Climbing Camp

Climbing Camp is for campers entering Grades 6-10. Climbing Camp adds extra focus on the sport of man-made top-rope climbing, bouldering, as well as outdoor, real-rock climbing. Climbers sleep in platform tents that sleep up to 8 campers and 1 adult staff member of the same gender. Modern bathrooms and showers at the Barn are just a short walk away to provide the same comfort of the other camp programs without compromising a adventurous experience. Climbers participate in some of the classic camp favorites like waterfront activities while spending at least half of their days doing ropes and climbing activities. 

Your camper does not need to have participated in an Adventure program before in order to participate in our Climbing Camp, however previous climbing experience is highly encouraged. 

Please refer to the Parent Camper Guide on our website for the Packing List, but know that we provide the essentials to make sure your camper can join in the fun without needing to buy expensive outdoor gear. Campers will do more outdoor activities than Youth campers, so be sure that they bring clothing for both chilly mornings and hot afternoons, as well as footwear made for walking and closed-toe shoes for climbing. Please note that temperature variance at Y Camp can be wide. Camper sleep in canvas tents on wooden platforms, and sometimes our nights can be chilly. You know your camper better than anyone else; please be sure to check the weather before you check in to camp and add additional clothing/footwear as you see fit (search Cascade, ID for best weather results).

We highly recommend sending campers with a warm-rated sleeping bag. 

All campers at Y Camp participate in a cookout over a fire at some point during their week, but all meals except for that one are prepared and served to them in our commercial kitchen. 

Because Climbing campers do special things, staff that work with these campers get additional training and maintain a high supervision ratio, 1:8. 

All activities taking place on our real-rock climbing routes are under the supervision and tutelage of a certified Idaho Mountain Guide staff member, in addition to YMCA staff. 

All this is to say that our campers’ safety is our top priority. Staff members go through an intensive week-long training before campers arrive on site to ensure all staff are trained in safety and effective facilitation.