WELCOME TO DAY CAMP AT MISSION VALLEY YMCA

Your family can count on Mission Valley 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

Weekly sessions: June 19 - August 18

REGISTER TODAY

Register Online — We have invested in new technology, and signing up online is the best way to secure your top picks. Make sure your new account is ready to register.
Register in Person — Directions Here
Register by Phone — (619) 298-3576
View the digital version of our branch camp guide here

MEMBERS SAVE ON CAMP!

sun 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!

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH SIGN-UP

Log in to your My Y account. If you haven’t logged in since November 2022, you must create a new My Y account.
Setup is easy. Learn more here

YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER DAY CAMP

Learn more about our Summer 2023 day camps! View the digital version of Mission Valley 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.

SAVE TIME WITH SEARCH CODES

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. CPSPEC20).

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 Mission Valley YMCA, or go straight to the program finder and type or copy/paste a search code (e.g., CPTRAD20) into the search bar to zero in on your camps.

❯ ❯ TRADITIONAL CAMP DESCRIPTIONS (CLICK TO EXPAND)

CHALLENGERS

Ages 10-13 | SEARCH CODE: CPCHL20 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: CPHF20 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.

CLUB 6/7

Ages 6-7 | SEARCH CODE: CPCL20 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: CPDSC20 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.

LIT/CIT TRAINING

Ages 13-16 | SEARCH CODE: CPLCITT20 FIND SESSIONS
he 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 and gain real world work 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 FIELDWORK

Ages 13-16 | SEARCH CODE: CPLITF20 FIND SESSIONS
LIT 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!

CIT FIELDWORK

Ages 16-17 | SEARCH CODE: CPCIT20 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 team. 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!

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 Mission Valley YMCA, or go straight to the program finder and type or copy/paste a search code (e.g., CPSPEC20) into the search bar to zero in on your camps.

❯ ❯ SPECIALTY CAMP DESCRIPTIONS (CLICK TO EXPAND)

Archery

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPARCH20 FIND SESSIONS
Come let your creativity flow in this DIY and craft-filled camp! Campers will spend the week exploring various crafty projects from scrapbooking and jewelry making to knitting and more! Campers will take home all their wonderful creations and amaze people with their DIY skills.

Basketball

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPBSK20 FIND SESSIONS
Your camper could be the next big NBA star with this fundamental sports week. Daily 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: CPBMA20 FIND SESSIONS
Let your campers immerse themselves from head to toe in art projects using unique painting techniques, creative art creations and getting their hands messy. Campers will learn about the artists behind these techniques - some of whom are even scientists.

Debate Team

Ages 13-15 | SEARCH CODE: CPDBT20 FIND SESSIONS
Debate Team teaches campers how to properly form an argument and defend their opinion on a topic. By providing a center for debate, this camp promotes unity, positive dialogue, and conversation for its campers as well as valuable critical thinking skills. Campers will get to work together during team games, open debate, team posters and more.

DIY Camp

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPDIY20 FIND SESSIONS
In this camp the method of getting things done is by doing it yourself. Campers will be building, modifying, or repairing things without the direct aid of professionals. Days will be spent creating succulent arrangements, polishing rocks, doing string art and much more. If you are interested in exploring your creativity this camp is definitely for you.

First LEGO League

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPFLGL20 FIND SESSIONS
First LEGO League introduces science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to children through fun, exciting hands-on learning. Campers will gain real-world problem solving experience through a guided, global robotics program, helping today's students and teachers build a better future together.

Funster Bounce House

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFBH20 FIND SESSIONS
Let your little funster bounce their way into fun by experiencing the joy of different bouncers each day! From bouncy castles, massive slides and inflatable obstacle courses this is going to be the best camp ever!

Funster Bugs and Slugs

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFBS20 FIND SESSIONS
We know young children love the slimy, icky and gooey. This being so, they will enjoy bugs and slugs camp. This week-long camp gives kids the opportunity to do slimy experiments that can resemble the slimy feel of a slug trail. It also gives them the opportunity to interact with actual bugs and learn about the positive impact certain types of bugs have in our environment. Campers will also learn how to take care of these little creatures so you can reap the full benefits of what they do, all while having a whole lot of fun.

Funster Chefs

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFCHF20 FIND SESSIONS
These specialty camps are designed just for our campers who are ages 5 to 6 (grades K-1). Campers will experience the perfect introduction to cooking and will learn how to mix, spread and create fun snacks and starters! They will participate in taste testing and have the opportunity to create their own kid-friendly snack book.

Funster Chem Lab

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFCHML20 FIND SESSIONS
Chem Lab 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 experimenting in the lab doing different experiments such as, Elephant Toothpaste, Erupting Volcanos, Ghost Eggs and much more.

