Camp Kirby
Camp Kirby
Why a Camp Fire Camp? Camp Fire has always recognized that curious youth exploring the world need a secure place to grow up. And since 1910 we’ve provided that place, through in-school programs, after-school programs, and, last but certainly not least, Camp Kirby. Camp Fire believes when youth get the chance to be outdoors, to work with others in community, and learn to respect nature, they also learn self-awareness and responsibility. We’re proud of the role we have played—and continue to play—in guiding young lives to an appreciation of their own lives and the world we all live in.
2026 Camp Handbook
2026 Campership Application
Camp Kirby is a traditional youth camp with emphasis on:
- An outdoor living experience
- Building self-worth, confidence, and individual growth
- Having fun in a safe environment
Camp Kirby provides a magical summer with programs for grades 1 – 12 including: archery, waterfront activities, arts & crafts, 40-foot climbing tower, hiking trails, and much more. The camp has 47 acres of forest, grasslands, and beach that spread 1 1/2 miles along Padilla Bay. Furthermore, parents can rest easy knowing that Camp Kirby is ACA accredited (What does that mean? Click here to learn more).
There is so much competition for our children’s time in the summer — sports practice, summer school, and well-deserved vacations, to mention a few. But don’t forget about summer camp! Summer camp is still on the list, and it’s truly a gift. If our society ever needed future leaders who understood the intricacies of living in a community, having tolerance, and just being out in nature — that time is now. What better way to immerse your child in a caring community and develop their individuality by sending them to camp?
We are often asked what a typical day at Camp Kirby looks like. The simple answer is that there is no typical day. This short video gives you an idea of what a Thursday at Camp could look like.
Our Goals & Philosophy
The goals of the Camp Kirby program are relatively straightforward: each child has fun, learns new skills (both social and instrumental), faces and (whenever possible) successfully meets challenges, and leaves camp with a sense of accomplishment and good feeling about themselves.
Overnight Camp
We offer six weeks of Overnight Camp in addition to one mini camp session. These camps are offered to campers entering 1st-12th grade (every grade level is not offered every week). Campers are housed in units based on the grade the camper is entering the following Fall. For more specific information, please review the Overnight Camp section of the 2026 Summer Handbook.
Day Camp
We offer day camps throughout the summer for campers entering Kindergarten through 6th grade, run Monday – Friday from 9AM – 4PM. Camper groups are determined by registration numbers, camper grade/age, and buddy requests. For more specific information on this year’s Day Camps, please review the Day Camp section of the 2026 Summer Handbook.
Leadership Programs
The CIT Program
Our Counselor In Training (CIT) Program is a learning intensive program intended to help individuals who might want to become camp counselors make the transition from camper to staff member. Our CIT program is for campers entering 11th grade (and who are between the ages of 16 and 18, unless the Camp Director has approved otherwise).
The KIT Program
The Kirby Intern Team (KIT) Program is Camp Kirby’s comprehensive leadership development program designed specifically for our interns who aspire to become future counselors. This volunteer program is designed for campers entering 12th grade(and who are between the ages of 17 and 18), and who have already completed the CIT program in the previous summer.
The CAT Program
The Day Camp Counselor Assistant Training (CAT) Program gives older campers a chance to grow as leaders, learn new skills, and begin the transition from camper to counselor—all while still enjoying the fun and community of day camp.
Family Camp
Enjoy all that Camp Kirby has to offer all on your own! We offer a Family Camp experience during Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Gather your family and relive those unforgettable Camp memories! Family Camp offers rustic and deluxe cabins, some camp-staffed activities, over a mile of beachfront, hiking trails, and more!
Alumni Camp
Whether it has been a year, a decade, or what feels like a lifetime since your last Camp Kirby adventure, come join us at Alumni Camp! Alumni Camp is an opportunity to reminisce on the history and culture of Camp Fire Samish & Camp Kirby with old and new friends alike. Alumni Camp is a chance for past Camp Kirby staff and campers to connect and enjoy the camp of your dreams! Some of your favorite camp activities, like archery, will be open during your stay. There will also be organized cookouts, campfires, Council Fire, and so much more! You’re also welcome to explore camp on your own.
