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Y Camp (Des Moines YMCA Camp)
1192 166th Dr, Boone, IA 50036, United States
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Mr
Review №1

This was the best place to go as a kid. Some of my best memories are there! Will remember for the rest of my life! I can not say enough you should send your children there they will have a blast!

An
Review №2

My favorite childhood memories are now my childrens awesome childhood memories. I went for the first time in the mid 80s and continued until I was too old to go, my oldest started going when she was 8, now both of my kids go every year. We have appreciated day camp as well as overnight camp for many years. We go every year! Good clean fun enjoying nature, great activities, crafts, sports, my daughter just told me to give them a 10 out of 5 and I would if it was an option!

Ki
Review №3

I love it here so much that i would live in the woodsi also became the banana man so that was cool

Ch
Review №4

My little man has enjoyed camp with Childrens Cancer Connection every summer of his treatment from the year of diagnosis. This is the one place life is completely normal, no one is left out, everyone gets to enjoy the silliness and the lifelong memories of camp fun. Thank you Y Camp for helping to make this possible. Thank you for making my little man smile!

Ma
Review №5

The camp itself is amazing. The whole place is very clean. The cabins are fairly spacious and comfy, but dont have a restroom. The buildings are really nice and also very unique. The location is absolutely beautiful. There are plenty of things to do around camp, such as a pool and zip line. Overall, an amazing place to spend the weekend m

Ga
Review №6

The YMCA Camp is an amazing place with even more amazing staff! With over 400 acres of beautiful Des Moines River valley available to them, you wont find a place that throws you back to those iconic days of camp from your youth! They do outdoor education with animals, cabin camping, primitive camping, and all types of camp fun! To say that the staff believe in the mission of the YMCA doesnt cover their commitment to the health, safety and character development of ever camper in their care! If you get the chance, stop in for a tour or take part some of their festivities, you wont be sorry!

Da
Review №7

Y Camp is amazing. It is in a beautiful location in a forest next to a river and is always beautiful. It has all of the things that you would want in a summer camp, and it also has great places for adults and retreat groups too. They have an extensive outdoor education program and can easily handle large school groups and overnight stays. One of the great things about Y Camp is their continuous commitment to improvement. It is not an exaggeration to say that there is something different (either new or improved, like a cabin being upgraded or new hammocks for summer camp) every year at camp. You have to keep going to keep up with all of the things they are doing.

le
Review №8

Y camp was great. Kyle and the other naturalist did an amazing job even in spite of the rainy weather.

Be
Review №9

Growing up Y-Camp was always my home away from home even if it was just for a week. I would wait all year to go back and see all the wonderful friends I had made during my stay, and I still continue to be friends with the amazing people I met through camp.The leaders are all truly amazing and really make the childrens experience grow! There is a saying that at camp you dont make friends they are given too you and I 100% agree! I hope to one day send my children here so they can share in all the great experiences I had!

Ar
Review №10

Going to camp was my favourite part of the year, even more so than Christmas! I made so many friends that I still keep in touch with and remember fond memories every day. As a leader, my favourite memory was when I had a girl in my cabin who was extremely shy, did not like to be the centre of attention. She started coming out of her shell more and more and making new friends but you still ask yourself what will make this the best experience for my camper? Later that week she performed in the Arty Show. She stood on stage with her new best friend and sang at the top of her lungs into a microphone. She was dancing and couldnt get have of the words out because she was laughing so hard. I cried. Camp gave this girl so much confidence and tons of new friends and gave her a space where she felt comfortable and supported. Thats what camp gives to children.

Me
Review №11

This place has given me my forever family, lifelong friendships, years of experiences and knowledge, and I couldnt ask for a better place to call home. This place is truely the closest place to heaven on earth. I have attended camp for 20 summers and each one is more memorable and fun than the year before. I highly recommend to anyone who wants to experience a life changing summer! Any child or adult would love it and will gain so much more than just a fun week in the woods. This camp is incredible. I cant wait for this summer!

Gr
Review №12

This place is the happiest place on earth. Today I am a successful teacher and parent and I owe it all to the time I spent at camp as both a camper and leader. Y-camp is the best, and through Family camp I can keep that spirit of being a kid into my old age and pass it on to my kids! The people that I have met and interacted with have continued to shape my life. Thank you Y-camp for all you have done for me and my family over the past 4 generations!

Je
Review №13

Most of my best memories took place at Y-Camp in Boone, Iowa. As a kid, camp helped me with self acceptance, building friendships, and appreciating nature. Working at camp taught me about hard work, overcoming challenges, and the importance of teamwork.I enjoy bringing my children to camp every year and watching how Y-camp helps them to grow into respectful, responsible, honest, and young people. When my kids go away for the week, I know they are safe and having a wonderful time. At the end of the week they come home dirty, tired and full of confidence, great stories, and wonderful memories.

