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Mankato Family YMCA Overnight Camp

CONNECT. DISCOVER. BELONG.

2026 Sessions
June 7-12
June 14-19
June 21-26
August 2-7

Overnight Camp is more than just a week away from home—it’s a place where kids discover who they are and what they can do. Away from screens and routines, campers dive into six days, five nights filled with laughter, friendships, and challenges that build confidence and independence. Here, they learn to paddle their own canoe all while growing in courage, resilience, and belonging. At YMCA Overnight Camp, every moment is an opportunity to explore the outdoors, connect with others, and create memories that last long after the summer sun sets.

“We chose Mankato Family YMCA Summer Camp because of its great reputation. Sending your kid off to summer camp can be a bit daunting, but knowing staff at camp were trained, educated, and cared about our daughter made all the difference.”

“It’s absolutely amazing that they can keep the kids entertained for a week without phones! In today’s day and age that says a lot about the people in charge and activities offered at this camp! They are able to connect with friends and make new friends!”

“Her cabin became very close and they each cried as each one of them was picked up. She got a bunch of phone numbers and have had play dates with a few girls already. None of the girls went to her same school and she has become good friends with them! Thanks Camp!”

“The counselors are absolutely amazing!! My son looks up to his counselors each and every year! Their amazing leadership allows the kids to be comfortable and express themselves in all of the activities they offer!”

“My kids loved it! They are so excited to go again next year!!”

The purpose of the Mankato Family YMCA Summer Camp program is to create a safe, fun, and inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to develop and feel valued.
  1. To promote a sense of self-confidence, self-efficiency, and independence.
  2. To build positive relationships with peers and other adults.
  3. To provide a variety of activities that develop skills in the fields of arts, STEM, and games.
  4. To teach character development using the core values; caring, honesty, responsibility, respect and faith.
  • Caring:  Show sincere concern for others
  • Honesty: Be truthful in what you say and do
  • Responsibility: Be accountable for your promises and actions
  • Respect: Treat others as we’d all like to be treated
  • Faith: Deep trust and confidence in someone or something

OUR CAMP

Traditional Camper
Grades 3-8

Traditional camp is packed with adventure, connection, and discovery. Campers are introduced to classic camp activities like canoeing, arts & crafts, archery, exploring the outdoors, and of course all-camp games that are wild and crazy. Campers share stories around the campfire, grow with their cabin groups, and learn the true meaning of teamwork and friendship. Every moment is designed to build confidence, spark curiosity, and create the kind of memories that last long after camp ends.

Leader In Training
Grades 9-10

The Leadership In Training (LIT) program offers a transformative experience for young campers, focusing on building essential leadership skills, fostering self-awareness, and understanding the power of giving back to the community. Through this program, LITs develop qualities such as empathy, emotional intelligence, resilience, and a strong sense of individuality. Participants gain transferable skills for their future while cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and confidence. The LIT program empowers youth to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact within their camp community and beyond.

Counselor In Training
Grades 11-12

The Counselor In Training (CIT) Program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to explore the mission and purpose of our camp while developing valuable leadership skills. CITs will have the chance to shadow experienced staff in specific program areas, guide younger campers through their favorite activities, and plan an exciting afternoon event for younger campers. This hands-on experience is designed for campers who are passionate about working with children and have the aspiration to become a YMCA Summer Camp staff member in the future. It’s the perfect way to build confidence, gain practical skills, and deepen your connection to the YMCA community.

Junior Counselor
Grade 12

The Junior Counselor (JC) program offers an exciting opportunity for individuals who have completed the Counselor in Training (CIT) program and are eager to gain hands-on experience before becoming a full-time camp counselor. Designed for those not yet 18, this program allows participants to immerse themselves in the daily life of a cabin counselor. JCs will be actively involved in cabin time, leading both large and small group activities, assisting with mealtime, supporting check-in/check-out processes, and experiencing the full scope of a counselor’s responsibilities. Paired with an experienced mentor, JCs will receive guidance, build meaningful connections with fellow staff, and gain the skills needed to succeed in future camp roles. This program is perfect for those who are aspiring to become a camp counselor in the coming years. For more information, please contact our Director of Youth Development.

