First Camp: A Gentle First Step Into the Magic of Overnight Camp

First Camp is the perfect way for first-time campers to explore the excitement of day camp and enjoy a one-night sleepover in our cozy, air-conditioned cabins.

girls lighting candles for night meeting

Try Camp with Confidence—One Overnight, Tons of Fun at First Camp

From crafts and canoeing to campfires and climbing walls, First Camp builds confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories—all in just five unforgettable days.

2025 Session Dates & Availability:

 
Session 1 (June 1st-6th)Registration Open
Session 2 (June 8th-13th)Registration Open
Session 3 (June 15th-20th)Registration Open
Session 4 (June 22nd-27th)Registration Open
Session 5 (June 29th-4th)Registration Open
Session 6 (July 6th-11th)Registration Open
Session 7 (July 13th-18th)Registration Open
Session 8 (July 20th-25th)Registration Open
Session 9 (July 27th-August 4th)Registration Open
Tuition$450/week

Ready to start your adventure at Camp Kern?

Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for the best summer ever. Camp Kern is waiting – are you in?

Register Now!
kids at camp in nature

Every child deserves a chance to experience camp.

We offer financial assistance to help make Camp Kern accessible for all families. Visit our Financial Assistance page to learn more — we’re here to help.

Learn More!

Your Camper’s Week at a Glance: What to Expect at Camp Kern

Discover what your child can expect at YMCA Camp Kern’s Traditional Camp! From cabins to campfires, explore the daily routine, activities, and supportive environment that make our overnight camp unforgettable.

7:30 AM – Wake-Up & Cabin Clean-Up
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

Have questions? We’ve got you covered.

We know sending your child to camp is a big decision, and we’re here to help every step of the way. From safety and staff to packing lists and daily schedules, our FAQ page has the answers you need to feel confident and informed.

Check Our Our Parent Resources!