Register for Day Camp Manitou

Traditional camp is about exploration and discovery. Campers will explore by hiking, studying the wonder of nature, building connections through teamwork, and conquering many challenges under the leadership of well-trained staff. It exposes participants to various activities, including archery, fort building, tie-dye, gaga ball, swimming, nature studies, paddling, arts and crafts, cookouts, group games, and more. Campers will participate in some, but not all, of these activities, depending on their age and camp locations. Each camper will leave camp with a wide range of memories and experiences!

The Wee Backpacker program aims to continue fostering a love and appreciation for the outdoors. Campers sing songs, tell stories, and play games while beginning to experience the variety of activities camp has to offer. Wee Backpackers maintains a low staff-to-child ratio.

Participants discover their artistic side and let their imaginations soar. Projects may include sketching, painting, collage, beadwork, and more. Participants create masterpieces to take home and enjoy!

Participants let their imaginations soar in this magical fairytale-themed activity. Adventures will include themed arts and crafts, a mystical quest, and a royal celebration!

Arrrrrgh! Young buccaneers learn the swashbuckling lingo of pirates, play games like Capture the Pirate Flag, try their balancing skills as they walk the plank, go on treasure hunts, and much more.

BAM! POW! KAZAM! Kids think, dress, and act like superheroes! Activities include super games, super crafts, and super fun. Where else can kids spend the day exploring their superpowers as their alter-ego superheroes, meet other superheroes and save the world?

Participants become “Eco-Explorers” as they investigate the natural surroundings at camp. We will take nature treks to explore our camp environment and search for signs of local wildlife. Activities include bug safaris, nature hunts, and more!

Filled with exploration and environmental education, we’ll focus on fort-building and discovering insects, fish, and frogs. Campers will take one field trip (weather permitting) to a local lake to learn basic fishing skills while practicing the catch-and-release method for shore fishing.

Participants discover the finer points of preparing for a big outdoor adventure while learning various practical camping skills, including building a fire, making camp shelters, knot tying, campfire cooking, and more!

Participants will spend the week engaged in hands-on, interactive projects. There will be lots of learning, using their imaginations, and exploring the indoors and outdoors at camp!

Participants learn the fundamentals of archery and slingshot use, examine equipment close-up, and learn the science behind target shooting. Instructors teach proper grip, stance, and aim alignment. YMCA of the North provides equipment.

Participants learn the fundamentals of archery, examine equipment close-up, and learn the science behind target shooting. Instructors teach proper grip, stance, and aim alignment. YMCA of the North provides equipment.

Learn about basic climbing, belay techniques, knot tying, and safety. Challenge participants to test their strengths, strategy, and skill on our ropes courses.

Kids get hooked on fishing as they learn basic fishing skills. Local lakes and rivers provide the scene for fishing fun using the catch-and-release method. Campers can bring their pole and tackle or use equipment provided by YMCA of the North.

Participants spend the whole week enjoying an incredible array of water activities, including boating, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming, along with other fun water games and adventures.

Do you love working with kids in an outdoor camp setting? Here's your chance to take a leadership role! Junior Counselors are assigned to a group and assist Counselors in leading and carrying out various Day Camp programs.

Ages 14–15

Previous experience in a LIT program or leadership experience working with children is preferred. Candidates will be selected through an application and interview process while gaining career readiness experience.

Contact Demetrius Neal for more information: demetrius.neal@ymcamn.org or 651-259-6170.

A day camp lead staff member will reach out for an interview around mid-March to talk over details and information about the program. We ask for a minimum of a 3-week commitment. Hope to see you this summer!