Camps & Outdoor AdventuresDiscover YMCA Camps
At the YMCA of Marion & Polk Counties, camp is more than a week away from home — it’s a chance to grow, connect, and have fun in nature. Whether your camper is exploring the forest at Camp Silver Creek or spending summer days making memories at our Day Camps, every Y camp builds confidence, leadership, and lifelong friendships. Discover the perfect camp experience for every age and interest below.
Explore Our Camps
From traditional overnight adventures to day camps close to home, YMCA camps give kids the opportunity to learn new skills, make friends, and build a love of the outdoors.
Camp Silver Creek (Overnight Camp)
Camp Silver Creek (Overnight Camp)
Tucked in the Cascade foothills, Camp Silver Creek offers a classic overnight camp experience full of adventure and connection. Campers unplug from screens and rediscover the outdoors through hiking, swimming, crafts, and team-building. Each day builds confidence, friendships, and a lifelong love of nature.
Camp Greider (Day Camp)
Camp Greider (Day Camp)
Located near West Salem, Camp Greider provides traditional camp fun close to home. Kids spend their days exploring nature, trying new activities, and learning new skills—all under the guidance of caring YMCA staff. It’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and hometown convenience.
Camp Sunchaser (Day Camp)
Camp Sunchaser (Day Camp)
At Camp Sunchaser, kids enjoy a full day of discovery, creativity, and friendship. From outdoor games and crafts to themed adventures, every day offers a new way to grow and belong. Campers return home with smiles, stories, and new confidence after every session.
Preschool Camp
Preschool Camp
Preschool Camp gives our youngest campers their first taste of YMCA camp fun. Through hands-on play, songs, and outdoor discovery, children learn cooperation, creativity, and confidence in a safe, caring setting. It’s the perfect first step into the world of camp.
Summer Overnight Adventure
Experience Camp Silver Creek
For over 90 years, Camp Silver Creek has been a place where kids disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature, friendship, and self-discovery. Nestled in the foothills of the Cascades, this overnight camp offers classic outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, campfires, and team challenges — all in a supportive, values-driven environment. Campers gain confidence, independence, and lifelong memories in the great outdoors. Spaces fill quickly each season, so secure your camper’s spot today!
Camp Countdown
Camp Essentials
Every Y camp is designed to support families with flexible options and the highest level of care. Here’s what you need to know before your camper arrives.
Registration & Fees
Registration for all camps opens each spring. Scholarships and financial assistance are available so every child can attend.
Safety & Supervision
Safety is our top priority. All staff are trained in CPR, first aid, and youth development practices.
Packing Lists
Each camp provides a detailed packing guide to help you prepare.
Camp Greider & Camp Sunchaser
Our day camps make summer simple and joyful for families. Camp Greider, our outdoor day camp in West Salem, offers both traditional camp experiences and specialty camps rooted in hands-on exploration, creativity, and active play. Campers spend their days exploring, creating, playing big games, and building confidence through hands-on, outdoor learning. Camp Sunchaser brings summer camp to our youth development sites in Salem and Monmouth–Independence, blending structured enrichment, active play, and supportive relationships in familiar, in-town settings. Select Camp Sunchaser sites accept ERDC, helping make summer care more accessible for families.
What Families Say
“My daughter came home from Camp Silver Creek more confident and independent than ever before. She can’t wait to go back!”
“Camp Greider was my son’s favorite part of summer — he still talks about the friends he made!”
Preschool Camp Adventures
Preschool Camp introduces our youngest adventurers to outdoor fun in a safe and caring environment. Activities include storytime, crafts, nature play, and early team games. This is the perfect introduction to the YMCA’s camp experience — designed to build confidence, curiosity, and joy.
Camp FAQs
We offer overnight, day, and preschool camps designed for different ages and interests.
Most programs serve campers ages 3–14. Specific age groups vary by camp.
Registration is available online or in person at your local branch.
Yes! The Y provides scholarships so every child can experience camp.