CAMP IS FOR EVERYONE

We believe that every family should experience the power of Summer Camp. Financial assistance is available to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in our programs and services. We are committed to making our offerings accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstances. Our financial assistance decisions are made by a team of staff who thoughtfully review each application and collaborate to award support in a fair and consistent way. If you or your family need assistance, it can be requested during the registration process or by contacting our Director of Youth Development.

Camp’s Entrance

The camp entrance is where all the magic begins. For new campers and staff alike, it marks the start of friendships, opportunities, and memories that will last a lifetime. For returning campers, it’s an instant reminder of past experiences at the Y’s Overnight Camp at Camp Patterson, bringing a sense of joy, excitement, and comfort in a place they get to call home. As you enter, you feel a warm sense of belonging, and as you leave, you can look back and see the memories that were made.

The Cabins

Our camp features 14 cabins nestled throughout the property, designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and community-focused space for every camper. 10 of these are traditional cabins, each with five sets of bunk beds and the capacity to sleep up to 12 campers. Additional bunks can be added as needed. The other 4 cabins can sleep anywhere from 8 to 24 campers, and these are typically reserved for our Leaders In Training.

Each cabin is thoughtfully designed with storage shelves, a clothesline, and a welcoming porch, surrounded by landscaped grounds that create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. While cabins are not air-conditioned or heated, each has easily accessible windows that provide excellent airflow and a connection to the outdoors.

To add a touch of fun and identity, each cabin is named after an animal, from insects for our youngest campers to the King and Queen of the jungle for our oldest, giving every group a unique sense of pride and belonging.”

The Dining Hall

At camp, the dining hall is where energy, laughter, and community come together. It’s where campers fuel up for adventures, share stories from the day, and form lasting friendships over a plate of delicious food.

Whether enjoying a fan-favorite dish, trying something new, or participating in a themed meal, the dining hall is a hub of connection and fun. Campers gather here for group activities, celebrations, and special surprises that turn every meal into a memorable experience. The dining hall is more than a place to eat; it’s the heartbeat of camp, where belonging grows, stories are shared, and every day is celebrated together.

The Boat House

The boathouse sits directly on the beach of Lake Washington and serves as the central hub for all waterfront activities. From learning to canoe and improving paddling skills to practicing proper safety procedures with life jackets and instruction, the boathouse is where campers build confidence on the water. It is also home to all waterfront equipment and serves as an additional storm shelter. In the mornings, campers meet in or near the boathouse for canoe instruction before paddling out in our Alumacraft canoes. One morning later in the week is dedicated to learning what to do if a canoe tips and how to safely flip it back over. In the afternoons, campers are free to enjoy the water using canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards.

The Archery Range

Our archery range, located just across from the Dining Hall, is a favorite spot for campers looking to try something new or perfect a skill. The range features six targets set at distances of 5, 10, 15, and 20 yards, providing challenges for beginners and seasoned archers alike.

Campers participate in our progression program, earning archery pins as they improve and reach new milestones. Every bullseye is met with the satisfying ring of a cowbell and a round of cheers, making each success feel like a celebration.

Open during morning rotations and afternoon camper choice periods, the range offers opportunities for skill-building, focus, and fun, experiences many campers can only have at camp. Campers are also welcome to bring their own bows if they wish.”

Lake Washington

Our camp is beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Washington in Kasota, MN, providing endless opportunities for adventure and connection with nature. Campers enjoy a wide range of lake-based activities, including swimming, canoeing, boating, and fun waterfront games.

A highlight of the week is paddling out to the beloved Grassy Island, a favorite spot in the middle of the lake where campers bond with their canoe partners and create lasting memories. For those who enjoy fishing, campers can try their luck off the camp shoreline, where catches have included crappies, bass, walleye, bluegills, bullheads, and even carp!

Campfire

Campfire is one of the most cherished traditions at camp, bringing everyone together at the end of each day. Throughout the week, campers take part in three high-energy, fun-filled campfires packed with songs, skits, and games. Only at camp can a simple song or silly skit spark such a shared sense of connection and community.

In addition, campers participate in two reflective campfires, designed to inspire self-discovery, encourage personal growth, and strengthen bonds within the camp community. Whether playful or thoughtful, every campfire is the perfect way to end the day united, inspired, and full of camp spirit.

