Home / Camps / Day Camp / John Davis

WELCOME TO DAY CAMP AT JOHN A. DAVIS FAMILY YMCA

Your family can count on John A. Davis Family YMCA to ensure your child is having fun in a safe, nurturing environment. The Y offers single-day, weekly and specialty camps to meet the needs of parents and match the interests of our campers. 

Since 1882, our camps have inspired kids with countless opportunities to laugh, lead and make lasting friendships. 

FIND YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE!

camp is calling

SUMMER 2023 DAY CAMP SIGN-UPS

  • Registration is now open!
  • Weekly sessions: June 19 - August 18

REGISTER TODAY

SPRING BREAK 2023

When school is out, the fun is happening at the Y! Our 2023 season:

spring break camps

  • March 27-31 - register now

MEMBERS SAVE ON CAMP!

YMCA members save an average of 15% on camp — one whole summer adds up to a whole lot of savings! To receive the Y member rate for any program, your membership must be active throughout the duration of the registered program session(s), otherwise the non-member  fee will be applied. Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Y member, and join us today! 

YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER DAY CAMP

Summer Day Camp Guide

Learn more about our Summer 2023 day camps! View the digital version of John A. Davis Family YMCA's summer camp guide here or check out the camp descriptions below, and view a list of camps by week here (PDF) and view descriptions below.

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH SIGN-UP

For the best experience when registering for camp, get started by logging in to your My Y account. The Y recently invested in new technology to better serve you, and if you have not logged into your account since November 1, 2022, you must create a new account to purchase programming. Setup is easy. Learn more here. 

SAVE TIME WITH SEARCH CODESpro tip in a sun graphic

When you're ready to fill your cart with a summer's worth of camps, open a tab to our program finder, and log in to your My Y account. Find your camp selections quickly by typing in (or copying/pasting) the SEARCH CODE (e.g. CPSPEC22).

 

TRADITIONAL CAMPS

camp girl

Traditional camps are ultra-spirited, fun-filled camps with weekly themes that guide activities for the week. New experiences, skill building, a sense of community and lasting friendships are all part of traditional day camp experience. When you're ready to register, here's a shortcut to all traditional camps at John A. Davis Family YMCA, or go straight to the program finder and type or copy/paste a search code (e.g., CPTRAD22) into the search bar to zero in on your camps.

❯ ❯ TRADITIONAL CAMP DESCRIPTIONS (CLICK TO EXPAND)

CHALLENGERS

Ages 10-13 | SEARCH CODE: CPCHL22 FIND SESSIONS
Join our Y day camp for a week of fun with all the onsite activities our camp has to offer! Campers will build self-confidence, meet new friends, and create lasting memories through different activities like sports and games, arts and crafts, science experiments and more, all based on the weekly theme and interests of the campers. Day campers will be divided into small groups by age and will participate in activities appropriate to the interests and needs of their group.

CLUB 6/7

Ages 6-7 | SEARCH CODE: CPCL22 FIND SESSIONS
Join our Y day camp for a week of fun with all the onsite activities our camp has to offer! Campers will build self-confidence, meet new friends, and create lasting memories through different activities like sports and games, arts and crafts, science experiments and more, all based on the weekly theme and interests of the campers. Day campers will be divided into small groups by age and will participate in activities appropriate to the interests and needs of their group.

DISCOVERY

Ages 8-9 | SEARCH CODE: CPDSC22 FIND SESSIONS
Join our Y day camp for a week of fun with all the onsite activities our camp has to offer! Campers will build self-confidence, meet new friends, and create lasting memories through different activities like sports and games, arts and crafts, science experiments and more, all based on the weekly theme and interests of the campers. Day campers will be divided into small groups by age and will participate in activities appropriate to the interests and needs of their group.

HIGH FIVES

Age 5 | SEARCH CODE: CPHF22 FIND SESSIONS
High Fives is a perfect fit for our younger campers. With staff supervision at low ratios, campers will spend their action-packed days doing arts and crafts, science projects, playing games and learning new skills.

LIT/CIT TRAINING

Ages 13-17 | SEARCH CODE: CPLCITT22 FIND SESSIONS
The LIT/CIT program is designed for older campers to obtain the skills they need to become a Camp Leader. Teens will learn what it takes to work with campers while gaining real world and life experience through communication skills, management techniques, and building their self-confidence. LIT/CIT’s will also receive CPR and First Aid training. The LIT/CIT program is required each year for all participants regardless of past experience in the program.

