YMCA of Greater Seattle Federal Way

YMCA Camp Kilworth

After years of quiet, Camp Kilworth once again echoes with energy, laughter, and the spirit of youth. Nestled on 25 acres of forested shoreline in Federal Way, the historic camp—once used by the Boy Scouts—is undergoing a multi-year, phased restoration led by the YMCA of Greater Seattle and supported by donors, volunteers, and community partners. The revival blends historic preservation with modern infrastructure to create a safe, inspiring space for youth and families to reconnect with nature for generations to come.

The effort began after the camp’s closure in 2015–2016, when concerned neighbors rallied to protect this one-of-a-kind site, including some of Federal Way’s oldest structures and surrounding forest. Their advocacy united key partners: Forterra acquired the land in conservancy using King County Salmon Recovery funds, and the Seattle Y committed to a 50-year lease to rehabilitate, renovate, and reopen the camp as a community resource.

Momentum continued through the September 2023 NAIOP WA Community Enhancement Day, when more than 250 volunteers cleared invasive plants and restored essential program areas—from the amphitheater and archery range to footbridges and trails.

This collaborative effort set the stage for significant enhancements, which GLY is delivering through a two-phase approach.

Owner

YMCA of Greater Seattle

Land Owner

Forterra

Architect

Miller Hayashi Architects

Metrics

25 Acres | 7 Buildings

Completion

Phase I: 2025 | Phase II: 2027

Phase I: Infrastructure + Reopening

The first phase, completed in spring 2025, set the foundation for Camp Kilworth’s renewed operations. Since its grand reopening, the camp has welcomed over 500 children to summer day camps, hosted several community events—including outdoor movies at the amphitheater—and welcomed hiking groups eager to explore the grounds. Thanks to state and county grants, foundations, and private philanthropy, the camp received several major upgrades:

All new underground utilities including power, water + telecom/data/security
Infrastructure for half dozen stand-alone buildings
New ADA-accessible Welcome Center with picnic shelter + restroom facilities
New caretaker house
Large onsite septic system for up to 150 daily users
Restoration of amphitheater, maintenance shop + activity spaces
Extensive landscaping to support environmental learning

Phase II: Historic Renovations

Phase II of the YMCA Camp Kilworth improvements will restore two historic lodges and upgrade the northwest restroom facilities. Construction is anticipated to begin in fall 2026, contingent on successful fundraising efforts.

Timberwolf Lodge

Constructed in late 1930s, Timberwolf Lodge is the future home of the Robinson Education Center, featuring an open classroom that flexes as a multi-purpose space for science, learning and fun. The rehabilitation honors the lodge’s historic character by preserving its distinctive wooden half-log cladding, restoring the original roofline, and reinforcing the hand-laid stone fireplace. Modern upgrades include a new roof and trusses, structural reinforcement throughout, removal of the loft for improved functionality, new windows, an ADA-accessible entry, electrical enhancements, and refreshed interior finishes.

The Rotary Lodge

At 90 years old, the Rotary Lodge will reestablish its legacy as Camp Kilworth’s premiere gathering place. After a major refresh, the 2,500-square-foot building—plus an 800-square-foot covered porch overlooking Puget Sound and Maury Island—will host school groups, community events, and year-round youth programs. Renovations include landmark-approved composite shake roofing, new windows and doors, and a redecked porch. Inside, upgrades span electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, along with structural reinforcement, insulation, wood floors in the main hall, and full renovations of the hall, kitchen, restrooms, and office.