Our Traditions

Tradition runs deep at camp and is part of what makes the experience so special. Every year, returning campers love reliving their favorite traditions, while new campers cannot wait to discover what all the excitement is about. At YMCA Overnight Camp, traditions are moments campers look forward to, talk about, and remember long after the summer ends.

Our traditions include No Utensil and Tie-Dye Tuesday, Color Wars (with a Red Team Captain painted head to toe in red!), themed dress-up nights (Red, White, and Blue, Western Night, Neon or Wacky Night, and Hawaiian Night), camp songs, egg roulette, the bullseye archery bell, cleanest and messiest cabin competitions, capture the flag, dance parties, and more! Each year, these traditions mean more and more to our camp community.

THE FOOD

Our camp menu is thoughtfully crafted to introduce campers to new foods while keeping familiar favorites on the table. Every meal is designed to fuel adventure, build community, and ensure every camper feels at home.

We’re proud to partner with Sadaka’s Deli, located in the Madison East Mall in Mankato, MN, where owner and chef Susu Sadaka brings her remarkable talent and heart to our camp kitchen. Susu is more than our cook, she’s a cherished part of our camp family. With her passion for fresh, flavorful food and her unwavering commitment to hospitality, she ensures all of us has a positive dining experience.

From accommodating food allergies to offering creative meal options, Susu’s attention to detail and care help make camp a place where every child feels valued, included, and loved. Her dedication reminds us daily that a full stomach and a welcoming table are essential to the camp experience.

“YMCA Camp Patterson holds a very special place in my heart. Every day, I look forward to going to camp, where I’m greeted with smiles and surrounded by love and positive energy. Growing up, I never had the opportunity to attend summer camp, so being part of this experience means a lot to me. From counselors to campers, it truly feels like we’re one big family, and it’s an honor to be a part of it.”

-Susu

PACKING LIST

CLOTHING:

  • Long sleeve shirt
  • Jacket with hood or Rain Coat
  • Sweatshirts (2)
  • Pants (3)
  • T-shirts (5)
  • Shorts (3-4)
  • Pajamas/ Sweats (3-4)
  • Socks (6 pairs)
  • Underwear (6 pairs)
  • Swim suit(s)
  • Tennis Shoes
  • Sandals

BEDDING:

  • Sleeping Bag or Sheets (twin)
  • Pillow with pillowcase
  • 2 Towels (1-beach & 1-shower)
  • Stuffed Animal (optional)

MISC:

  • Sun Screen & Lip balm
  • Insect Repellent
  • Toiletries (toothpaste, soap, toothbrush, shampoo, etc.)
  • White T-shirt for tie dying or $10 for Resident camp shirt
  • Flashlight
  • Book/Reading material
  • Refillable Water bottle

OPTIONAL:

  • Stationary/Envelopes/Stamps
  • Hawaiian Shirt
  • Fishing Gear
  • Camera
  • Hat
  • Dirty clothes bag
  • Musical Instrument

Items Not allowed at camp:

The items not allowed at camp include: call phones/smart watches, weapons, electronics, tobacco/drugs/vapes, alcohol, toys/trading cards, money, or inappropriate clothing. If any of these items are found, they will be taken and stored with the Director of Youth Development until check out.

” Our older daughter went every year and now we continue the tradition with our son! He has gone 2 years! This year will be his third year! “

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” My daughter was introduced to kids from other schools and developed a lot of friendships she otherwise wouldn’t have had. She seems more outgoing and can adapt better to situations where she doesn’t know anyone than she could before attending the Y! “

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” They are kind, welcoming, encouraging and make my son feel like he is loved and important. What more could a parent ask for? “
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” The staff are AMAZING!! Couldn’t ask for a better group of people to uplift and motivated the kids for a week! “

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” I appreciate the effort that goes into making every day memorable and fun.
Camp is a fun and safe place where our son can just be himself. “
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” Keep doing what you’re doing! It is a great asset to our community to have a fun, safe place for kids to go! “
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” See you all again next year! “
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” Great experience for our daughter! She wants to go to multiple weeks next year! “

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” Thank you for making a space for my kids to make new connections and exist without technology! “

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91% of parents noticed growth within confidence, independence, and social skills after camp

95% of parents would send their camper again to YMCA Overnight Camp

FAQs

Payment & Registration

  • Member: February 16
  • Non Member: March 2

Registration opens at 8:00am on the dates listed above. Registration occurs online through your YMCA account. A $25 non-refundable deposit per camp session is required to reserve camper’s spot(s). Each deposit is applied to the final camp balance.

