Welcome to Camp Thunderbird, a cherished retreat nestled in the serene landscape of Mimbres, New Mexico. Surrounded by the iconic beauty of the Southwestern United States, including landmarks like the vast Gila Wilderness, Camp Thunderbird offers a picturesque backdrop for adventure and learning.

Founded with a spirit of exploration and community, Camp Thunderbird has a rich history of fostering independence and skills in young people through engaging, nature-based experiences. The camp’s mission is to nurture the potential of each camper, helping them grow into responsible, environmentally-conscious individuals. They emphasize respect for others, leadership development, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Camp Thunderbird is an inclusive space, welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to children and teenagers, providing them with opportunities to challenge themselves, make new friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether through hiking, crafts, or campfire stories, every activity at Camp Thunderbird is aimed at building character and enriching the campers’ lives. Join us for an unforgettable summer of discovery and fun at Camp Thunderbird!

Programs Offered by Camp Thunderbird

Camp Thunderbird offers a diverse range of programs designed to engage campers in a variety of activities that nurture both personal growth and team-building skills. Each program is crafted to make the most of its beautiful setting in Mimbres, New Mexico, and tailored to fit the interests and developmental stages of their campers.

Programs Description:

Explorer Program: Tailored for younger campers, this program introduces them to the basics of outdoor survival, teamwork, and environmental stewardship through fun, hands-on activities.
Adventure Program: Designed for middle-aged campers, this program ramps up the challenge with more advanced outdoor skills, overnight backpacking trips and leadership activities.
Leadership Development Program: Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities, mentorship opportunities, and community service projects.

Length of Sessions:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for first-time campers or those looking for a short but sweet experience.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper dive into skills and offer more opportunities for personal development and bonding.
Full Summer: The ultimate camp experience, spanning several weeks for an immersive and transformative summer.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Includes workshops in painting, sculpture, photography, and performance arts, allowing campers to express themselves creatively in a natural setting.
Sports: Focuses on outdoor sports such as archery, canoeing, and rock climbing, emphasizing teamwork and physical fitness.
Science: Engages campers in environmental science, astronomy, and biology through experiments and exploration in the surrounding wilderness.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:00 AM: Wake up and morning jog or meditation
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activity block (e.g., arts, sports, science workshops)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest time/free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon activity block (specialty program activities)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening campfire and social activities
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This schedule is designed to strike a balance between structured activities and free time, ensuring that all campers have the opportunity to explore their interests, meet new friends, and enjoy the great outdoors at Camp Thunderbird.

Accommodations in Camp Thunderbird

Camp Thunderbird is equipped with a variety of accommodations and facilities designed to ensure that campers are comfortable, well-fed, and able to enjoy their camp experience to the fullest.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Thunderbird, their cabins house between 8 to 12 campers along with one or two counselors. Each cabin is outfitted with bunk beds and storage space for personal items. The cabins are grouped into clusters, with each cluster having a central area for group activities.
Tents: For specific programs, particularly those involving adventure trips, campers may spend part of their session sleeping in tents. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness experience. Tents are provided by the camp, and campers learn how to set them up as part of their activities.
Dorms: Used primarily during special events or larger gatherings, dorm-style accommodations are available. These are similar to cabins but house more campers and are equipped with larger bathroom facilities.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Thunderbird offers three well-balanced meals per day, included in the cost of attendance. Meals are served in their communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and socialize.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to meeting the dietary needs of all their campers. Options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals are available upon request. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

In-Cabin Bathrooms: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom facility equipped with multiple showers, toilets, and sinks. These facilities are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and maintained by their staff to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Public Restrooms: Additional restrooms and showers are available near the dining hall and main activity areas. These facilities are also gender-segregated and are accessible to campers throughout the day and evening.

At Camp Thunderbird, they strive to create a home away from home where campers can relax, refresh, and recharge after a day full of activities. Their accommodations and facilities are designed to enhance the camping experience, ensuring safety, comfort, and convenience for all campers.

