Where Friends and Fun Come Together
Sleeping at camp is a defining characteristic of our overnight camps. By living with other participants and sharing outdoor experiences, children develop lifelong skills like teamwork, personal responsibility, and respect – for nature, for others, and for themselves.
While all YMCA overnight camps feature 'traditional' camp activities – including archery, swimming, paddling, outdoor education, climbing/challenge, arts and crafts, fishing, and so much more – each location is unique in how and what 'specialty activities' it offers.
These 'specialty activities' create space for participants to pursue a wide range of interests that they may only get a sample of otherwise – like archery, horseback riding, sailing, and much more.
Activities and Programs
All YMCA overnight camp experiences include 'traditional' activities – including archery, swimming, outdoor education, arts and crafts, fishing, and so much more. In addition, each location gives campers the option to select from a unique set of 'specialty' activities to spend more time with.
Canoe / Kayak
Participants learn paddling skills and canoe/kayak safety as they experience the challenge of navigating water! Kids learn to identify the parts of the canoe/kayak, paddling techniques, and the importance of teamwork.
Climbing / Challenge
Climbers learn about basic climbing, belay techniques, knot tying, and climbing safety. Challenge participants strike test their strength, strategy, and skill on our ropes courses.
Drama
Kids free their imaginations and develop improvisational skills! Participants explore the world of theater through games, acting exercises, learning about stage make-up, and even performing for an audience.
Horses
Participants in our horse program develop from novice riders to young adults experienced in many aspects of equine care, grooming, riding, and training.
Leadership
Participants build upon their outdoor skills to develop their leadership skills. Available leadership programs include BOLD & GOLD, Counselors in Training (CIT), Service Leadership, and Work Leadership.
Photography
Participants will learn the basics of photography and will experiment with both portrait and landscape photography. Each day will be a different theme – from the viewpoint of an ant or include a tree as a subject.
Sailing
Each day young sailors learn the basics of sailing and safety with YMCA instructors. Participants will be taught techniques and terminology for operating our fleet of sailboats as they practice their skills.
Traditional
Traditional camp is about exploration and discovery. It exposes participants to many different activities – including archery, swimming, paddling, outdoor education, arts and crafts, fishing, and so much more – so that each camper leaves camp with a wide range of memories and experiences!
What to Expect
Available At
Experiences vary by location.
Making Adventure Accessible
The YMCA offers need-based financial assistance to help people access the programs that are important to them.
Here to Help
Have a question or need assistance?
Our customer service team is always happy to help.