The Perfect Camp Experience for First-Time Campers
Our Day and Semi-Residential Camps are designed for younger campers—usually ages 5 to 10—who are ready to explore the outdoors, build friendships, and develop confidence, all while staying close to home.
Ranch Day Camp (Ages 8-13)
A ranch-focused day camp for novice and experienced riders alike. Get in the saddle, hit the trail, and sharpen your child's skills as a budding equestrian.
Sunrise Day Camp (Ages 5-10)
Day Camp: Monday - Friday
A playful Monday–Friday day camp full of swimming, arts & crafts, nature exploration, and character-building activities to introduce young campers to the magic of outdoor fun.
Taste of Kern (TOK) (Ages 7-9)
Partial-Week Residential/Overnight Camp: Sunday - Tuesday or Wednesday - Friday
A multi-day overnight experience that packs canoeing, climbing, arts, and new friendships into a shorter stay—perfect for easing into traditional camp life
Camp Blaze (Ages 7-13)
Day Camp: Monday-Friday
A full-week Monday–Friday day camp combining the best of classic summer fun—team games, nature adventures, skill building, and more—on Camp Kern’s 485‑acre property.
Boots & Bits (Ages 6-10)
Day Camp: Monday-Friday
An unforgettable week filled with horseback riding, outdoor exploration, and classic camp fun. Guided by trained staff, campers build confidence in the saddle, make new friends, and connect with nature.
Your Camper’s Week at a Glance: What to Expect at Camp Kern
Discover what your child can expect at YMCA Camp Kern’s Day Camp! From cabins to campfires, explore the daily routine, activities, and supportive environment that make our overnight camp unforgettable.
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Flag Raising & Morning Assembly
9:30 AM – Activity Block 1 (Archery, Canoeing, Arts & Crafts, etc.)
10:45 AM – Activity Block 2 (Climbing Wall, Drama, Nature Hike, etc.)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest Hour
2:00 PM – Activity Block 3 (Swimming, Gaga Ball, Kayaking, etc.)
3:15 PM – Activity Block 4 (Team Building Games, Sports, Zipline, etc.)
4:30 PM – Free Time / Canteen
5:30 PM – Dinner
6:30 PM – Evening Program (All-Camp Game, Talent Show, Campfire)
8:30 PM – Cabin Time & Reflections
9:00 PM – Lights Out (younger campers)
10:00 PM – Lights Out (older campers)
Outdoor Adventure & Nature
Nature Hikes
Wilderness Skills (fire building, shelter making)
Creek Exploration
Environmental Education
Animal Encounters (camp farm animals)
Bug Hunts
Star Gazing & Astronomy
Water Fun
Canoeing
Kayaking
Swimming in the Pool
Lake Play (stand-up paddleboards, splash games)
Water Olympics
Challenge & Ropes
Climbing Wall
High Ropes Course
Zip Line
Team-Building Low Ropes
Trust Falls & Group Challenges
Creative Arts
Arts & Crafts
Tie-Dye
Nature Art
Face Painting
Friendship Bracelets
Camp Journaling
Sports & Games
Archery
Gaga Ball
Basketball
Soccer
Ultimate Frisbee
Volleyball
Camp-Wide Capture the Flag
Counselor Hunt
Scavenger Hunts
Drama & Performance
Skit Night
Improv Games
Talent Shows
Lip Sync Battles
Campfire Songs & Storytelling
Evening & All-Camp Programs
Opening & Closing Campfires
Cabin Challenge Nights
Themed Dance Parties
All-Camp Games
Glow Night
Night Hikes
S’mores & Reflections
Sunday – Welcome Campfire
Kick off the week with songs, s’mores, and getting to know your cabin.
Monday – Cabin Challenge Night
Team up with your bunkmates for silly games and friendly competition.
Tuesday – All-Camp Game
The whole camp joins in for favorites like Counselor Hunt or Capture the Flag.
Wednesday – Talent Show
Campers shine on stage with skits, songs, dances, and more.
Thursday – Camp Dance or Theme Party
Dress up, dance it out, and celebrate the week together.
Friday – Closing Campfire
End the week with songs, stories, recognition, and meaningful goodbyes.
Breakfast
Scrambled eggs
Pancakes with syrup
Turkey sausage
Fresh fruit
Cereal & milk
Water & 100% juice
Lunch
Grilled cheese or deli sandwich
Tomato soup
Veggie sticks with ranch
Apple slices
Cookie
Water or lemonade
Dinner
BBQ chicken
Mac & cheese
Steamed broccoli
Dinner roll
Salad bar
Water or fruit punch
Snack
Trail mix
Granola bar
Frozen fruit pops
Goldfish crackers
Water jugs available all day
Smiles, Adventures, and Unforgettable Moments
We’ve captured the best moments: big smiles, new friendships, and exciting adventures in the great outdoors. Whether it’s their first canoe ride or the final campfire of the week, every picture tells a story.