Funster Dance

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFDNC20 FIND SESSIONS
These specialty camps are designed just for our campers who are ages 5 to 6 (grades K-1). Funster dance is a great physical and expressive outlet for young campers. Campers will learn how to march and move to rhythms and follow a dance routine. The dancers will end the week with a final performance to showcase their talents.

Funster Disney

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFDSN20 FIND SESSIONS
Welcome to the most magical place at camp! This camp is perfect for all Disney, Marvel and Star Wars enthusiasts. Campers will spend the week playing games, making art and cooking recipes from all the best Disney movies-classic to current!

Funster LEGO Builders

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFLGB20 FIND SESSIONS
This intense LEGO building camp is for the extreme LEGO camper. Campers will learn how to craft, build and construct different LEGO structures through exciting games and instruction. Campers will also have the opportunity to use their imagination to create their own structures and masterpieces.

Funster Sports

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFSP20 FIND SESSIONS
These specialty camps are designed just for our campers who are ages 5 to 6 (grades K-1). YMCA youth sports coaches will guide your little athletes in a variety of amazing sports clinics ranging from soccer to basketball that will improve hand-eye coordination, balance and motor skills. Campers will also enjoy traditional camp activities such as swimming, group games and arts and crafts.

Funster Zookeeper

Ages 5-6 | SEARCH CODE: CPFZK20 FIND SESSIONS
Calling all our funster animal lovers! If you love to learn about animals and care for them, this camp is just for you. Campers will get up close and personal with the animal kingdom and will get hands on experience learning from our Animal Advocates. Get ready for a ROARing good time in zookeeper camp!

Gaga Ball

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPGGB20 FIND SESSIONS
Dodge, strike, run and jump and be the last one standing in Gaga Madness! Campers will enjoy extra playing time, specialized gaga games and learn new strategies. If you love gaga, this camp is for you!

Harry Potter Potions

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPHPP20 FIND SESSIONS
Welcome to the magical world of Hogwarts! In this camp, inspired by Harry Potter, campers will learn the correct way to brew potions. They will follow specific recipes and use various magical ingredients to create potions, starting with simple ones and moving to more advanced ones as they progress in knowledge. 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 that all the mischief is managed.

Ice Skating

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPIS20 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.

Jedi Academy

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPJA20 FIND SESSIONS
Our campers will have an out-of-this-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 lightsabers in a fun and safe environment. Do you have what it takes to become a Jedi? Come find out in our amazing force-filled camp!

LEGO Fury

Ages 6-10 | SEARCH CODE: CPLGF20 FIND SESSIONS
This intense LEGO building camp is for the extreme LEGO camper. Campers will learn how to craft, build and construct different LEGO structures, through exciting games and instruction. Campers will also have the opportunity to use their imaginations to create their own structures and masterpieces. Fun awards and small prizes will be given out daily!

LEGO Mindstorm Robotics

Ages 8-13 | SEARCH CODE: CPLGMR20 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: CPLGWDR20 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!

Living Coast Discovery

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPLCD20 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!

Mission Bay Aquatics Paddling

Ages 8-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPPBRD20 FIND SESSIONS
Campers will learn proper paddling techniques on kayaks and stand up paddleboards through on the water games and other activities. The group will develop their skills and explore Mission Bay in this camp!

Mission Bay Aquatics Marine Science

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPMS20 FIND SESSIONS
This camp will allow campers plenty of hands-on experiences to learn about the world of marine science and ocean conservation. Activities including collecting and examining plankton through a microscope and even designing and building a remote controlled underwater ROV!

Muggles are Magic

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPMM20 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 that all the mischief is managed.

Musical Theater: High School Musical

Ages 7-13 | SEARCH CODE: CPMTHSM20 FIND SESSIONS
Take the stage in High School Musical theater camp! This camp will take our aspiring actors through the various aspects of theater and through the many steps that go into creating a successful performance at any level of theater. Your child will work with our professional actors/theater directors as we go through casting, rehearsal, stage and prop design, choreography and much more; all leading up to the matinee performance at the end of the two weeks. This camp is a great way to build confidence and public speaking skills! It sets the groundwork for aspiring theater artists.

Musical Theater: The Little Mermaid

Ages 7-13 | SEARCH CODE: CPMTLM20 FIND SESSIONS
Take the stage in The Little Mermaid theater camp! This camp will take campers through the various aspects of theater and the many steps that go into creating a successful performance at any level of theater. Your child will work with our professional actors/ theater directors as we go through casting, rehearsal, stage and prop design, choreography and much more; all leading up to the matinee performance at the end of the two weeks. This camp is a great way to build confidence and public speaking skills! It sets the groundwork for aspiring theater artists.

