These cabins feature seven bunk beds, allowing them to comfortably sleep up to 14 people each.
  • Screened-in Cabins: For a more "realistic wilderness experience," eight screened-in cabins are located in a rustic area of the camp.
  • Tenting Sites: For the "extremely rustic" camper, tenting sites are available, and these include fire pits for traditional campfire experiences.
• Full Food Service / Dining Hall: The camp boasts a large dining hall capable of seating up to 140 people at tables or 200 auditorium style. Their "food service staff is prepared to serve you healthy, tasty delicious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner," making it ideal for group retreats and events.
• Meeting and Conference Spaces: Kirkwood offers multiple versatile spaces for meetings and gatherings:
  • Outdoor Pavilion: A large covered pavilion (roof, no walls) seats 140, perfect for outdoor activities, meals, or crafts in good weather.
  • Vesper Dell (Outdoor Chapel): Provides stadium-style seating for up to 150 people with a "breathtaking view of the lake," complete with electric outlets for AV needs.
  • Unit Lodge: A cozier option for up to 80 people, recently upgraded with new flooring, a working fireplace, a full kitchen, and restrooms, making it "a cozy place for groups to gather."
• Outdoor Education Programs: Kirkwood specializes in offering structured outdoor education classes and programs, suitable for schools and retreat groups, focusing on team-building and environmental learning.
• Summer Camp Programs: As a YMCA camp, Kirkwood offers a variety of summer camp options, including:
  • Classic Overnight Camp: Campers stay in cabins, choose majors and electives, and enjoy adventure and connection. Two-week sessions are also available.
  • Youth Day Camp: Enjoy land and water activities during the day, with bus pick-up and drop-off locations in Wilmington, Hampstead, and Rocky Point.
  • Mini Overnight Camp: A shorter, 2-night/3-day introduction to sleepaway camp.
  • Adventure Camp: Focuses on outdoor living skills, canoeing, hiking, and traditional camp activities.
  • Leaders in Training (LIT) Camp: A two-week overnight program for leadership development.
• Camp Store: An on-site camp store is typically available for purchasing snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and essential camp items.
• Financial Assistance: The YMCA offers financial assistance for summer camp programs, ensuring accessibility for families who qualify.

Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center truly stands out with a remarkable array of features and highlights that promise an enriching and engaging experience for all its visitors. Its natural setting combined with diverse recreational and educational opportunities creates a truly unique environment in North Carolina.

• Expansive Natural Landscape: The camp spans "over 195 acres of pristine woodlands," offering ample space for exploration, nature study, and a genuine sense of being immersed in the outdoors. This vast property provides a beautiful backdrop for all activities and creates a peaceful atmosphere.
• 10-Acre Lake with Water Activities: A central feature is the "10-acre lake" which serves as a hub for water sports. Guests can enjoy "fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding, kayaking and lake rafts." For adventure seekers, there's even a "Splash Blast Lake Obstacle Course" available at Kirkwood Camp & Adventure Park.
• Outdoor Pool: Beyond the lake, the camp features an "outdoor pool" for cooling off and enjoying a refreshing swim, a welcome amenity, especially during North Carolina's warm summers.
• High and Low Ropes Courses & Zip-line: For thrill-seekers and team-building groups, Kirkwood offers "high and low ropes courses, zip-line," and a "Swing By Choice and power pole." These elements provide exciting challenges and foster cooperation and personal growth.
• Archery and BB Gun Range: Traditional camp activities are well-represented with a dedicated "archery and BB gun range," providing opportunities for skill development and fun in a safe, supervised environment.
• Hiking Trails: The 195 acres are crisscrossed with "hiking trails," perfect for "nature study," leisurely strolls, or more vigorous walks through the "woods."
• Focus on Community and Belonging: A core philosophy highlighted by reviewers is the emphasis on creating a "life-changing Camp" experience where "The memories, experiences, friendships stay with you." The "caring you receive from the staff is so critical," fostering a sense of "tribe" and belonging that resonates deeply with visitors.
• Prayer Labyrinth: For quiet reflection and stress reduction, a "Prayer Labyrinth" with the lake as a backdrop offers a unique walking meditation spot.
• "No WiFi" for True Unplugging: While some might see it as a drawback, a reviewer highlighted that "No wifi meant for lots of basketball playing, cookouts." This absence of constant digital connection encourages campers to genuinely unplug, engage in face-to-face interactions, and fully immerse themselves in outdoor activities and camaraderie.

Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center, as a YMCA-affiliated and community-focused facility, offers various programs and admission structures that can be considered forms of "promotions" or provide excellent value for North Carolina residents. Their goal is often to make their enriching experiences accessible.

