About us

Phantom Lake YMCA Camp is the nation's oldest YMCA camp. Since 1896, we have been helping individuals grow spiritually, mentally, physically, and socially. 

Our Mission + Vision

Mission: To provide fun, empowering, inclusive, transformational camp experiences for kids of all ages, needs, backgrounds, and abilities. 

Vision: An inclusive world where every child has the opportunity to experience the joy, community, and transformation of camp to grow mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially. 

Inclusion

At Phantom Lake YMCA Camp, we strive to provide an enriching, safe summer camp experience to every camper who attends our programs. We work to foster an inclusive environment for our camper and staff communities so that everyone enjoys the benefits of summer camp - across; race, the gender spectrum, national origin, religion, ability, ethnicity, and sexual orientation.

Inclusion is a core part of our mission, but we go beyond statements and put these goals into action. We are committed to seeking out best practices and resources to support all of our campers and develop inclusive programming and staff training.

To date, these efforts have resulted in a dedicated Inclusion and Outreach Director on staff, the development of sensory rooms at camp, single-use gender-neutral bathroom options, increased training for both staff and camp leadership, and an increased capacity to adapt the camp experience for children with varying support needs. Funds from this event will enable us to continue building on our inclusion efforts to create a world where every kid has the opportunity to experience camp.