Celebrate Your Big Day in Nature’s Perfect Setting
Dreaming of a rustic wedding in the woods or a beautiful indoor reception with natural charm? At YMCA Camp Kern, we offer a wedding experience that’s as memorable as it is meaningful.
Say “I Do” at Camp Kern
Whether you’re envisioning a quiet forest ceremony or a joyful gathering with 200+ loved ones, our scenic venues and flexible setup make Camp Kern a one-of-a-kind place to start your forever.
Outdoor Chapel Ceremony
Nestled in the woods, our outdoor chapel creates a peaceful, intimate setting for your wedding vows. Guests enjoy amphitheater-style bench seating facing a charming stone stage, all shaded under a forest canopy.
Indoor Reception at Schiewetz Assembly Hall
Celebrate your new beginning in the Carl B. Kern Auditorium, a warm and elegant space that comfortably seats up to 220 guests at round tables. The hall also includes four private rooms ideal for wedding party prep or quiet moments before the walk down the aisle.
What’s Included in Your Wedding Rental?
All-Day Rental: 8:00 AM – Midnight access on your wedding day
Evening Access Before: Arrive after 5:00 PM the night before for setup or rehearsal
No Preferred Vendor List: Bring your own caterer, decorator, DJ, or planner
Prep Kitchen: Includes warmer, refrigerator, and beverage cooler
Tables & Chairs: 5’ round tables and banquet chairs (setup not included)
Audio/Visual: Projector and wireless microphones included
To receive pricing for the Schiewetz Assembly Hall, and to add our Outdoor Chapel to your package, please contact our Group Rentals & Team Building team directly using the submission form below.
Accommodations
Enjoy year-round, village-style lodging with over 500 beds, offering comfort, community, and convenience for your entire group.
Meeting Spaces
From rustic lodges to modern halls, our flexible meeting spaces are perfect for workshops, team-building, and group sessions.
Building Stronger Bonds: What to Expect at Your Camp Kern Event
Learn everything you need to know to plan for your team's special event at YMCA Camp Kern.
Please check in with your Camp Host at the Boda Welcome Center unless other arrangements have been made. Your host will walk you through your schedule, assist at meals, and be available via cell for the duration of your stay.
Yes. Camp Kern is a private facility open only to registered guests. All group members must wear a wristband for safety and security. Wristbands are provided to the group leader at check-in and must be returned if unused, as your group will be invoiced for those used.
Yes—with advance planning. Activities must be included in your signed contract and scheduled at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Many activities have age or time restrictions.
Yes. A signed waiver is required for all participants joining in Camp Kern-led activities.
It means participants decide how much they want to engage in high adventure activities. For teambuilding, please return the Teambuilding Questionnaire at least 2 weeks before arrival.
No—please bring your own bedding and towels.
Guests must:
Remove personal belongings
Reset tables/chairs
Dispose of trash
Sweep cabins & flip mattresses
Set thermostats, turn off lights & A/C
Close all doors and windows
Note: A cleaning fee will apply if cabins are not left in proper condition.
Family-style: Singerman Lodge & Elk Lodge
Buffet-style: Schiewetz Assembly Hall
Meals are served promptly at 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 5:30 PM, unless stated otherwise in your contract.
Yes! Outside food and catering are allowed. Alcohol is only permitted at Schiewetz Assembly Hall.
Yes. All food provided is nut-free, and guests are asked not to bring any nuts onsite. For other questions about food allergies, Contact our Food Service Director at 513-932-3756 ext. 1516 or Conferencing Team at ext. 1526.
Camp Kern activities continue rain or shine. Be sure to dress appropriately. In severe weather, we may delay or cancel activities and offer refunds if needed.
Yes, but it may be far from some activity areas. We highly recommend bringing reusable water bottles.
Yes—in designated fire rings or fireplaces only. Firewood is usually available but not guaranteed, especially in wet weather or busy seasons. Bring your own kindling and matches just in case.
Yes! Let us know your A/V needs at least 2 weeks before arrival and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Yes! Schedule a time to visit the Canteen, where guests can purchase gear. We accept cash, credit (Visa, Mastercard, Discover), and checks.
A signed contract and a 30% deposit are required to hold your reservation. Final billing is based on your guaranteed minimum or actual number of participants—whichever is greater.
Yes. Wi-Fi access is available at Schiewetz Assembly Hall and Singerman Lodge.
Reserve Your Spot for Weddings at Camp Kern!
Ready to plan your perfect day? Contact our Group Rentals & Team Building team to customize your group's experience and reserve your dates today.