Bear Valley YMCA Resident Camp

Bear Valley YMCA Resident Camp offers hiking, swimming, playing games, practicing outdoor skills, and evening activities such as team building, campfire, all camp activities, and cabin time. A typical day includes breakfast and inspiration followed by outdoor activity sessions in the morning, activity sessions and an all camp activity in the afternoon, and an evening activity and campfire after dinner.

• Ages: 8–18 years old
• Schedule: One-week Summer Camp sessions, plus Family Camp Session 1 (6/26–6/28) and Family Camp Session 2 (8/28–8/30)
• Price: Summer Camp $700 per week for Sessions 1–4 (7/6–7/10, 7/13–7/17, 7/20–7/24, 7/27–7/31); Family Camp Session 1 and 2 Tent Family Camp $350 per session; Cabin Family Camp $550 per session

Bear Valley YMCA Camp has been creating adventure and memories in the High Sierra for over 80 years. The camp offers Traditional Camp for kids ages 8–13, a Counselor in Training (CIT) program for teens ages 14–16, and Family Camp for families of all ages with adult participation required. The CIT program includes leadership development, helping run evening activities, team building, learning what it takes to be a camp staff member, and assisting staff and campers in cabins; CIT applicants are interviewed and initially placed on a waitlist pending interview. Volunteers must be 17 years or older and complete an interview process prior to placement.

Nutritious, kid-friendly meals are served family-style in a historic dining hall, are reviewed by a dietitian, and are prepared by a certified cook, and special dietary needs can be accommodated. An on-site general store offers healthy snacks, drinks, apparel, and essentials. The program emphasizes the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and encourages campers to unplug from screens and explore the outdoors in a setting that focuses on building independence in a supportive, nurturing environment.

The mission of Bear Valley YMCA Resident Camp, as part of the YMCA of Superior California, is to inspire all to a healthy life in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of Superior California is described as a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving back and strengthening communities, supported by volunteers and public and private donors. The Y provides programs that include summer meals for kids, free childcare for parents in court, and falls prevention for seniors, and Financial Assistance through Y-Assist is available so every child has the chance to experience camp regardless of income or background. Bear Valley Camp can also be rented for retreats, workshops, seminars, and weddings, with weekend and weekly accommodations offered for groups of all sizes.

Last updated March 27, 2026.