A non-refundable & nontransferable deposit of $25 is required for each week your camper plans to attend. The deposit is deducted from the overall weekly fee and secures your spot unless the remaining balance is not received by the 15th of the month prior to attending.

Camp payments are due in full by the 15th of the month prior to the camp beginning. If a camp week extends into two months, the balance is collected according to when the camp began.

  • June Camps: Due May 15th
  • August Camp: Due July 15th
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Yes, click the “Register” icon at the top of the website homepage. Click “log in / register online”. On the left side you will see “My Programs and Balances”.

We do offer financial assistance. Applications open the first Monday in February each year. Those in need must apply once each camp season. If you receive assistance for your YMCA membership, you must still apply for summer camp assistance. Our funding is different from the membership department and varies from year to year. To apply, download the application below, fill in the appropriate information, and email it to our Director of Youth Development, Dustin ([email protected]). Once received, the application is reviewed by our team and a decision is made within 5-10 business days. Award letters are emailed to the email listed on the application. If you have questions, contact our Director of Youth Development, Dustin at [email protected]

Those who wish to withdraw their registration for a camp must do so no later than two (2) full weeks before the camp is scheduled to start. No refunds will be given after the two (2) week policy prior to the start of camp.  The $25 deposit used to register per session is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Membership withdrawal notice: If you are registered for a program and you cancel your membership, you will be billed for the nonmember rate of the program.

Camp Communications

We utilize a variety of platforms to keep people informed throughout the camp season. A welcome email is sent out BEFORE your camp session. This email consists of the parent handbook, key reminders, and the REMIND codes needed for further communication. From there, we use a free texting service called REMIND. This is our primary platform of communication. We utilize REMIND to communicate behavior issues, minor injuries, and other updates about campers. This information goes directly to the parent/guardian. Lastly, we have a Youth Facebook page called Mankato Family YMCA Youth (@YMCAMankatoYouth) and a Youth Instagram account (@mankatoymcayouth) for promotional purposes. Make sure to check out our social media platforms for photos of your camper!

Once you register for camp, an email confirmation will be sent to you. Within that email, there will be a list of the REMIND codes. You will text the code to whatever camp you registered for to the number 81010. If you have the REMIND app, you will click on the 3 lines in the upper left-hand corner, click on “Add a class”, and type in the class code that was sent in the confirmation email. If you registered for multiple different camps (such as Explorers and Sports Camp) you will need to text both codes in order the updates for each individual camp.

Our confirmation and welcome emails are sent out using the same platform as other YMCA emails such as newsletter, updates, etc. If you have opted out of that communication, you have also opted out of getting the confirmation and welcome email. To opt back in,

    1. Login to their Online Account and go to the Dashboard
    2. In the top left-hand corner, there is a box with their picture and information.
    3. Inside that box is an ‘Edit Profile’ button and next to that a Settings button with the picture of a gear.
    4. Click the Settings button and select ‘Email Settings’
    5. A window will pop up that says “We will send you an email where you can edit your preferences. Click the button that says ‘Send Email’
    6. You will get an email where they can update what type of emails they want to receive from the Y.

I have a concern relating to something at camp, who should I contact?

We encourage you to communicate with us via REMIND. The communication you send, only goes to the leadership team. The leadership teams are the staff who are hands on with the kids every day. They should be able to address any concerns you might have. However, if you feel as if you are not getting an answer or the information you need, please do not hesitate to email the Director of Youth Development.

Camp takes so many photos every camp session! We love to share all the fun we experience. Photos are typically posted the following week after your camper’s session. However, depending on how many photos are taken and how long it takes our team to go through them, it may be longer. We ask for your patience as we work as quickly as possible to share the memories!

    1. Login to their Online Account and go to the Dashboard
    2. In the top left-hand corner, there is a box with their picture and information.
    3. Inside that box is an ‘Edit Profile’ button and next to that a Settings button with the picture of a gear.
    4. Click the Settings button and select ‘Email Settings’
    5. A window will pop up that says “We will send you an email where you can edit your preferences. Click the button that says ‘Send Email’
    6. You will get an email where they can update what type of emails they want to receive from the Y.

