YMCA Camp Kern

YMCA Camp Kern offers Summer Camp Programs, Overnight Camps, Summer Day Camps, Teen Camps, Horse Camps, Specialty & Theme Camps, and Family Camps. Activities listed include team-building games, outdoor exploration, archery, climbing, canoeing, zip-lining, campfires, horseback rides, riding skills, horse care, science, art, sports, and adventure.

Programs

• Summer Camp Programs — Summer camps designed to nurture independence, confidence, and connection through age-appropriate adventures, team-building games, and caring mentorship.
• Overnight Camps — Classic summer adventure where kids build friendships, explore nature, and grow in confidence through outdoor fun and teamwork.
• Summer Day Camps — Summer day camps that keep kids active, engaged, and learning close to home with hands-on activities, new friends, and outdoor exploration.
• Teen Camps — Adventure-based experiences that build life skills, confidence, and lasting friendships.
• Horse Camps — Horse-focused camp where campers learn riding skills, care for horses, and gain confidence in a supportive, rustic setting.
• Specialty & Theme Camps — Themed camps for interests such as science, art, sports, or adventure.
• Family Camps — Outdoor adventures, campfires, and quality family time in a relaxed and welcoming camp environment.
• Memorial Day Family Camp — Long weekend of archery, climbing, canoeing, zip-lining, campfires, and optional horseback rides.
• Labor Day Family Camp — Holiday weekend with traditional camp adventures, self-led activities, and family bonding.
• Mini-Family Camp — Shorter weekend getaway with cabin-style lodging and staffed activities like climbing, canoeing, pony or trail rides, plus campfire programs.
• Week-Long Summer Family Camp — A full week at camp with daily traditional camp activities, themed Big Games, and counselor-led afternoons for kids.

At a glance

• Facility hours: Monday through Friday 8.30am to 5pm

About the provider

YMCA Camp Kern has been operating since 1910. It is part of the YMCA of Greater Dayton and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Its mission is to unleash the potential in all through enriching outdoor experiences. The camp is one of the oldest continually operating YMCA camps in the U.S.

• Super-Weekend Stayover — Friday-Sunday · Weekend lodging for campers spending two or more consecutive weeks at YMCA Camp Kern.

Safety is always the top priority. Campers, parents, teams, and company groups are welcomed, supported, and valued. The camp does not and shall not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, income, or immigrant status.

What families say

“Wow! Elizabeth had such growth in just one week. I wish I could send her to more sessions (she asked to return before we even left the parking lot). She came home and was excited to show us the camp songs and tell us how she had grown up over the last week. I can already see the impact the week at camp has made.” — Mom of Camper

“My kids went to Camp Kern for the first time and loved it! Two weeks later, they’re still talking about it. We’ll be back next year!” — Camp Parent

“This was my daughter’s first time. She hasn’t stopped talking about it and can’t wait to return. It’s so comforting knowing she felt safe, happy, and at home.” — Camp Parent

Last updated October 15, 2026.