LIT/CIT FIELDWORK

Ages 13-15 | SEARCH CODE: CPLITF22 FIND SESSIONS
LIT/CIT Fieldwork is an opportunity for teens who have successfully completed our training course to use their leadership skills in the field of camp and enjoy the rewards of working with the YMCA’s incredible staff. Teens will experience various camp programs, assist in the daily operations of camp, and receive valuable on-the-job experience that will help build a strong foundation for either a recreational or child care career. Teens will be placed into age-appropriate camps prior to the start of the fieldwork week. Join our team in making a difference in the lives of many young campers this summer while earning school-required or volunteer service hours!

REGISTER

 

SPECIALTY CAMPS

Does your child have a specific interest or hobby? Looking for a camp that specializes in sports or STEM? Browse through the specialty camps section for camps that combine the traditional fun of YMCA day camps with the more specialized skills by providers or YMCA experts. When you're ready to register, here's a shortcut to all specialty camps at John A. Davis Family YMCA, or go straight to the program finder and type or copy/paste a search code (e.g., CPSPEC22) into the search bar to zero in on your camps.

❯ ❯ SPECIALTY CAMP DESCRIPTIONS (CLICK TO EXPAND)

Animal Grossology

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPANG22 FIND SESSIONS
Do you love animals? Then you will love this camp! Campers will learn cool facts about their favorite animals, and the areas in which said animals live, play cool animal games, make cool animal crafts and even receive the occasional visit from some of our amazing animal friends. We look forward to teaching campers to love and appreciate the diverse ecosystems that comprise our planet and the animal friends that inhabit them.

Archery

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPARCH22 FIND SESSIONS
Spend the week with us and you’re guaranteed to hit a bullseye! Campers will spend about two hours a day with experienced instructors learning about safety, parts of the bow and how to shoot. All experience levels welcome; all necessary equipment is provided.

Basketball

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPBSK22 FIND SESSIONS
Your camper could be the next big NBA star with this fundamental sports week. Dailay activities include instruction in dribbling, passing, shooting, and positioning. With the YMCA, basketball camp is for young athletes looking for a strong summer building fundamental skills.

Big Messy Art

Ages 7-12 |SEARCH CODE: CPBMA22 FIND SESSIONS
Let your campers immerse themselves from head to toe in art projects including pendulum painting, splat painting and art installations. All the while, they will learn about the artists behind these techniques — some of whom are even scientists. We mix in a little circuitry as well, because art isn’t just about painting.

BMX

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPBMX22 FIND SESSIONS
Learn from BMX world champions at Dale Holmes Racing. They supply all the bikes, equipment and instruction for your budding BMX racing pro! This high-demand camp is for beginners and experts alike. Please note: Long pants and long-sleeved shirts, as well as closed toe shoes are required for riding, but campers may bring shorts for after riding time at camp.

Broadway Mashup

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPBRDM22 FIND SESSIONS
Curtains up, it’s showtime! Campers will learn a variety of songs from their favorite movies and musicals and turn them into one big mash-up! Mark your calendars for Friday and join us for an unforgettable performance.

Bug Out

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPBO22 FIND SESSIONS
Each day campers will spend two hours being introduced to new bugs and insects, as well as get hands on experiences with them. Curious campers will learn new facts about each of the bugs and can use that knowledge in camp games and activities. This creepy crawly camp is designed to teach campers about the mysterious world of bugs and insects, as well as give them an up close and personal experience.

Ceramics

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPCER22 FIND SESSIONS
For campers that love to make clean and beautiful works of art and love getting their hands dirty doing it, we present the perfect way to scratch that artistic itch: our camper-tested and camper approved ceramics camp! This camp has been a source of good, not-so-clean fun for years and has delighted many campers as they express themselves through many variations of 3-dimensional art that we offer during the week.

Cooking Top Chef

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPCKTC22 FIND SESSIONS
Our young culinary artists will be loaded with helpful tips and tricks after spending a week with our talented YMCA chefs. Each day, your sous chef will learn to create delicious, tasty treats combining traditional favorites with out-of-the-box creative concoctions. Campers will create their own recipe books and have multiple take-away projects and treats that they can enjoy at home.

Dance

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPDNC22 FIND SESSIONS
Five, six, seven, eight, dance camp is really great! Campers of all skill levels are welcome at our high-energy dance camp, where your dancer will learn different styles of dance including hip-hop dance, contemporary and jazz. There will be a performance for family and friends at the end of the week.

Humane Helpers

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPHMH22 FIND SESSIONS
This is the perfect camp for children who enjoy learning about and interacting with animals from around the world! The San Diego Humane Society’s trained educational staff will have an assortment of animals for your camper to hold, play with and feed. Some of the animals are familiar, such as puppies, kittens and bunnies, but others are more exotic such as snakes, lizards and insects.

