WEST COOK YMCA 2026 ADVENTURE CAMP
Adventure Camp Philosophy:
At Adventure Camp, campers are encouraged to step beyond their comfort zone and into their growth zones. Through hands-on, outdoor games and activities, campers will learn to face challenges with perseverance and confidence, develop leadership skills, foster a
greater sense of curiosity and reinforce the YMCA’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Responsibility, and Respect.
Campers will explore survival skills, gain comfort in natural environments, and engage in peer teaching, all while fostering a “just ask” mindset. This approach empowers campers to shape their own experience, allowing curiosity and discovery to guide each week’s direction.
Adventure Camp Design:
YMCA Adventure Camp design is a 10-week summer program from June 8th through August 14th for campers ages 5 to 13. Campers will be grouped by age into three cohorts to ensure age-appropriate activities and experiences:
· Explorers (Ages 5-7)
· Voyagers (Ages 8-10)
· Expeditioners (Ages 11-13)
Each day begins with a morning meeting where all age groups come together for community building and daily kickoff. Campers then rotate through various learning and activity stations, take on group responsibilities (e.g., lunch prep, clean-up, and camp maintenance), build a sense of ownership and teamwork.
The day concludes with an all-camp closing circle, where we celebrate achievements, recognize individuals who exemplify YMCA values, and reflect on the day before dismissal.
ADVENTURE CAMP LOGISITCS
Location: West Cook YMCA | 255 S Marion St. Oak Park IL, 60302
Dates: June 8th – August 14th (No Program June 19th in honor of Juneteenth)
Ages: 5-13 years old
· Explorers (Ages 5-7)
· Voyagers (Ages 8-10)
· Expeditioners (Ages 11-13)
Day and Time: Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 4:00pm | Before Care: 7:00am – 9:00am | After Care: 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Y Member Cost/week: $250 | Non-Member Cost/Week: $325
Extended Care Cost/Week: $50 (includes before and after care needs)
Non-Refundable Deposit: $25 per camper/week due on January 31st 2026
FAQ
Q: Will lunch be provided?
A: No, campers will need to bring their own nut-free lunch
Q: Will there be swimming?
A: Yes there will be opportunities to swim either at our YMCA location or going to the pool for a field trip. All campers will have the option to take a swim test in order to go to deeper sections of the pool. If campers do not take the swim test they can not be in the deep end of the pool.
