Celebrating 50 Years of YMCA Camp Cullen
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
For half a century, YMCA Camp Cullen has been a beacon of growth, adventure, and community. Since opening its doors in 1975, the camp has welcomed more than 355,000 individuals, offering transformative experiences through Summer Camp, Outdoor Education, Group Retreats, and Family Camps. Located on 500 acres of picturesque land near Trinity, Texas, Camp Cullen has created a legacy of fostering self-esteem, nurturing friendships, and connecting people to the wonders of the great outdoors.
A Legacy of Impact
Camping has been a cornerstone of the YMCA of Greater Houston for over a century, with roots dating back to 1910. Camp Cullen has carried this tradition forward, serving as a vital part of youth development for the past 50 years. Through the camp’s programs, generations of children and teens have learned practical skills, developed positive values, and found respite from the pressures of everyday life and technology. The YMCA’s commitment to ensuring Camp Cullen is “for all” has been unwavering, providing financial assistance to families and expanding opportunities for children across the region.
Looking Ahead to the Next 50 Years
As we celebrate this milestone, the mission of YMCA Camp Cullen has never been clearer: to nurture the potential of all children and empower them to thrive. To achieve this vision, we must continue evolving and adapting our programs and facilities to meet the needs of today’s youth. The young people in our community deserve a space where they can explore, grow, and embrace the adventure of learning through nature.
Join Us in the Celebration
To commemorate Camp Cullen’s 50th anniversary, we’re hosting a series of special events:
- 50 Magical Years of Adventure Celebration
Join us on October 23, 2025, for an elegant evening at The Grove in Houston, TX, as we honor Camp Cullen’s history and look forward to its bright future. Enjoy camp-themed food stations, activities, entertainment, and stories that showcase five decades of impact. - Alumni Family Camp Weekend
Relive the magic of camp with your family from October 24-26, 2025. Activities like archery, canoeing, and campfires will reconnect you with Camp Cullen’s spirit. Capacity is limited, so gather your loved ones and reserve your spot!
Giving Back for the Future
As part of our 50th celebration, we’re launching a capital campaign to ensure Camp Cullen remains a place of growth and inclusion for all. Your support will help us:
- Build a Splash Park: A fun, inclusive space by the waterfront where campers can cool off between activities.
- Develop a Sky Trail High Adventure Course: Designed to accommodate campers of all abilities while reducing staff demands, this addition will make high-adventure activities more accessible.
These projects are vital to continuing Camp Cullen’s mission of inclusivity and creating life-changing opportunities for generations to come.
Make a Difference Today
At Camp Cullen, every program and activity is a stepping stone toward building confident, empathetic young leaders who can positively impact their communities. This mission is only possible through the generous support of individuals and corporations who believe in the transformative power of camp.
Help us celebrate 50 years of adventure and invest in the future of YMCA Camp Cullen. Together, we can ensure the next 50 years are even more impactful.
For more information, contact Bobby Thomas, YMCA Camp Cullen Executive Director, at bobby.thomas@ymcahouston.org.