Nestled among forests, wetlands and the shores of Crabapple Lake, Camp Killoqua has been a summer sanctuary for youth since 1941. Operated by Camp Fire Snohomish County, the 185-acre site in Stanwood offers campers from kindergarten through high school a chance to unplug, explore and grow.
At Camp Killoqua, campers shape their own experiences. Photo courtesy of Camp Fire.
“There’s so much in the lives of kids today – so much that we adults never had to contend with,” says Jeremy Gregersen, executive director of Camp Fire Snohomish County. “Camp is the answer to a lot of those struggles. It gives them the opportunity to be who they want to be, to learn about their friends and themselves and to do it all in a beautiful environment.”
A camp experience tailored by kids, for kids
At Camp Killoqua, campers shape their own experiences. Attending either day camp or overnight sessions, campers can choose from activities like swimming, archery, hiking, paddle boating, outdoor cooking, crafts and much more.
“It’s not pre-programmed,” Gregersen explains, noting that each camper is paired with a trained counselor, with a 1:10 adult-to-camper ratio. “It’s whatever the kids want to do. They have agency.”
Camp Killoqua’s philosophy emphasizes small-group living, appreciation of the outdoors and acceptance of differences. Photo courtesy of Camp Fire.
Campers can attend for a single week or multiple weeks. There are also specialty programs, such as horse camp and culinary camp. Campers who have lost a loved one can attend Camp Willie, a special session addressing grief and loss.
Camp Killoqua’s philosophy emphasizes small-group living, appreciation of the outdoors and acceptance of differences. The camp fosters an inclusive environment where all youth are welcomed and affirmed, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities.
“Our job is nothing short of helping kids have the best week of their life – to help them build memories to last a lifetime,” Gregersen says. “It’s about giving them independence within a structure they can count on.”
The camp also offers teen leadership programs, providing older youth with opportunities to develop leadership skills and serve as role models for younger campers.
Attending either day camp or overnight sessions, campers can choose from activities like swimming, archery, hiking, paddle boating, outdoor cooking, crafts and much more. Photo courtesy of Camp Fire.
Camp Killoqua is part of Camp Fire Snohomish County’s broader mission to serve youth across the region. In 2023, Camp Fire programs engaged 8,350 participants, with a range of services from after-school programs to outdoor education.
“As a new executive director,” Gregersen says. “I took on this role with Camp Fire because I believe the antidote to so much of what’s troubling kids these days can be found in the outdoors.”
For more information about Camp Killoqua and to register for upcoming sessions, visit campkilloqua.org.