• Season Memberships for Adventure Park Access: For recreational day use, Kirkwood Camp & Adventure Park offers "Season Memberships." A "Family Season Membership Rate - $200 (up to 5 people in household)" with additional members at $10 each (limit 10 per membership) provides unlimited admission during the summer operating season. This offers substantial savings for frequent visitors compared to individual visit pricing. Children 5 and under are free. Individual memberships are $50.
• Group Reservation Rates: Kirkwood welcomes groups of "20 people or more" at a discounted rate of "$17 per person." This is ideal for churches, businesses, schools, and other organizations looking for a cost-effective retreat or event venue.
• Financial Assistance for Summer Camps: The YMCA of Southeastern NC is committed to making summer camp accessible. They offer "financial assistance for those who qualify," ensuring that youth from diverse backgrounds can experience the "magic of camp."
• Special Events and Family Days: Kirkwood hosts specific events like "Camp Kirkwood Family Day," which sometimes offer discounted entry (e.g., $10 entry, children under three free) for a day of activities like ziplining, swimming, and boating. Keep an eye on their calendar for such community events.
• Early Bird Registration for Summer Camps: While not explicitly stated, many YMCA camps offer early bird discounts for summer camp registrations. It's always wise to check their summer camp section well in advance of the season for potential savings.
• Diabetes Family Connection "Camp to Community" Event: Kirkwood is a host for special events like the "2025 Camp To Community: Wilmington," a one-day camp experience for families living with Type 1 Diabetes. This event costs only "$10 per family" (with scholarships available), offering a highly affordable day of support, education, and fun.

For the most current information on pricing, membership options, summer camp fees, and specific event promotions, it is highly recommended to visit the official Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center website, typically associated with the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina (e.g., ymcasenc.org/ymca-camp-kirkwood/ or https://www.google.com/search?q=gokirkwood.com).

Ready to connect with Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center and start planning your next memorable experience in North Carolina? Whether it’s for a summer camp, a group retreat, or an outdoor education program, their team is ready to assist you.

• Address: 2015 Camp Kirkwood Rd, Watha, NC 28478, USA
• Phone: (910) 259-5945. (Note: While the prompt provided this number, an additional number found during research for the YMCA Camp Kirkwood office is (910) 726-9789 x293. It's advisable to try both or check their official website for the most active contact number.)
• Official Website/Online Presence: For comprehensive details on all programs, facilities, events, and to make inquiries or reservations, please visit the official website. Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is managed by the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina. You can typically find detailed information on their YMCA page (e.g., ymcasenc.org/ymca-camp-kirkwood/) or sometimes a dedicated adventure park site (e.g., https://www.google.com/search?q=gokirkwood.com). These sites will offer program calendars, facility descriptions, and contact forms.

We encourage you to reach out directly to discuss your specific needs and ensure Kirkwood can provide the perfect setting for your group or family.

For North Carolinians, Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is far more than just a place to visit; it’s a foundational community resource that offers profound benefits right here in our backyard. Its multifaceted approach to outdoor education, personal growth, and community building makes it exceptionally suitable for local residents.

Firstly, its accessible location in Watha, just a short drive from Wilmington and other regional hubs, means that quality outdoor experiences are within easy reach. This convenience allows families, churches, schools, and other groups across North Carolina to plan enriching retreats and summer camps without extensive travel, maximizing the time spent on impactful activities and minimizing logistical burdens.

Secondly, Kirkwood’s deep commitment to fostering a sense of "tribe" and belonging resonates powerfully with the values of many North Carolina communities. In an increasingly disconnected world, having a place where "memories, experiences, friendships stay with you" and where "the caring you receive from the staff is so critical" provides an invaluable social and emotional anchor. This focus on building genuine connections makes it a unique and cherished local asset.

Furthermore, the diverse range of activities and programs—from ropes courses and zip-lines to a peaceful prayer labyrinth and a beautiful 10-acre lake for water sports—ensures there's something for everyone. This variety means that families can find summer camp options for their children that are both fun and enriching, while groups can tailor retreats to their specific educational or spiritual goals. The "no wifi" policy, as highlighted by a local reviewer, is a particular strength for those seeking a true digital detox and a return to real-world interactions.

In essence, Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center is a testament to the power of outdoor engagement and community spirit. It's a place where North Carolina's natural beauty serves as a backdrop for personal development, strengthened relationships, and lasting memories. For any local seeking more than just a campground but a true community retreat, Kirkwood offers an unparalleled and transformative experience in our beloved state.

Kirkwood Camp & Conference Center

2015 Camp Kirkwood Rd, Watha, NC 28478, USA