Resident Camp is Back for 2020!

Kimball Camp YMCA resident camp is back for Summer 2020!  The staff has been preparing and training for new safety measures and health standards.  Since 1938 Kimball Camp YMCA has provided youth with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime.  Resident camp will begin on July 5th with Adventure Camp, New Adventure Camp and Horse Camp!

Kimball Camp’s highly dedicated, enthusiastic, and caring staff not only ensure that campers have a fun and safe camping experience, but they also strive to build character, make a difference, and change the lives of each and every camper that comes through the gate.

Executive Director, Harold Campbell said that he asks campers, “Do you like to make S’mores by the campfire? Conquer Goliath? Swim like fish in a lake? Play on an amazing water trampoline?  Explore the outdoors?  Of course they all say, ‘Yes!’”  He continued by saying, “then Kimball Camp YMCA summer resident camp is for you! At camp, you’ll learn new skills and experience new adventures. You’ll also make new friends and create memories that will last a lifetime.”  He mentioned that campers can come by themselves or they can bring their best friend, even if he or she hasn’t been to camp before.

Kimball Camp YMCA adheres to the philosophy that the resident camp setting offers a 24-hour living

experience that provides opportunities for campers and staff to develop more fully as individuals.  Campers attend chapel while at camp because the Kimball Camp YMCA staff  believe that campers should have a growth experience that involves as acceptance of social responsibility, a sense of moral values, and an awareness of spiritual values.

Whether you are looking for individual, small group, or camp-wide fun, we definitely have something for you! Campers are grouped according to age and gender. They stay in cabins with up other campers and a counselor. Friendships grow as they live, share meals, laugh, and play together during a full week of fun! Campers are given the opportunity to participate in many activities like cheer and dance, horseback riding, swimming, archery, canoeing, the high ropes course, and more.

Kimball Camp YMCA has taken steps to ensure the safety of campers.  “Unusual conditions during a pandemic means learning new operational procedures,” said Devlin McNeil, the Head Counselor. “Training for the staff has included updated cleaning procedures, social distancing practices, and then, of course, ways to teach and help the children understand the new ‘norm’ that will be in existence for a while,” he said.  He continued by saying, “We’re relying on the guidance of the community health experts and referencing all materials available to truly care for the youth we aim to serve.”

Campbell, who is in his 26^th year as the Executive Director at Kimball Camp, said that, “Campers will play outside on the playground, participate in arts and crafts, learn Bible verses and songs, and increase their knowledge and awareness as they learn through fun new activities in the YMCA’s outdoor education program.

Both the children and staff members will be happy to get back to Kimball Camp, said Campbell. “We have staff that are extremely excited about running the fun and educational programs with our kids while also prioritizing safety.”  Campbell mentioned that families may still sell candy bars to help pay their way to camp this summer or apply for a scholarship provided by local individuals who believe that supporting the youth of our community is a priority.  Register your child today at www.kimballcamp.com or call 5172832168.