YMCA Camp Wanica

YMCA Camp Wanica

Overview

Escape the city and experience the serenity of East Texas at YMCA Camp Wanica, located just south of Corsicana off Highway 287. Nestled among tree-shaded acres, Camp Wanica offers a rustic and relaxing retreat while remaining just minutes from town.

At the heart of the camp sits McElwee Lodge, a charming structure built in the 1930s atop a gentle rise. Surrounding the lodge are a variety of amenities perfect for recreation, relaxation, and group gatherings.

Facilities Include:

• McElwee Lodge (historic 1930s architecture)
• Two large, climate-controlled sleeping cabins
• Family swimming pool with adjacent bathhouse
• Playground and soft play area
• Outdoor cook-out area
• Basketball court
• Dining hall
• Showers and restrooms with hot water

Rentals & Events

Camp Wanica is ideal for:

• Overnight and weekend stays
• Daily or hourly swimming pool rentals
• Weddings and receptions
• Anniversary and birthday celebrations
• Family and class reunions
• Church retreats and civic gatherings
• Company picnics and business seminars
• School field trips and youth group outings

Please Note: Summer months fill up quickly — early booking is highly recommended.

Our History

Camp Wanica sits on ten acres of land about seven miles southeast of Corsicana. The land was donated by the J.W. McKie estate to provide a campsite for the Corsicana Camp Fire Girls. In 1928, a group of civic-minded individuals worked together to bring this vision to life, and by the 1930s, McElwee Lodge was constructed.

The name “Wanica” was chosen to reflect a combination of Native American words that mean hills, trees, and high ideals — values that still shape the spirit of Camp Wanica today.

Honoring Our Founders

The lodge is named after W.E. (Tom) McElwee, co-founder of Collin Street Bakery and a longtime member of the Corsicana YMCA Board of Directors. McElwee and his business partner, August Weidmann, began the bakery in 1896 and created the famous DeLuxe Fruitcake.

YMCA Stewardship

In March 2007, the Camp Fire Association sold Camp Wanica to the YMCA of Corsicana. Since then, the site has become home to the YMCA’s Day Camp programs, providing outdoor fun and learning each summer.

Additionally, The Camp of the Rising Sun, which serves children with special needs, continues to use the site — keeping alive a long-standing tradition of inclusive service.

Location & Access

Address: Just off Highway 287, south of Corsicana, Texas
Proximity: Approximately 7 miles southeast of downtown Corsicana
Access: Easily reachable from town while offering a quiet, immersive camp setting