Nature Explorers

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPNE20 FIND SESSIONS
Did you know the average American child can identify roughly 1,000 corporate logos, but can only identify a handful of plants and animals native to their hometown? We created Green Explorers Club to change those numbers. This summer, your camper will learn about nature and sustainability through hands-on projects and life science experiments that help them understand and navigate our changing planet. During our Nature Explorers Camp, your camper will learn fun and easy ways to become more sustainable in their own backyard. Students will explore the vital roles of plants and animals and learn to sharpen their gardening skills in small spaces. Kids will learn about the pollinators who keep the world fed, ways scientists track animals in the wild, how to propagate houseplants, the basics of compost, and other easy sustainable things they can do at home.

Paintball

Ages 7-15 | SEARCH CODE: CPPNTB20 FIND SESSIONS
Campers will be learning as well as playing. They will be taught how to use the equipment, fill air, load paintballs and clean equipment. Rental equipment is included in the camp price. Each camper will get to use a Paintball Maker and a full-face mask goggle system. Get ready and join the run at Velocity Paintball.

Pokémon

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPPKM20 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.

SeaWorld

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPSWLD20 FIND SESSIONS
Visit Sea World 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 of the aquatic wild life 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: SeaWorld Fun Card included at the end of the camp week.

Skate, Scooter and BMX

Ages 6-15 | SEARCH CODE: CPSSBMX20 FIND SESSIONS
Drop off and pick up will occur directly at the Krause Family Skate Park. Kick-flip your way into summer by enrolling your young skater into this camp, designed for beginner to advanced skateboarders, scooter riders and BMXers. Instructors focus on basic safety, balance and simple maneuvers so that kids can master the basics. Advanced riders can expect a focus on higherlevel techniques so that campers can perfect skills that they already know. Instruction will take place at a Y-owned or partnered skate park in the mornings and campers will practice their skills during open riding time in the afternoons. Please note: We do not have or rent extra equipment. Please send campers with a skateboard, scooter or BMX bicycle daily. Campers are also expected to wear all safety gear daily: helmet, elbow pads and knee pads.

Soccer

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPSC20 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 Camp

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPSPLSH33 FIND SESSIONS
This wet, wild and fun camp is sure to keep your little fishes busy. Campers will enjoy a fun-filled, 30-minute jampacked swimming lesson with outstanding YMCA certified lifeguards, followed by an extended swim time full of splishing, splashing and splashing! Campers will also participate in fun water activities on site at the Y. When the children are not in the pool, they are having a blast participating in other camp activities such as arts and crafts, games, songs, sports and more.

Youth and Government

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPYG20 FIND SESSIONS
In this camp, inspired by the award winning anime "Avatar the Last Airbender", campers will have the opportunity to run a simulation of the real life United Nations called The United Republic of Nations. Campers will be assigned to one of the four nations: Water Tribe, Earth Kingdom, Fire Nation or Air Nomads. Campers will work together to stop the Fire Nation from taking over the world and come up with an agreement that allows all nations to live peacefully.

Zoo Camp

Ages 7-12 | SEARCH CODE: CPZOO20 FIND SESSIONS
Visit the world famous San Diego Zoo 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 wild life from all over the world and find out how these animals survive and adapt to life here in San Diego. Campers will get to cool down at the zoo's new splash pads, that's right...a splash pad INSIDE the zoo! Come prepared with a change of clothes, towel, socks and shoes. PLEASE NOTE: San Diego Zoo pass included at the end of the camp week.

About Us

Our Branch

MISSION VALLEY YMCA
Address: 5505 Friars Road, San Diego, CA 921109
Phone: (619) 298-3576

Camp Locations and Hours of Operation

Mission Valley YMCA
Address: 5505 Friars Road, San Diego, CA 92110
Camp hours: Full day: 7:30am - 5:00pm
Drop Off: 7:30-9:00am
Pick-Up: 3:30-5:00pm

View our camp drop-off map!

YMCA KRAUSE FAMILY SKATE & BIKE PARK (Skate, Scooter and BMX)
Address: 3401 Clairemont Dr., San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 246-6731

Directors and Supervisors

CAMP DIRECTOR & SUPERVISORS

Stephanie Cisneros
Camp Director
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (619) 298-3576

Our Camp Staff Are:

Mission Valley 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.

Deposits are non-refundable but can be immediately applied as a deposit for another camp if space is available or applied to an already existing camp balance within the same summer. See our Refund/Voucer/Transfer Policies for more information.

Waitlists

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.

Inclusion Program

If your camper has special needs, please let us know when registering. Mission Valley YMCA funds and operates an Inclusion Program that may be able to provide an aide for your camper. For more information regarding the Inclusion Program, please contact Marisa Armas at [email protected] or (619) 298-3576

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 Camp Director, Stephanie Cisneros at [email protected], with any questions, comments or concerns!