Kids and teens experience the joy of camp during different seasons with our fall, winter and spring camps.
Campers Discover Fun, Who They Are
YMCA Camp Willson encompasses 500 acres of woods, trails, fields and cabins surrounding our beautiful lake. We offer these three-day, two-night seasonal camps for kids ages 6-16.
Raising The BAR For Youth
YMCA Youth Development programs empower youth to reach their full potential by fostering a sense of belonging, realizing and celebrating achievement and cultivating positive relationships. Our Youth Development programs are guided by our YMCA core values and take place in safe and inclusive spaces.
Our programs are intentionally designed to focus on our primary outcomes:
Belonging
Youth are respected and welcomed into a community where they can express their individuality.
Achievement
Youth build new skills, and their accomplishments are recognized.
Relationships
Youth form meaningful connections, promoting well-being and combating social isolation.
Core Values
Youth are guided by our Core Values: Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
Safety
Youth are protected from physical and emotional harm.
Inclusion
Youth receive equal access to opportunities and resources.
Our Staff
Role Models Work Here
Our well-trained, diverse YMCA staff provides your child with an exceptional camp experience. We carefully choose our summer camp staff for their enthusiasm, talent and dedication– many counselors are former campers!
Our lifeguards receive advanced Red Cross training to supervise all waterfront activities. We also train staff in first aid and CPR and policies and procedures specific to camp programs. All staff are subject to reference and background checks.
Cabins
Cozy Weekend Home
We offer a few cabins with bunk beds that accommodate about 12 campers. Our main cabins have restroom facilities nearby, while our back cabins have a restroom and shower.
Dining
Buffet-style Meals
Meals are specially prepared and served as a buffet, plus we do the dishes! Please let us know if you have special dietary needs.
Winter Camp
When Camp’s at Its Coolest!
Kids enjoy a winter twist on our camp activities. We'll warm up inside by the fire after lots of fun in the snow like:
- Giant Swing
- Gaga
- Climbing Wall
Dates | Status | Cost |
| January 18-20, 2025 | Available | $200 |
Spring Camp
Get A Summer Preview
Kids preview summer camp before school is out and enjoy activities like:
- Campfires
- Gaga pit
- Riding our giant swing
- Archery
- Tackling our climbing wall
Dates | Status | Cost |
| April 11-13, 2025 | Available | $200 |
Fall Camp
Spend Spooky Season Here
In addition to the fun activities that Camp Willson offers, we’ll host a costume party, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating! Activities include:
- Boating
- Target Sports
- Challenge Activities
- Arts & crafts: rock painting & tye dye
- Science: water rockets, Lego® robotics
- Nature: animal tracking, survival skills, guided hikes (it’s dark earlier!)
Dates | Status | Cost |
| Coming Soon | Coming Soon | Coming Soon |
"It is easy to make friends. All of the counselors are super nice; the campers have a lot of fun."
— Camp Parent
Financial Assistance & Discounts
Everyone Deserves to Camp
We recognize that families may have differing abilities to pay, so YMCA Camp Willson offers financial assistance thanks to our generous donors.
All campers will have the same experience regardless of what rate they pay. This system allows us to continue offering an incredible camp experience with exceptional staff, activities and facilities while making camp accessible to as many families as possible.
YMCA Member Discount
YMCA of Central Ohio members will receive a $50 weekly discount per child for a weekend of seasonal camp (spring, fall and winter).
Packing List
What to Bring to Camp
We suggest older play clothes and clothes that kids enjoy wearing. Please pack all clothes in a drawstring, duffel or laundry bag. Pack toiletries, swimsuits, towels and shoes in a small backpack or day bag. We recommend older play clothes and clothes that campers enjoy wearing.