Ice Skating

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPIS22 FIND SESSIONS
This camp is designed to be a fun, educational experience for beginner and intermediate ice skaters. Traveling to San Diego Ice Arena, campers will get 30 minutes of instructional lessons every day.Lessons are followed by a two-hour public session where they will skate to the latest tunes. Parents are invited to a basic skills show on Friday. Only skates are provided; campers may bring their own skates and gloves. Please note: Campers must bring socks each day. If you don’t have a helmet, one will be provided.

Jr. Keeper

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPJK22 FIND SESSIONS
The perfect camp for budding biologists! We’ll track wildlife on the marsh, explore life under the microscope, feed sharks and meet sea turtles up-close. We’ll even see what it takes to care for eagles, owls and endangered Ridgway’s rails. Being a biologist has never been more fun!

Jr. Lifeguard

Ages 10-14 | SEARCH CODE: CPJRL22 FIND SESSIONS
In this interactive camp, campers will have the opportunity to learn from professional lifeguards. Students will gain a wide variety of skills and knowledge including water-rescue techniques, the importance of physical fitness and other topics related to lifeguarding. This camp creates a valuable experience that builds self-confidence and skills for life.

Jr. Veterinarian

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPJRVET22 FIND SESSIONS
This camp is perfect for the animal lover. Campers will meet, greet and interact with an array of domesticated animals, and have the opportunity to learn and experience basic animal care.

Karate Kid

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPKRTK22 FIND SESSIONS
Every great journey begins with one step. Watch your Karate Kid will hone in on skills in the martial arts. Campers will learn traditional karate techniques, in addition to learning how to defend themselves.

LEGO Mindstorm Robotics

Ages 8-13 | SEARCH CODE: CPLGMR22 FIND SESSIONS
Explore the world-class robotics challenge. Students will build a cutting-edge EV3 robot and control its movements with motors and sensors. Get your robot to hit a home run by programming it to run all four bases. Students will gain the 4Cs skills: communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity to become robotic engineers.

LEGO WeDo Robotics

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPLGWDR22 FIND SESSIONS
Explore the world of robotics with the LEGO WeDo system! Learn about physics concepts like friction, and explore gear ratios, energy sources and more! Build a Lunar Rover or a helicopter, all while learning about different sensors. Once you finish building your project, learn block coding to make your robot come to life!

Makin’ a Wave in STEM

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPMWS22 FIND SESSIONS
It’s time to get geared up and explore the world of marine biology and oceanography. This camp is designed to teach campers all about marine conservation, aquatic animals and their place in the ecosystem. Campers will have the opportunity to create innovative contraptions that help us restore and protect native species and spaces.

Muggles are Magic

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPMM22 FIND SESSIONS
Welcome to the magical world of Hogwarts! In this camp, inspired by Harry Potter, campers will be sorted into their houses and learn spells and potions. They will even make and eat fun magical treats! The fun doesn't stop there-our young wizards will also learn about magic wands and participate in their own Quidditch tournament. No need to worry about your camper having fun here because our staff will make sure all the mischief is managed.

Munchin’ on STEM

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPMOS22 FIND SESSIONS
This innovative camp will combine cooking and science to create one power-packed experience. Campers will create edible structures, design edible cars and learn about multiple scientific processes. Munchin' on STEM is a fun and delicious way to introduce your camper to the world of science!

Pokémon

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPPKM22 FIND SESSIONS
After a fun-filled week at this camp, your campers will be saying, “Pikachu, I choose you!” Children will learn all there is to know about Pokémon, including the card game. This is the perfect camp for your Pokémon trainers to master their skills. Please note: Card trading will be allowed in this camp; however, we encourage you to keep super special cards at home.

Radical Reptiles & Friends

Age 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPRRF22 FIND SESSIONS
Campers will be introduced to a menagerie of live animals including snakes, frogs, tortoises, turtles, lizards, bugs and other creepy crawlies. As campers explore the smaller critters of the animal kingdom, they will have a unique, hands-on experience enhanced by art, games and various projects related to these animals. Nature walks and “bug hunts” are included in this camp.

SeaWorld

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPSWLD22 FIND SESSIONS
Visit SeaWorld free for the rest of the calendar year if you sign up for one of our most popular camps! Animal enthusiasts have a chance to see virtually all the aquatic wildlife and exciting shows that SeaWorld has to offer, including dolphins, walruses, sharks and sting rays. Find out how these animals survive in their watery habitats and how humans impact those habitats. If you love to learn about marine life, then this camp is sure to make a splash! Please note: A SeaWorld Fun Card is included with the camp at the end of the week.

Slime Factory

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPSF22 FIND SESSIONS
Slime factory is the scientific study of all that’s NOT allowed at the dinner table. Campers will spend part of their day getting their hands dirty by using different ingredients such as glue, glitter, starch and paint to make the thickest, ooey-gooiest slime around! You won’t want to miss this one - it’s slime time!