Ma
Review №14

My organization has been renting from Y Camp for 15+ years now and there is no where we would rather go for our summer camps. The staff are incredibly accommodating and always go the extra mile to make your experience exceptional. The facilities are unrivaled in the state of Iowa and the river valley is truly one of the most beautiful places Ive ever been. We could not be happier to be a part of the Y Camp family.

LI
Review №15

We had a wonderful conference here in August! The grounds are beautiful! The beds are pretty nice too!

Me
Review №16

The leadership here is top notch, and the facilities and location is beautiful. They have a lot of different summer program offerings. Its a wonderful camp in the woods next to the river thats only an hour from Des Moines.

Al
Review №17

Its hard for me to think of words that can truly convey the magic that is Y Camp. As a kid, this was the one place that I always felt 100% comfortable to be myself, where I was challenged to be a better person every day, and where friends were made that I still have today when no other friendships lasted the years. Then as an adult and leader I was able to pass on that magic to others and watch other kids go through those same experiences. Now that my camp years are over, my nieces are all continuing the tradition and camp is becoming that place for them as well. Y Camp changed me, challenged me, and helped me discover who I am.

Mi
Review №18

I love the Des Moines YMCA Camp in Boone Iowa! All of the staff are amazing, and Ive made friends there that I talk to all year round! Ive had an amazing experience there and I always look forward to Family Camp week! Im not even a person who normally enjoys camping but I have SO many sweet memories of the camp and it holds a special place in my heart!

Ho
Review №19

Excellent horsemanship program for all ages and trail rides offered for any level of riding. Located in the beautiful river valley with scenic trails and fabulous staff, Y Camp is great for kids of any age to attend. If your child loves horses, highly consider the ranch camp program to help refine and build equestrian skills and knowledge!

Ra
Review №20

Y-camp has and always will be my home away from home. It has introduced me to friends that have become family and for that I am forever thankful! Camp has seen me grow and become the person I am today. The things Ive learned and experienced at camp will be apart of me for the rest of my life. I highly recommend the Y-camp experience for all ages!

Ky
Review №21

A great place to be a kid. The staff are carefully chosen and trained not just in program areas, but in how to help kids make friends and become better people. Cabins and bathrooms are cleaned regularly. Food tastes good, and is kid friendly.

Je
Review №22

Ive been attending camp since I was a little girl. Its the closet place to heaven on earth. I have too many fond memories of this place to list them all but perhaps my favorite was the day I married my best friend, whom I met at camp while we were both leaders. We attend Family camp each summer. Great way to vacation and disconnect.

Ch
Review №23

Favorite place on Earth! Life long Family Camper. As a kid it was a safe place to grow and take risks and achieve! As a parent, i get to see my kids experience the same. It is a place to reconnect with old friends, family, and with myself. A week of unplugged relaxation where I also get to be a kid along with my kids. Whats better than a week at camp!! The staff amaze me year after year with their dedication to making sure each child (and each family during Family Camp week) has the best camp experience. Thank you Y-Camp!!

Pa
Review №24

Y Camp is an amazing place for children to grow and learn! It is a great place for them to truly be themselves. After being on staff for three years camp has become a home away from home. It truly is the closest place to heaven on earth.

Na
Review №25

Started going to Y-camp 5 years ago as a teen camper and fell in love with the place!!! What is the best thing though is that when I thought we were just having fun or playing a game I was being taught life lessons that have taken hold and lasted till today!!! Cant wait till I can come back and visit the closest place to heaven on earth.

Al
Review №26

Incredible experience for kids of all ages. Programs teach character values, foster independence and encourage adventure. Best place you can find to mix fun with development and learning opportunities.

Ch
Review №27

This was my sons first year and he was EXTREMELY anxious after having a terrible camp experience a few years ago at a small town church camp. He came home A DIFFERENT CHILD! I could see the new self confidence and positivity radiating off him. He made friends and said they were so busy he didnt have time to be homesick. His favorite part was the feeling of community and the CONSTANT SINGING! He did report that even though I emailed ever day he didnt receive them all and didnt hear anything until Thursday. That bothered me but Id send him back in a heartbeat. As a matter of fact, hes probably gonna be a lifer.

Ni
Review №28

Seems to be a great place for kids to learn some valuable lessons and have lots of fun.

KE
Review №29

Y Camp is an amazing place! I cannot describe the positive effects it has on my boys. The leaders/staff are very caring and professional, and the programs are outstanding!

Ta
Review №30

My summers at Y-Camp are where many of my favorite memories come from. From being a camper, to being on staff, to being a family camper Ive learned so many valuable life lessons that have carried over into every day life. I cannot say enough about Y-Camp, the people, and the programs that make camp what it is to my family and me.

Co
Review №31

Really awesome place. the time i spent there i had awesome meals and a really great time. Has some amazing views and great things to see.

