Summer Day Camp

Summer Day Camp

Summer is time for kids to explore and expand the limits of their imagination. At the YMCA of Greater Des Moines’ summer day camp, every day is a new adventure!

Our camps focus on three of the critical dimensions of children’s well-being: achievement, belonging and developing relationships while also having a fun, action-packed, safe summer! Our staffing, instruction and programs are built around the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Safety is our first priority for children and staff. We will continue to follow guidelines set forth by local health officials and the CDC. A current immunization form must be uploaded in order to complete their registration for camp.

Hours: Pre and Post Camp care is provided at no additional cost.

West Des Moines Christian Church drop off is 6:30 am and pick up is 6:00 pm.
Colby Park drop off is 7:00 am and pick up is 6:00 pm.

Ages: All children who have completed kindergarten through 5th grade.

Payment Details: Paying the deposit will hold your child’s space in camp. The deposit is non-refundable and will be applied towards the balance due for that week of camp. The deposit will increase from $10 to $20 on Monday, March 24. During the registration process you can pay for each week in full or elect to pay the Tuesday before each camp week. If you need to make changes to the camp weeks you have selected, please notify us two weeks prior to the camp starting to avoid paying for that week of camp.

Financial Assistance

Through generous contributions from YMCA and community members, no one is turned away due to the inability to pay. If you think you qualify for assistance, please contact Heather Jackson, Youth Program Support Coordinator 

Themes and Descriptions

Adventure Quest

A thrilling theme that takes the kiddos on an epic journey of exploration and discovery. Through team challenges, outdoor expeditions and problem-solving quests, the kids begin to immerse themselves in a world of adventure.

Nature Navigators

This week is focused on exploring the great outdoors and learning the art of navigation. Through hands-on activities, environmental challenges,and nature walks, the students will discover the beauty of the natural world and gain confidence navigating. Utilizing exploration, teamwork and environmental care.

Art & Soul

This week will celebrate creativity and self-expression through the arts. Students will explore a variety of artistic outlets, from painting, music, dance, theater etc. This week is all about encouraging campers personal growth, imagination, and emotional expression.

Goal Getters

Through a series of challenges , team sports, and individual projects, campers will learn the importance of determination and perseverance. With the focus on self-motivation and growth they will gain the confidence to tackle new obstacles and reach new heights.

Camp Joy

Camp Joy week creates an uplifting atmosphere to embrace the spirit of fun,friendship, and pure enjoyment. Emphasizing gratitude , kindness, and making lasting memories through activities centered around connection and sense of belonging.

Dive Into Discovery

This week encourages campers to explore the wonders of science and new experiences. Using interactive challenges and sparking curiosity in STEM , the campers will uncover the wonders of exploration through science.

Kids for the Community

This theme empowers campers to make a positive impact on their community. Through service projects, children will learn the value of giving back and helping others. This theme fosters empathy, responsibility, and a sense of pride in helping with the well-being of others.

Campers Got Talent

This week will celebrate the unique abilities and creative talents of every camper. This theme encourages self-expression, teamwork, and discovering hidden talents, all leading up to a thrilling talent show where everyone can shine.

Curious Kids

Campers will embark on exciting,educational, hands-on activities that ignite their curiosity about the world around them. From experiments, adventures, and science discoveries they will engage the endless possibilities of knowledge in a fun and new way.

In My Summer Camp Era

This is a fun nostalgic take on summer camp. Channeling the stereotypical take on summer camp: tents, songs, smores and a real sense of unity and belonging – all while reflecting on what makes their summer experience unique and unforgettable. They will celebrate the lasting impact of camp, fun, and friendships.

Colby Park

Walnut Creek
6/9/25 - 8/15/25
VIEW

FROM JANUARY 1-FEBRUARY 28 REGISTRATION IS OPEN ONLY TO RESIDENTS OF WINDSOR HEIGHTS.

MARCH 1- REGISTRATION WILL OPEN FOR ALL OTHERS

Price:
Members: $195.00
Non-Members: $215.00
*Scholarships available.

Location:
Colby Park 6900 School St, Windsor Heights, IA 50324

Time: 7am-6pm

Ages:
5 1/2-12 Years

Please note that the first parent listed will be the one to receive the email.


Available Sessions

Date(s) Minimum Deposit Special Rate
06/09/25 - 06/13/25
Adventure Quest - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
06/16/25 - 06/20/25
Nature Navigators - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
06/23/25 - 06/27/25
Art & Soul - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
06/30/25 - 07/04/25
Goal Getters (No Camp 07/04) - Mo,Tu,We,Th - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 $156 - $172 Register  
07/07/25 - 07/11/25
Camp Joy - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
07/14/25 - 07/18/25
Dive Into Discovery - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
07/21/25 - 07/25/25
Kids For The Community - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
07/28/25 - 08/01/25
Campers Got Talent - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
08/04/25 - 08/08/25
Curious Kids - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  
08/11/25 - 08/15/25
In My Summer Camp Era - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 11 hrs
$ 10.00 Register  

West Des Moines Christian Church

Walnut Creek
6/9/25 - 8/15/25
VIEW

Price:
Members: $195.00
Non-Members: $215.00
*Scholarships available.

Location:
4501 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266

Time: 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages:
5 1/2-12 Years

Please note that the first parent listed will be the one to receive the email.


Available Sessions

Date(s) Minimum Deposit Special Rate
06/09/25 - 06/13/25
Adventure Quest - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
06/16/25 - 06/20/25
Nature Navigators - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
06/23/25 - 06/27/25
Art & Soul - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
06/30/25 - 07/04/25
Goal Getters - Mo,Tu,We,Th - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 $156 - $172 Register  
07/07/25 - 07/11/25
Camp Joy (No camp 07/04/2025) - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
07/14/25 - 07/18/25
Dive Into Discovery - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
07/21/25 - 07/25/25
Kids For The Community - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
07/28/25 - 08/01/25
Campers Got Talent - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
08/04/25 - 08/08/25
Curious Kids - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register  
08/11/25 - 08/15/25
In My Summer Camp Era - Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr - 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
$ 10.00 Register