YMCA Camp Cherokee
Private
YMCA Camp Cherokee is a traditional overnight resident camp for boys and girls ages 6-14, operating since 1945 inside Kings Mountain State Park in Blacksburg, on more than 7,000 acres of parkland beside the 66-acre Lake York. Campers paddle the lake, do archery, swim, hike, rock climb, ride horses, and take part in sports, dancing, music, and campfires. Weekly sessions run in June and July, with full-week enrollment and shorter introductory stays for first-time campers, and day camp options are also offered. Non-member residential rates run roughly $725-$775 per week; YMCA member discounts and financial assistance are available.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact YMCA Camp Cherokee directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Lauren FoxOur daughter has gone to Camp Cherokee for the last 4 years and I can truly say that every year she goes is better than the last! This year she went for three weeks total, one stand alone and two weeks that bridged over the weekend and she said that each week had different activities and different themes while keeping the main staples of camp. We have been impressed with the communication and safey precautions and could not recommend this camp more!
★★★★★Olena ZhuryaWe’ve been sending our kids to Camp Cherokee for several years now, and it’s truly been an amazing experience every time. The location is absolutely beautiful — surrounded by nature and the perfect setting for summer adventures. My daughters are 13 and 7 years old. There’s such a fantastic variety of activities for kids of all ages, from sports and swimming to arts and crafts, hiking, and campfires. Our kids always come home with great stories and tons of happy memories. Also, super important - The staff at Camp Cherokee are incredibly friendly, caring, and enthusiastic about new kiddos. They make every camper feel welcome and ensure everyone has the best time. We look forward to Camp Cherokee every year - make sure you register early :)
★★★★★Emily ButcherWe love Camp Cherokee! Our daughter is 11 and has been going for 3 years. They take such great care of the kids and they have so.much. fun!! Highly recommend!
★★★★★Emily JacksonWonderful camp!! We have been two years now and my kids love it! Staff is top tier and strive to give campers the best camp experience! It is a rustic camp, but that's the beauty of it! It gets your children away from screens and into nature for the week and they have a blast. They learn some independence getting to take care of themselves for the week and keep track of their things, make new friends, experience new things/activities, and make memories that will last a lifetime! The huge new recreation building will be completed and in use by next summer and it will be an awesome addition to camp!!
★★★★★Carol DawkinsThe weekend beginner's camp was our first experience with Camp Cherokee as guests and we will allow our granddaughter to go back as many times as we can afford through the years she is with us. After her very first weekend at a residential camp, she came back a more confident, curious, and caring little girl. She's no longer scared of spiders, she enjoys outdoor play again, and she notices the wonders of nature. She was definitely glad to be back in her own bed after the weekend, but wow, was this weekend a success. Thanks, Camp Cherokee! Your counselors are the BEST!