Activities in Camp Thunderbird

Camp Thunderbird offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, fostering both fun and educational experiences in a supportive environment. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Their camp features a large, natural lake where campers can enjoy swimming under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
Hiking: With access to numerous trails in the surrounding Gila Wilderness, campers can explore diverse ecosystems and learn about local flora and fauna.
Crafts: They offer various arts and crafts sessions, including pottery, weaving, and woodworking, allowing campers to express their creativity.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on the lake provide fun and challenging experiences for all skill levels.
Rock Climbing: Their climbing programs teach safety and technique on natural and artificial rock faces.
Archery: Summer camps can learn archery from skilled instructors, focusing on safety and precision.
Nature Workshops: These include environmental education, wildlife spotting, and survival skills training.
Sports: Organized sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball are available for team play and skill improvement.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Bonfire: A camp-opening ceremony that includes introductions, camp songs, and setting the tone for the camp session.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various activities, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Show: At the end of each session, campers can showcase their talents, whether it’s music, dance, magic, or comedy.
Closing Ceremony: A time to reflect on the session, recognize achievements, and say goodbyes, often accompanied by a candlelight vigil.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, which include leading younger groups, planning activities, and learning conflict resolution.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs that teach campers about conservation, sustainability, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Creative Arts: Enhancing skills in various forms of art, providing both technical instruction and the opportunity for personal expression.
Sports and Physical Fitness: Focused on improving physical health, teamwork, and sportsmanship through structured sports and activities.

Camp Thunderbird is dedicated to providing a dynamic and enriching experience that promotes personal growth, skill development, and a deep appreciation for nature. Through their diverse range of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development, campers leave with not only new friends and memories but also valuable skills and experiences that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Thunderbird

At Camp Thunderbird, they prioritize the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of their campers by ensuring that their staff is highly qualified, well-trained, and dedicated to fostering a supportive and enriching camp environment. Here’s an overview of their staffing details, including the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training protocols:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

General Ratio: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision.
Specialized Activities: For certain activities that require more intensive supervision and safety measures, such as swimming and rock climbing, the ratio is adjusted to 1:5.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They recruit their staff from a variety of sources, including top universities, teacher associations, and recommendations from within the camping community.
Screening: All potential staff members undergo a rigorous screening process that includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews to assess their experience, skills, and suitability for working with children.
Qualifications: Their staff typically includes seasoned camp counselors, teachers, and students pursuing degrees in education, recreation, or related fields. Many of their staff members have prior experience at other camps or with child-centric organizations.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity leadership, and child psychology.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are kept up-to-date, and refresher courses are conducted during pre-camp training.
Specialized Certifications: For activities that require specific skills or safety measures, such as lifeguarding, rock climbing, or wilderness first aid, staff members must hold appropriate certifications from recognized organizations.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they hold weekly meetings to review procedures, discuss camper needs, and provide ongoing training and support to their staff.

Camp Thunderbird’s commitment to high staffing standards ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, fun, and educational experience. Their staff is equipped not only with the necessary qualifications and certifications but also with a passion for youth development and outdoor education. This dedication is fundamental to creating an unforgettable summer for each camper.

Safety and Health in Camp Thunderbird

Camp Thunderbird takes the safety and health of its campers and staff very seriously, implementing stringent protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to handle any situation that might arise during camp sessions. Here’s an overview of their safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Safety Training: All camp staff undergo thorough safety training, including emergency response drills and scenario-based practice, ensuring readiness for any situation.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at camp has its own set of safety protocols, which are rigorously followed. For instance, water sports require life jackets and are always supervised by certified lifeguards.
Regular Inspections: They conduct daily inspections of all camp facilities and equipment to ensure everything is in good working order and safe for use.
Restricted Areas: Certain areas of the camp are designated as restricted to ensure camper safety, with access allowed only under supervision.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Thunderbird has a fully equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and an on-call doctor, available 24/7.
Medication Management: Their health staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring that campers receive their medications on schedule.
Health Checks: Upon arrival and periodically throughout their stay, campers undergo health checks to identify any issues that might require attention.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Plans: Comprehensive emergency response plans are in place, covering a range of potential scenarios, including natural disasters, health emergencies, and accidents.
Communication: In case of an emergency, clear lines of communication are established between all parts of the camp and the local emergency services. They ensure that parents are promptly informed according to the situation’s severity and nature.
Evacuation Procedures: Detailed evacuation plans are in place, with regular drills conducted to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with evacuation routes and assembly points.
Training in Use of Emergency Equipment: All staff are trained in the use of emergency equipment, including fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and communication devices, which are readily accessible throughout the camp.

