About
YMCA Camp MacLean offers activities such as campfires, canoeing, archery, hiking, swimming, sports, rock climbing, crafts, and high ropes. The program includes a variety of engaging camps, including overnight and specialty options such as Family Camp, Aquatics Camp, and High Adventure Camp. Co-ed youth connect with nature, build relationships, develop their character and independence, and create long-lasting memories and friendships at YMCA Camp MacLean.
• Ages: 7–16 years old
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Since 1941, children and teens have spent their summers at Camp MacLean learning new skills, building lasting friendships, and having the summer of their lives in a safe and caring environment. The mission of YMCA Camp MacLean is to teach self-reliance, a love for nature, and the development of healthy practices and meaningful relationships, with activities that include campfires, canoeing, archery, hiking, and swimming. The camp provides a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment to every camper and offers scholarships to campers in financial need. Thanks to a partnership between the YMCA Community Schools Initiative and YMCA Camp MacLean, dozens of Chicago youth experience overnight camp, many for the first time. Parents receive resources such as the 2026 Parent Handbook & Packing List, LIT/CIT Packing List & Backpack Camp Packing List, Health Form and Online Medical History Form, Horseback Waiver and Participant Waiver, and instructions on how to upload forms. One parent shared that “She came back smiling and very happy. She had a very good time and that is exactly what I was looking for in a camp,” and another noted, “He came home with good insights and a more mature attitude and behavior. We loved what it did for him.”
Last updated July 28, 2026.
• Ages: 7–16 years old
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Since 1941, children and teens have spent their summers at Camp MacLean learning new skills, building lasting friendships, and having the summer of their lives in a safe and caring environment. The mission of YMCA Camp MacLean is to teach self-reliance, a love for nature, and the development of healthy practices and meaningful relationships, with activities that include campfires, canoeing, archery, hiking, and swimming. The camp provides a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment to every camper and offers scholarships to campers in financial need. Thanks to a partnership between the YMCA Community Schools Initiative and YMCA Camp MacLean, dozens of Chicago youth experience overnight camp, many for the first time. Parents receive resources such as the 2026 Parent Handbook & Packing List, LIT/CIT Packing List & Backpack Camp Packing List, Health Form and Online Medical History Form, Horseback Waiver and Participant Waiver, and instructions on how to upload forms. One parent shared that “She came back smiling and very happy. She had a very good time and that is exactly what I was looking for in a camp,” and another noted, “He came home with good insights and a more mature attitude and behavior. We loved what it did for him.”
Last updated July 28, 2026.
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