I have a concern relating to something at camp, who should I contact?

We encourage you to communicate with us via REMIND. The communication you send, only goes to the leadership team. The leadership teams are the staff who are hands on with the kids every day. They should be able to address any concerns you might have. However, if you feel as if you are not getting an answer or the information you need, please do not hesitate to email the Director of Youth Development.

PLANNING FOR CAMP

  • Check In occurs on the Sunday of your session between 1pm-2pm. Camp gates will remain locked until this time. Once camp is open, we ask that parent/guardians follow staff’s direction to park in the large field across from the Kiwanis Lodge Dining Hall. Once parked, please proceed Kiwanis Lodge Dining Hall to begin check in. Check In consists of finding out cabin placements, turning in all medications, visiting the camp store, and dropping off/writing letters to your camper. Once you have finished each station within the lodge, we ask that you proceed to your campers cabin and begin introductions with their counselor. Please do not unpack your child’s belongings. Allowing campers to unpack their own belongings and make their own bed is an important step in developing confidence in their ability to care for themselves. The counselors will assist, if needed, and use this time to get acquainted. We recommend a fairly quick drop off to help ease the separation. Goodbyes are the hardest (especially for parents). We welcome you to have a lengthier visit on Friday when picking up your child and they can show you around.
  • Check Out occurs on the Friday of your session between 1pm-2pm. Camp gates will be closed and locked until staff are ready to begin the check out process. Please be patient as we open camp gates on Friday as the entire staff team and campers just said their final goodbye. Upon opening the camp gate, you will be greeted by a staff member(s) who will identify you and check out your camper. All campers must be signed out by an authorized adult with a picture ID. Parent/Guardians will then proceed to our medical coordinator to pick up any medications that were dropped off on Sunday (including empty containers). Following checking out your child and picking up your medications, vehicles will follow staff’s direction to park in the field across from the Kiwanis Lodge. After parking, parents/guardians can proceed to their campers cabin and locate their camper! This is a great time to talk with your camper’s counselor, meet their cabin mates and take photos. After loading all your campers belongings, please follow the traffic flow out of camp to ensure we have a smooth and safe environment for all those on camp property.

Our counselors undergo an extensive interview process and a background check before being carefully selected to be a part of the camp team. Counselors are trained in CPR, First Aid, child abuse prevention, bloodborne pathogens, emergency procedures, water safety, and our camp curriculum including songs and games that incorporate values and education.

We ask that all food allergies are listed on your camper’s registration. This helps us give accurate information to our camp cook so that your camper is properly fed. Our medical coordinator also communicates directly with our camp cook, ensure that the coordinator is aware of your camper’s needs at check in. Most food allergies can be accommodated for. However, in extreme circumstances, we may ask for you to provide the food desired to ensure the safety of your child.

  • YMCA Camp Patterson focuses on self-discovery, self-confidence, and self-esteem-all through positive reinforcement, encouragement, and acceptance to create a special community focused on friendship, inclusiveness, and independence.

Campers should be developing social-emotional learning skills through self-management, social awareness, relationship building, self-awareness, and responsible decision making. YMCA school-age child care programs are not designed for one-on-one care. Therefore, evaluate if the program is appropriate for your camper.

  • Camper can model independence (Transition to and from locations, ability to dress, eat, and maintain hygiene independently.
  • Camper demonstrates the ability to regulate emotions, thoughts, and behaviors
  • Camper can express and recognize their emotions and thoughts
  • Camper exhibits the ability to empathize and respect others including those of diverse backgrounds.
  • Camper displays the ability to establish and maintain healthy relationships. This includes effective communication, listening, cooperation, and resisting inappropriate actions.
  • Campers shows the ability to make safe, healthy, and respectful choices for themselves and others.

On top of being ready, it is important that parent/guardians and campers have realistic expectations as they attend camp.

