Welcome to YMCA Camp DeBoer, where adventure, exploration, and seasons of memories await!
Set amidst the natural beauty of the Lake of the Woods, our camp provides a safe, nurturing, and exciting environment for children and youth to discover, learn, and grow. At YMCA Camp DeBoer, we believe in the power of outdoor experiences to inspire, educate, and transform young lives. Our camp offers a diverse range of programs and activities that cater to campers of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. Whether your child is a first-time camper or a returning adventurer, they’ll find something to ignite their passion and spark their curiosity.
Overnight Camps
We offer something for every kind of camper:
- Overnight Camp – ages 8-14
Our traditional overnight camp is filled with fun and nonstop excitement! We have developed programs and activities that build confidence, social skills, and self-esteem. Through this program, campers can learn new skills or further existing ones by participating in the many activities camp has to offer. In a safe, healthy environment, care and guidance is always on hand to encourage children to try new activities. Includes: group games, canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, archery, swimming, sports, arts and crafts, fishing and much more!
- Mini Overnight Camp – ages 6-8
Three fun-filled days of camp activities geared more towards your child’s age, interests, and abilities. Much time and attention is put into mini camp activities, knowing that this may be your child’s first time away from home. Rest assured that responsible staff closely supervise all activities to give your camper a safe and enjoyable experience. With at least one counselor to a six camper ratio, each camper will receive plenty of care and attention.
- Trails Quest Camp – ages 14-18
Trails Quest is a week long backpacking program for campers ages 14-18. Start at YMCA Camp DeBoer for outfitting and then hit the trails for a unique combination of fun and challenge covering up to 15 miles/day. Campers experience spectacular scenic areas, build wilderness skills as they hike and camp, foster deep connections with their crew, and leave their week on the trail with lifelong memories. Use your own gear or rent ours for a sweet week in the woods!
- Leaders in Training Camp – ages 14-15
This camp program is designed much like our traditional overnight camp, but geared more towards the older teen. Leadership and teamwork activities alongside traditional camp activities.
- Junior Counselors Volunteer Program – ages 16-17
This is a volunteer program allowing teens to get camp counselor experience and be part of the staff team at camp. Junior Counselors will fill out a volunteer application, interview for limited spots, participate in some staff training and have an average of 1-2 weeks participating in camp.
Outdoor School (ODS) at YMCA Camp DeBoer
What participating students and teachers have to look forward to:
- A beautiful location featuring several ecosystems, including a large marsh and surrounding forest.
- A site-based curriculum designed specifically for what our environment has to offer.
- Capacity for 120 students plus additional chaperones/teachers for ODS experiences lasting 3-5 days.
- Spring and fall programs.
- New facilities, heated cabins and gorgeous lake views
- The opportunity to build friendships and practice academic teamwork, all within an inclusive learning environment.
We are currently accepting schools/classes up to 120 students per session for Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 Outdoor School. Please look over our information booklet and contact Karin Onkka, Outdoor Education Director, at outdoored@ashlandymca.org for more information.
Facility Rentals
Offerings:
- Looking for a venue for your group? We offer facility rentals to a variety of different groups. Contact ycampdeboer@ashlandymca.org for more information!
Summer Day Camps at the Ashland Family YMCA
Looking for summer day camps at our Ashland facility? We have those!