CONNECT. LEARN. GET INSPIRED.
NOVEMBER 9-12, 2026
We’re excited to invite you to the 2026 Western Camping Conference! Hosted right on the beach at YMCA Camp Surf in beautiful San Diego, this gathering of YMCA camp professionals offers a unique mix of keynote sessions, workshops, community building and good old-fashioned camp fun.
WHAT'S NEW THIS YEAR?
GOING GLOBAL
Building cultural competence and connection around the world. Join us before the fun of WCC begins for 1 additional day and become a Going Global trainer! It includes Sunday night accommodation and 2 extra meals.
As a trainer you will be the first to launch this new curriculum at YMCA youth programs including camp.
Developed by YMCA’s worldwide and supported by Y of the USA, Going Global TOT will deepen your impact, strengthen your global awareness and provide you with tools, fun activities, and thought-provoking ideas to bring to the programs you lead.
By implementing Going Global tools, we believe you will:
- Strengthen intercultural skills
- Create safe spaces for bridge-building
- Connect communities
- Equip community change-makers
- Build global citizens
2025 WCC MEMORIES
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Tentative schedule
Monday, November 9
8:00am: Going Global TOT breakfast and check in begins.
9:00am-12:00pm: Going Global TOT
12:30pm: Going Global TOT lunch
1:00-4:00pm: Going Global TOT
2:00pm: Check in begins and lodging opens
4:00pm: Conference begins
5:30pm: Dinner
7:00pm: Evening program
Tuesday, November 10
8:00am: Breakfast
9:15am: Welcome
9:30-10:30am: Keynote #1
10:45am-12:00pm: Workshops & Roundtable
12:30pm: Lunch
2:00-3:15pm: Workshops & Roundtable
3:30-4:45pm: Workshops & Roundtable
5:30pm: Dinner
7:00pm: Evening program
Wednesday, November 11
8:00am: Breakfast
9:15am: Welcome
9:30-10:30am: Keynote #2
10:45am-12:00pm: Workshops & Roundtable
12:30pm: Lunch
1:30pm: Group photo at pirate ship
2:00-3:15pm: Workshops & Roundtable
3:30-5:00pm: Vendors, activities and more
5:30pm: Dinner
7:00pm: Keynote #3
7:30pm: Evening Program & Auction
Thursday, November 12
8:00am: Breakfast
9:00am: Final day welcome
9:15-10:45am: Keynote #4
10:50am: Final message
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
It’s camp… so the registration process is a little different (and a little fun)! We’re using CampInTouch — a platform typically designed for family camp.
Steps to Register:
Click on “Adult/family application”. Select “2026” season. Fill out information. Click “Western Camping Conference @ YMCA Camp Surf” on tab 3.
Complete the application.
CONFERENCE COST
Full Conference | $275
Includes keynote sessions, workshops, meals, shared cabin accommodations, international partnerships and connections, plus a donation to YMCA World Service.
Going Global TOT Training | $100
Includes Going Global resources, Going Global trainer guidebook, 1-night shared cabin style accommodation and breakfast & lunch (prior to WCC dinner).
Single Day Pass | $100
Includes a YMCA World Service donation, day of workshop, keynote speaker, and breakfast, lunch and dinner.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS: Coming soon!
Please contact Ashley Gibson at agibson@seattleymca.org with speaker inquiries.
CONFERENCE CONTACTS
- Conference information, scholarships, presenters and World Service: ymcawesterncc@gmail.com or Ashley Gibson agibson@seattleymca.org
- Accommodation (limited bedding available): Bolling Keogh bkeogh@ymcasd.org