  • Talk with your child about the likelihood that they will miss home before they go off to camp.
  • Remind them that they may not enjoy every single moment of camp.
  • Assure them it is ok and normal to miss home, mom/dad, siblings or pets.
  • Ask them how they think they might feel while away.
  • Encourage your child to have a reasonable / realistic view of camp. Discuss both the ups and downs your child may experience. Your child should not feel pressured to succeed at all areas of camp.
  • Convey confidence in them and their coping skills to get through these times.
  • Discuss how you plan to keep in touch with letters. They have time to write you during rest times.
  • You can send a letter the week ahead of time so it is waiting for your camper when they arrive. In your letters use words such as “love” instead of “miss.” Keep in mind if your child is having a hard time adjusting, to receive a letter that only talks about how much you are missing them and how quiet the house is without them will only make them feel worse.
  • Try to ask questions about camp, keep your words supportive and enthusiastic;
    • “I’m so proud of you and I can’t wait for you to tell me all about the awesome things you’re doing at camp this week. What has been your favorite part so far?”
  • Prepare for the separation, if they perceive you as doubtful or anxious, it will heighten their concerns.

Refrain from telling your child “If you don’t like camp just call me and I’ll come pick you up.” This may set your child up to fail, as the first time something does not go exactly as planned he or she will want to go home and lose any motivation to try to succeed at camp.

The Camp Store is an optional part of the check in process. However, it is only open during check in. The camp store is a little different each year! We change it up to ensure that returning campers have some variety and that new campers get the newest and coolest merchandise. Every year, campers can purchase a white shirt for $10 in which we tye dye throughout the week! Campers can also purchase things like water bottles, camp plush animals, stickers, and more.

You can! However, we only allow campers to request up to TWO cabin mates. More then this, can lead to difficult cabin dynamics. The Director of Youth Development may spilt up large groups to avoid cliques. Requesting cabin mates can be done in two different ways! Upon registration, there is a question about cabin mates. Please list them there. Otherwise, you can email the Director of Youth Development (TWO WEEKS) in advance of your camper’s arrival requesting cabin mates. In order to be cabin mates, camper’s must be the same age or a year apart in school or by age. Those who do not meet this requirement, will not be honored. We do our best to honor requests, however, there are circumstances in which they cannot. Please know that campers not in the same cabin still have many opportunities to spend time together throughout the week. Understanding is appreciated.

AT CAMP

We understand campers have busy schedules, however, we discourage campers arriving late or leaving camp for any reasons. This can hinder them from getting the entire camp experience. However, if you deem necessary for your camper to arrive late/leave, please communicate with Director of Youth Development via email or REMIND. This allows us to have written documentation and plan for their arrival/departure.

We do! We place all lost & found items on a table outside the Kiwanis Lodge Dining Hall (near the road) for check out! Be sure to check this out when you pick up your camper! After each session, counselors clean up camp. If items are found, they will be brought back to the Mankato Family YMCA and placed at Camp’s Lost & Found by Door A. After two weeks, these items are donated to local organizations. The staff do everything they can to ensure campers go home with all that they came with. We ask that campers label their belongings with their first and last name in case things get misplaced.

We have a medical coordinator on staff for every session of camp. This individual is responsible for ensuring every camper is comfortable and healthy while at camp. This includes sickness and injuries. If your camper gets sick, the medical coordinator will asses the situation and follow practical ways to help the camper feel better. This includes, rest, hydrating, and eating. If the sickness seems to be getting worse, the medical coordinator will contact you for next steps which could include medication. If sickness continues, pick up may be requested. If a camper vomits, pick up is required. Campers must be home for 24 hours fever free before returning to camp if they so choose.

Most injuries at camp are minor as safety is our number one priority, however, if a camper does get injured, the medical coordinator will perform basic first aid and do everything they can to get the camper comfortable and back to scheduled activities. In the case of more severe injuries, the medical coordinator will contact you.

The safety and well-being of our campers are always our top priorities. The Director of Youth Development and camp leadership team continuously monitor weather conditions throughout the day to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

At camp, a little rain never slows us down, we embrace it! Campers may continue outdoor play in light rain, but at the first sign of severe or unsafe weather, we immediately adjust plans. This may include pausing waterfront activities, moving programs indoors, or switching to one of our many rainy-day activities.

In the event of major or severe weather, parents and guardians will be notified promptly through REMIND communication. Rain or shine, we’re committed to ensuring campers have a safe, positive, and memorable camp experience

Visiting your camper is not recommended during the camp day as it often disrupts the flow of not only your camper but other campers as well. If you feel a visit is necessary, contact the Director of Youth Development to discuss.