Through these meticulous safety measures and health facilities, Camp Thunderbird strives to create a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without undue risk, and where parents can feel confident in the safety of their children. These protocols are central to their mission of providing a safe, fun, and enriching camp experience for all.

Cost and Registration in Camp Thunderbird

Camp Thunderbird aims to provide an enriching and accessible summer experience for children and teenagers. Below are details regarding the cost of attendance, registration process, payment options, and financial aid availability:

Cost of Attendance:

Costs: The cost of attending Camp Thunderbird varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program selected. Typically, one-week sessions range from $750 to $950, two-week sessions from $1,400 to $1,800, and full summer sessions can cost up to $5,000.
What’s Included: The fees cover all costs associated with lodging, meals, program materials, activities, and 24-hour supervision. Additional fees may apply for specialty programs or extended off-site excursions.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration Process: Registration can be completed online through their camp’s website. Prospective campers must fill out a registration form, provide medical information, and submit any required personal documents.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until all spots are filled. Due to high demand, early registration is encouraged.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: To accommodate families’ financial needs, Camp Thunderbird offers structured payment plans that allow the camp fees to be paid in installments over several months.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until a specified date, usually two months before the start of the session. After this date, partial refunds may be granted for cancellations due to medical reasons or family emergencies.
Cancellation Policies: If a session is canceled by the camp due to unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather events or other disruptions, families are typically offered a full refund or the option to enroll in a future session.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Thunderbird is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible. They offer a number of need-based scholarships each year, covering part or all of the cost of attending.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on a family’s financial situation. Families are encouraged to apply early for these opportunities, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Thunderbird’s pricing, registration, and financial policies are designed to ensure that as many children as possible can experience the joys and benefits of summer camp, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Thunderbird

Ensuring that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience is key to a successful summer at Camp Thunderbird. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and easing the transition for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List:

Camp Thunderbird recommends that each camper brings the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for a week, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and warm layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimwear, and a hat for sun protection.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, water shoes, and casual shoes or sandals.
Bedding: Sleeping bag, pillow, and an extra blanket for chilly nights.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, and sunscreen.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, insect repellent, water bottle, and any necessary personal items like glasses or contact lenses.
Optional Items: Books, disposable cameras (if parents prefer limiting electronic devices), and small games or sports equipment.

Please label all personal items with the camper’s name to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted at camp. Devices are collected upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days, which are typically scheduled midway through longer sessions. This policy helps ensure a smooth adaptation period for campers and minimizes disruptions.
Behavioral Expectations: Camp Thunderbird promotes a respectful and inclusive environment. Bullying, disrespect towards staff or peers, or violation of camp rules can result in disciplinary actions or, in severe cases, dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:

Get Involved: Engage in as many activities as possible to make new friends and learn new skills.
Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or facing any issues, talk to your counselors—they’re there to help!

For Parents:

Prepare Emotionally: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships.
Stay Positive: When discussing camp, focus on the positive aspects. Avoid making comments that might increase nervousness or homesickness.
Set Expectations: Review the camp’s schedule and activities with your child, so they know what to expect each day.

By following these guidelines, packing appropriately, and understanding the camp’s rules and policies, both parents and campers can feel more prepared and excited for their adventure at Camp Thunderbird.

Camp Thunderbird offers an enriching, fun-filled summer experience that leaves lasting impressions on campers and provides them with invaluable life skills. Nestled in the beautiful scenery of Mimbres, New Mexico, their camp provides a diverse range of activities designed to challenge, inspire, and foster personal growth and friendships. With its dedicated staff, well-maintained facilities, and a strong commitment to safety and community, Camp Thunderbird is the perfect place for your child to explore the outdoors, develop new skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether your camper is joining us for the first time or returning for another adventurous summer, they will find a supportive and engaging environment at Camp Thunderbird. They are dedicated to ensuring that every camper has a rewarding experience, filled with fun, learning, and the joy of summer camp. Join us at Camp Thunderbird, where every summer is an adventure and every camper leaves with a heart full of memories and a spirit ready to take on the world!