The Moody Foundation, an organization dedicated to ‘building a bigger and better future for Texas’, recently granted the YMCA of Austin $6.25M. This generous grant will support the YMCA’s efforts in developing the 85-acre land, formally known as Camp Cypress, into an affordable and accessible overnight and day camp for the underserved individuals of Central Texas. The camp nestled off Old San Antonio Road in North Buda is home to several native species and features dramatic limestone outcrops and Bald Cypress trees lining the Onion Creek banks.

Collaborating with Overland Partners and JE Dunn Construction, the updates to this camp will include treehouse cabins, two bunk cabin villages, a dining hall, a 12,000-sqaure-foot enclosed competition aquatic center, 700-foot dual zip lines, climbing wall, archery range, ropes course, entertainment amphitheater, open-air sports space and accessible trails. Most importantly, all these amenities and activities will utilize universal design to be accessible and welcoming to people of all abilities.

“My favorite part about working on this project is the level of collaboration between the YMCA and the design team” says Studio8 Architect, Amy Westermeyer. “It is very clear that the YMCA is passionate about their mission and want a clear balance of function and thoughtful engagement with the natural environment”. Building upon this mission, the design aims to visually connect the built and natural environments so that camp users may find respite from the challenges of the day-to-day life. Camp Moody will be a destination where all persons can find common ground in the joys of nature, play, and healthy living so that we may nurture our spirit, mind, and body.

Learn more about the project here.