The goal of the Mankato Family YMCA Summer Camp program is to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for its campers and staff. The YMCA teaches the core values of caring, honesty, responsibility, respect, and faith. The campers who attend the program are expected to follow the behavior guidelines and to interact appropriately in a group setting. Behavior considered inappropriate at the YMCA are listed below.

    • Forms of aggression such as hitting, kicking, pushing, biting, choking, throwing objects, verbal threats, disrespectful language, inappropriate gestures, inappropriate touching, sexualized behavior, etc.
    • Behavior that intentionally causes destruction to YMCA or fellow participant/staff property.
      • Graffiti, malicious destruction of property, intentional misuse of equipment, etc.
      • Parent/Guardians are financially responsible for any damages caused from destruction
    • Behavior that results in a consistent disruption to the YMCA Summer Camp environment
      • Leaving the program area/building without permission, refusal to follow directions, inability to stay on schedule or transition to and from activity.
    • Any additional behavior that does not align with the Mankato Family YMCA Core Values
      • Caring, Honesty, Responsibility, Respect, & Faith
  • All behavior issues are documented. If behavior occurs, the following steps are followed:
    • Staff redirect the camper to more appropriate behaviors and are reminded of guidelines and rules
    • If behavior continues, parents will be notified and informed of behavior and redirecting instructions given, and how behavior is affecting the camp program.
    • If behavior continues, a meeting will be scheduled to discuss the campers behavior and expectations to move forward
    • If behavior continues, camper will be suspended or dismissed from YMCA Summer Camp.

Although the above steps may be implemented in sequential order, YMCA administrative staff retains the right to take immediate action if the child’s behavior poses a threat to their own safety or the safety of other children/staff. No refund of any amount will be given if a camper is dismissed due to behavioral issues.

We have a medical coordinator on staff for every session of camp. This individual is responsible for ensuring every camper has what they need to be successful at camp including medications.

    • All medications must be turned in to the Medical Coordinator at check-in. Please do not pack medications in your camper’s belongings.
    • Be sure to provide clear instructions regarding dosage, timing, and frequency for every medication your camper requires.
    • All medications and containers will be returned to the parent or guardian at the end of the week.

Camp also maintains a supply of over-the-counter and nonprescription medications, including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, cold medicine, melatonin, and more, as well as a variety of first aid supplies to ensure campers are safe and well cared for throughout their stay.

From the moment the sun rises, the fun doesn’t stop! Mornings are packed with adventure as campers rotate through classic camp activities like canoeing, archery, outdoor exploration, and arts & crafts. Each designed to challenge skills, spark creativity, and build confidence.

Afternoons are all about camper choice because we believe camp is best when kids help shape their own experience! Campers can find their favorite activities or try something new, like arts & crafts, boating, swimming, group games, water activities, yard games, and so much more.

As the day winds down, the entire camp comes together for our well known all-camp events, huge themed experiences like Organized Mass Chaos, Camp Olympics, Skit Night, Capture the Flag, and the unforgettable Patterson Party.

Evenings bring the heart of the camp experience: campfire. It’s where laughter continues with skits, songs, and silly traditions, but also where reflection happens. Two special reflective campfires encourage campers to look inward, celebrate growth, and discover who they are meant to be. Each night concludes with cabin debriefs, where campers share their favorite moments, connect with their cabinmates, and end the day with gratitude and belonging.

The days after camp can be filled with big emotions! We encourage families to welcome their camper home with open arms and lots of curiosity. Ask about their favorite activities, new friends, and memorable moments.

It’s also normal for campers to feel a little off as they transition back to their daily routines. Some may feel tired from all the excitement, while others may experience “camp withdrawal”, missing their friends, counselors, and the sense of community that camp brings. You might notice your camper humming camp songs, sharing inside jokes, or counting down the days until next summer. These are all signs of a meaningful experience!

Our staff love hearing how camp continues to make an impact long after our goodbyes. If your camper has a special story, highlight, or moment they can’t stop talking about, we’d love to hear it! Please reach out to the Director of Youth Development and share those memories because camp doesn’t end when the campers leave; it lives on in the stories we tell and the connections we keep.

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