Or
Review №32

Went here for my 3rd week of summer camp, and everything was awesome! Loved it!

Es
Review №33

When I think of my experience at YCamp, I cant find a single moment of sadness. YCamp is home away from home, people there can make you feel like you belong, even if youre miles and miles away from your culture like I was. The experience is great, the place is wonderful and the people are magic! I recommend it to everyone that looks for fun, learning and good times during the Summer!

Co
Review №34

As a leader for 6 years, and full time staff for 3, I never got to experience the magic of Y Camp from a camper perspective. I did however, have the pleasure of watching so many campers grow out of their shell and mature into incredible people. I cant begin to count the number of Honor Point ceremonies where there were many sobbing, slobbering, campers and leaders not wanting the magic to end. Y Camp holds true to its promises of being the Closest place to Heaven on Earth and At Y Camp, friends are given to you.

Co
Review №35

This is an amazing place, I have gone here for 10 years, and I have gained so many life skills, and social skills. I would not be the person I am today without this camp. Send your kids here people!!!! I love you YCAMP

Ri
Review №36

The area looks wonderful. My kids had so much fun there.

Er
Review №37

This camp has done so much for so many people. I have attended Y-Camp for 12 years now and I will never get tired of it. Kids from all different lifestyles get to come together for a week and create memories that will last a lifetime. Not only that, but being a leader is one of the best experiences you can get for a summer job!

HU
Review №38

Vary fun good staff but private renting is an extra $150 during the week.

Me
Review №39

The YCAMP has given me a lot in life, including: 3 great summers working on staff, opportunities to grow and lead, a group of friends and colleagues to rely on, and the chance to further my career through camp connections. Camp is a great place for anyone.

Ku
Review №40

Always enjoyed camp as a kid. So did our kids and grandkids - at Family Camp. It just keeps getting better.

Pa
Review №41

Y Camp has helped me grow from a shy camper into a confident leader. I am so thankful for the friendships and memories that Y Camp has given me over the years!

Ni
Review №42

Its an amazing place full of joy and wonder for everyone involved, kids and adults.

Je
Review №43

Closest place to heaven on Earth! Its not just a catch phrase, its the truth!

es
Review №44

Fantastic camp! Clean and well staffed!

He
Review №45

Incredible staff and state of the art facilities. Wonderful place for children to grow and learn.

Mi
Review №46

My niece first year there amazing staff

Lu
Review №47

Beautiful facilities. Great for retreats.

Ma
Review №48

Great to work with! They live by Do All The Good You Can!

Ap
Review №49

I spent all of my college summers working at Y Camp. It is a positive environment for both kids and adults to experience new and exciting challenges.

Tr
Review №50

Awesome place awesome ppl

Di
Review №51

Participated as staff for diabetes camp. Lots to do. Food mediocre but noted some improvement last time.

Ke
Review №52

Family Camp @Y Camp in Boone rejuvenates the spirit. Closest place to heaven on Earth!

Ch
Review №53

Loved the AA retreat and would love to go again.

Ma
Review №54

Y-Camp is an amazing place to attend and work at! Lifelong friends and experiences.

La
Review №55

Most beautiful place in Iowa. A great place to spend the summer.

ch
Review №56

A truly Inspirational place for growth and community togetherness.

Ci
Review №57

Had a awesome time. Thank you

Ka
Review №58

Y Camp has great programs that impact so many people.

St
Review №59

Fun place. Lots of gnats.

Se
Review №60

Loving, inviting, including, are words synonymous with Y Camp. Can recommend. 10/10

D
Review №61

Literally the closest place to heaven on earth

Co
Review №62

It changed my life!

ka
Review №63

Nice camp for kids with diabetes

Ma
Review №64

Great camp! Beautiful!

Jo
Review №65

Awesome place with great staff

Am
Review №66

Amazing place and life changing experiences!!!

Jo
Review №67

Closest place to heaven on Earth

Je
Review №68

Great facilities

Ba
Review №69

Best summer camp memories!

Gi
Review №70

Great camp

Ku
Review №71

Very good enough

Jo
Review №72

Kid loves it

AK
Review №73

I got food poisoning

Je
Review №74

Just all around wonderful

Ou
Review №75

Awesome place

Fr
Review №76

Hard to turn a bus around.

Qu
Review №77

Great

WI
Review №78

When I was there it was the experience of a lifetime

MI
Review №79

Worst week of my life. i hope it gets closed. FOR GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Information
100 Photos
79 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:1192 166th Dr, Boone, IA 50036, United States
  • Site:http://y-camp.org/
  • Phone:+1 515-432-7558
Categories
  • Camp
  • Conference center
Working hours
  • Monday:8am–4:30pm
  • Tuesday:8am–4:30pm
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:Closed
  • Friday:8am–4:30pm
  • Saturday:8am–4:30pm
  • Sunday:8am–4:30pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
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