In 1952, Camp Mac Boykin was established after YMCA supporter MacWillie Shannon Boykin left some property and a portion of his estate to the Sumter YMCA to establish and run a children’s Summer Camp Program. Camp Mac Boykin is nestled in Manchester State Forest near Pinewood and Wedgefield, and has served thousands of Sumter-area youth with summertime experiences for over four generations now. As Camp Mac Boykin celebrates its 74th Anniversary in 2026, we dream of a future where even more youth will be provided a safe place to grow and explore and be nurtured in a healthy, outdoor environment. It is our dream to enhance and expand this wonderful land and the community of families who can share the experience and grow stronger at Camp Mac Boykin.
Camp Mac Boykin
Campers, ages 7 – 13, will experience classic outdoor adventure at Camp Mac Boykin, nestled on 55 beautiful acres of woods, water, and open space. The camp features a ropes course, cabins, ball field, and a natural swimming area with water based activities that encourage exploration and fun. This traditional outdoor camp focuses on building friendships, learning new skills, and enjoying rugged summer fun in the great outdoors. For nearly 75 years, Camp Mac Boykin has created meaningful memories, with generations of campers returning as counselors in training and staff.
Each day is filled with nature education, arts and crafts, messy games, Ga Ga, and opportunities for adventure, including overnights. Campers grow in confidence, independence, and teamwork while making lifelong memories. We will host four overnight opportunities this summer for those attending Camp Mac Boykin.
C.I.T. – Counselors In Training
The Counselor in Training (C.I.T.) program at Camp Mac Boykin is designed to help teens build leadership skills they can use throughout their lives. CITs learn how to work effectively with children while developing responsibility, communication, and teamwork skills. Through hands on experience, training, and mentorship, CITs assist counselors in day camp programs while gaining valuable leadership experience. Participants must attend the required training date to ensure they are prepared and confident in supporting campers and staff.
Camp Mac Boykin has always been a place of growth, discovery and connection. To meet the growing needs of our community, we are embarking on a transformative campaign to create a modern, four-season facility that can serve families, groups and youth year-round. But we need YOUR help! Our Vision includes:
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- Upgraded and rebuilt cabins: Modern, comfortable, and accessible cabins that will replace our aging structures, allowing us to house more campers in comfort and extend our season.
- Upgraded recreational facilities: State-of-the-art facilities that expand our program offerings and provide exciting new opportunities for healthy living and outdoor play.
- Essential infrastructure improvements: A necessary investment in our core systems to ensure safety and sustainability for decades.
- Year-round rentals and family use: The ability to open our doors to school groups, environmental education, corporate retreats, and family getaways throughout the year, sustaining our mission and serving more people.
- This is our chance to build a camp not just for summer, but for all seasons. Join us as we build for the future and create a powerful hub for community connection, year round! Your gift will support Camp Mac Boykin’s excellent programming, facilities, counselors and staff, and ensure that we can serve for years to come!