Soccer

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPSC22 FIND SESSIONS
Soccer fans will get a kick out of this camp! The YMCA will provide instruction featuring daily clinics, scrimmages and tournament play. Drills will focus on dribbling, passing, shooting and position techniques.

Splash

Ages 6-8 | SEARCH CODE: CPSPLSH22 FIND SESSIONS
Splash camp will focus on swim instruction for the beginner to intermediate swimmer. Campers will be taught how to perform basic strokes and gain confidence in the water. Campers will receive one 35-minute swimming lesson and one hour of free swim each day combined with active games, crafts and other fun camp activities.

Star Wars

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPSW22 FIND SESSIONS
Our campers will have an out of world experience as they learn how to become a Jedi Master! They will attend Jedi Training every day, where they will use the force to sharpen their agility, strength and wisdom. They will also learn how to control their light sabers in a fun and safe environment. Do you have what it takes to become a Master Jedi? Come find out in our amazing force-filled camp!

STEM Out of this World

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPSTMOW22 FIND SESSIONS
Space is the place for this exciting STEM-based camp that focuses on planets and the world above. Campers will participate in hands-on activities that allow them to design, build, model, launch and create.

Zoo Camp

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPZOO22 FIND SESSIONS
Spend a day on a bus tour to get an overview of the entire zoo and see some of the phenomenal flora and fauna at one of the world’s largest botanical gardens. If you love monkeying around, this expedition is for you. Don’t forget your walking shoes!

REGISTER

 

 

About Us

Our Branch

JOHN A. DAVIS FAMILY YMCA
Address: 8881 Dallas St, La Mesa, CA 91942
Phone: (858) 484-8788 or (858) 514-4411
 

Camp Locations and Hours of Operation

John A. Davis Family YMCA
Address: 8881 Dallas St, La Mesa, CA 91942
Camp Hours:Full-day: 8:00am-5:00pm
Drop-off: 8:00-9:00 am
Pick-up: 3:00-5:00pm 

Directors and Supervisors

CAMP DIRECTOR
Marissa Armas
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (619) 464-9622

About Our Staff

The John A. Davis Family YMCA takes pride in hiring the best people to fill our camp staff. Each camp leader was hand-selected through an extensive hiring process to ensure the safest environment for everyone. Staff training includes CPR and First Aid certification, transportation safety, behavior management and bully prevention, child protection and abuse prevention, field trip and off-site safety procedures, risk management/prevention and more.

PAYING FOR CAMP

At the time of registration, you may choose to:

  • Pay in full (includes a $50 non-refundable deposit)
  • Place a $50 non-refundable deposit at the time of registration. Balances will be due the Monday prior to the first day of camp.
  • An active membership is required at the time of the program start date to receive the member pricing discount.
  • Financial assistance is available through the Y's ACCESS scholarship program.

Interest Lists

When a day camp session is full, you may add your child to a waitlist enrollment — choose "Join Waitlist" during the registration process when signing up online. We’ll provide an update via email that lists all day camps with open availability. Registration is first come, first served. We recommend that families check the website often, as other spaces may become available prior to email communications going out.

Here's what our parents tell us:

"Thanks to YMCA  for making this camp possible. My child was lonely at home and I was scared to send him to the camp. I decided to trust your organization. Overall my son had a lot of fun and came home with exciting stories about his camp experiences."

REQUIRED FORMS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DOCUMENTS

Day Camp Parent Manual

Check out our Day Camp Parent Manual for easy reference on what to expect and how to best prepare your camper for day camp this summer.

UPDATED SAFETY GUIDELINES:

Your family's safety is our top priority. We have implemented safety protocols that follow state and local guidelines. It's our priority to help your children enjoy a safe and fun program that builds lasting friendships.

Medical Release Form - Required

In order to register, all campers must have a current medical release form updated and submitted to the YMCA after January 2023. Medical release forms can be updated through your My Y account in our Community Portal.

Vendor Waivers

Some specialty camps, particularly those that travel to an off-site location, require an additional vendor waiver. Camps that require a waiver to be completed will be contacted and provided the waiver before the start of camp.

Camp Scholarships

Financial assistance is available to families who qualify. Applications are available at the service desk and online. Assistance is based on verified income and completed applications.

Apply for a Program Scholarship

More Policies

For more information about YMCA Day Camp policies, expectations and helpful information, visit our Day Camp Policy page.

Giving Back

For every session of camp, the Y provides program scholarships for families seeking financial assistance. This is made possible through the generosity of our community. If you wish to help a child go to camp, please see our Camp Director for information.

Feedback

We love to hear from our campers and parents! Camp leadership teams use your feedback to make positive changes to our program. Please feel free to contact Melissa Overland-McKay at [email protected], with any questions, comments or concerns!