YMCA of Greater Houston Celebrates 50 Years of Camp Magic at Camp Cullen

HOUSTON, TX -- YMCA of Greater Houston is proudly celebrating the 50th anniversary of YMCA Camp Cullen, marking five decades of providing transformative experiences and outdoor adventure for youth across the region. Since opening in 1975,

YMCA Camp Cullen has welcomed more than 355,000 campers to its 500 acres of scenic land in Trinity, Texas, offering
youth ages 7 – 17 a safe, supportive environment to grow, explore and thrive.

YMCA Camp Cullen has grown from a small regional program into one of Texas’ most beloved overnight camps. Built around a mission of equity and opportunity, Camp Cullen offers adventure-based learning that fosters independence, leadership, empathy, and confidence. Campers participate in horseback riding, zip lining, kayaking, archery, creative arts, nature exploration, and team-building adventures—developing critical life skills and building lasting friendships in the process.

“For 50 years, YMCA Camp Cullen has provided more than just a fun-filled summer,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Houston. “The camp is a stepping stone toward becoming nurturing, capable, independent and empathetic individuals. As we honor this incredible legacy, we’re focused on continuing to create a dynamic place where youth can develop positive values, build practical skills and disconnect from the growing pressures of technology and everyday life.”

The Next 50 Years - Camp Cullen’s Future: Growing with Purpose

Looking ahead, the YMCA of Greater Houston envisions exciting enhancements to support future generations of campers. Expansion plans include upgraded facilities, new experiences, and deeper programming designed to reflect today’s youth development needs. These enhancements will only move forward with full funding through the Capital Campaign, which aims to improve infrastructure, expand access, and preserve the camp’s natural environment for decades to come.

Potential enhancements include:

The Sky Trail:
This new feature will be an innovative aerial adventure designed to promote confidence, active play and personal growth for campers of all ages.

Splash Pad (Generously sponsored by the Hamill Foundation): Featuring sprayers, fountains, and splash buckets, the Splash Pad will provide a refreshing way to cool off and encourage social interaction, regardless of swimming ability.

Fall Celebratory Events

The 50th anniversary will be commemorated with a series of special events this October, bringing together alumni, families, and the community to celebrate YMCA Camp Cullen’s legacy and lasting impact.

Roots to Branches: An Evening Celebrating the 50-Year Legacy of Camp Cullen

• This special evening will honor individuals who have helped shape the lives of many campers and unveil the 2025 Camp Cullen Hall of Fame inductees.
• Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 6 pm at The Grove - 1611 Lamar St., Houston, TX 77010

Alumni Family Camp Weekend

• Alumni and their families are invited to return to YMCA Camp Cullen for a weekend of connection, reliving old traditions while creating new ones. Guests will enjoy classic camp activities, bond over campfires, and share in the magic of Camp Cullen with the next generation.
• October 23 – 26, 2025 | YMCA Camp Cullen, Trinity, TX

As Camp Cullen enters its next chapter, it remains a place where young people build confidence, discover their strength, and create lifelong memories through outdoor adventure. For more information about the YMCA of Greater Houston and YMCA Camp Cullen and its 50th Anniversary celebrations, visit https://ymcacampcullen.org/50-anniversary/
and follow the organization on Facebook @YMCACampCullen and Instagram @YMCACampCullen.