From Apprentice to Ranger—Your Mission Begins Now.
At Ranger’s Apprentice Camp, campers begin their journey as apprentices and train to become members of the Ranger Corps.
Throughout the week, they will practice the skills needed to move with confidence, think strategically, and work together as a team.
Campers receive a green cloak and take part in activities inspired by the world of the series, including archery, horseback riding activities, tracking, stealth missions, shelter building, climbing, outdoor cooking, and more. Each activity is woven into the camp storyline, making the week feel like one connected adventure.
As campers complete challenges and prove their skills, they work toward earning their Bronze Oak Leaf, a symbol of joining the Ranger Corps. Campers who continue their Ranger training in an advanced program may later work toward the Silver Oak Leaf.
A Creative Outdoor Camp for Adventurous Campers
Ranger’s Apprentice Summer Camp is a great fit for creative and outdoorsy campers who enjoy fantasy stories, wilderness skills, and imaginative play. This camp includes a good amount of walking as campers travel throughout YMCA Camp Kern for missions, activities, and challenges, so it is best for campers who are ready for an active week outdoors.
Campers stay in Camp Kern’s rustic covered wagons, adding to the immersive feel of the experience. These unique overnight spaces help campers feel like they are truly part of the Ranger world while giving them the chance to build friendships and create lasting camp memories.
What Campers Can Expect
Ranger’s Apprentice Summer Camp includes archery, horseback riding activities, stealth missions, tracking, shelter building, climbing, outdoor cooking, team challenges, and imaginative storytelling. Campers will learn outdoor skills, strengthen their confidence, and work together as they train to become Rangers.
For campers who love the Ranger’s Apprentice series, outdoor adventure, fantasy worlds, and hands-on camp experiences, this overnight summer camp offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to train in the shadows and rise as a Ranger.
2026 Session Dates & Availability:
Ranger's Apprentice programs will be listed under "Horse Camps" on the Camper Application. | |
| Session 4 (June 21st-26th) | Registration Open Girls spots sold out - waitlist available |
Session 6 (July 5th-10th) Advanced Rangers (Previous Ranger Camp experience recommended) | Registration Open |
| Session 8 (July 19th-24th) | Registration Open |
| Tuition | $920/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?
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.
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.
9:00 AM – Morning Assembly
9:30 AM – Activity 1 (Archery, Canoeing, Arts & Crafts, etc.)
10:45 AM – Activity 2 (Mini mine shaft, pete's tower, gaga ball, etc.)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Swimming
5:00 PM – Check-Out
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 – Village Games
Start your week off with friendly competition amongst the other campers in your village.
Tuesday – Camp Out/Cook Out Night
Sleep under the stars after a night of fire-cooked food, stories, and classic camp fun with your cabin.
Wednesday – Big Game
Team up with your cabin mates solve the mystery and save Camp Kern from the villain of the week!
Thursday – Closing Campfire & Vespers
End the week with songs, stories, recognition, reflection ,and meaningful goodbyes.
Friday – Underseige, Camp Dance & Talent Show
Finish your week with an epic tag game, dancing, and memories to last forever.
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