About
Operation Camp is a program of the Armed Services YMCA Twentynine Palms. Camps and camping opportunities are one of the Armed Services YMCA’s most popular programs, and Operation Camp focuses on building confidence and enhancing self-image, improving social skills that reflect age-appropriate behavior, teaching conflict resolution and the healthy management and expression of anger, increasing bonds with family and friends, and equipping military children and families with tools and resources to cope with the challenges of military life.
• Schedule: 2026 Camp: YMCA Camp Oakes, Big Bear, CA Dates TBD (Sunday through Friday)
• Price: Campers register through Armed Services YMCA 29 Palms to receive their discounted military rate.
The Armed Services YMCA Twentynine Palms was established locally in 1992. Its mission is to enhance the lives of military members and their families in spirit, mind, and body through programs relevant to the unique challenges of military life. The organization holds a Charity Navigator 4-Star rating, a Charity Watch A Grade, and a Candid Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency. It partners with local YMCAs so that military children attend summer camp alongside civilian children from the local area. The leadership team includes Patrick Byrne, Executive Director; Sara Beams, Development & Marketing Manager; and Heather Kines, Thrift Store Manager.
Parent feedback about Operation Camp includes comments such as, “My son had such an amazing time - appreciate all of you. This is such an important opportunity for these children, and my youngest can't wait to go in a couple years,” from L. Jung, and, “The Marines that were with my 3 kids were a part of nearly every story they have told. They were far more than just counselors/watchers they were part of the group!” from E. Inman.
Last updated March 13, 2026.
• Schedule: 2026 Camp: YMCA Camp Oakes, Big Bear, CA Dates TBD (Sunday through Friday)
• Price: Campers register through Armed Services YMCA 29 Palms to receive their discounted military rate.
The Armed Services YMCA Twentynine Palms was established locally in 1992. Its mission is to enhance the lives of military members and their families in spirit, mind, and body through programs relevant to the unique challenges of military life. The organization holds a Charity Navigator 4-Star rating, a Charity Watch A Grade, and a Candid Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency. It partners with local YMCAs so that military children attend summer camp alongside civilian children from the local area. The leadership team includes Patrick Byrne, Executive Director; Sara Beams, Development & Marketing Manager; and Heather Kines, Thrift Store Manager.
Parent feedback about Operation Camp includes comments such as, “My son had such an amazing time - appreciate all of you. This is such an important opportunity for these children, and my youngest can't wait to go in a couple years,” from L. Jung, and, “The Marines that were with my 3 kids were a part of nearly every story they have told. They were far more than just counselors/watchers they were part of the group!” from E. Inman.
Last updated March 13, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.