Downtown Camps

Published On: February 5, 2025Categories: Camp, Downtown YMCA, Event, News

TRADITIONAL CAMP (ages 4-12)

Campers will build self-confidence through character education, teamwork, and sportsmanship while gaining independence as they nurture their spirits, challenge their minds, and strengthen their bodies. They’ll explore diverse interests and have fun along the way!

Our Traditional Camp is offered at Richland One schools Monday through Thursday, with a healthy breakfast and lunch provided by Richland One. Enhance your camper’s experience by registering for Friday Fun Days!

Campers must be 4 years old by June 2, 2025.

RICHLAND ONE LOCATIONS (Click on location links to register):

Registration Fee: $30*
Weekly Nonrefundable Deposit: $25
Weekly Fee: $130

*Early Bird Discount: Register prior to April 30th and we will waive the $30 registration fee! Use the discount code #earlybird.


SUMMER SOAR PROGRAM: BEFORE/AFTER CARE ADD-ON (Ages 5-12)

Attending Richland One Summer SOAR? Extended day add-ons are available through YMCA Traditional Day Camp! Through YMCA AM and PM SOAR add-ons, children can participate with Traditional Day Camp in a variety of activities to nurture their spirits, challenge their minds, and strengthen their bodies. Register for Friday Fun Days to supplement their SOAR experience!

WHEN: Monday-Thursday (Drop-off: 7:00-9:00 am | Pick-Up: 3:00-6:00 pm)

COST PER WEEK:
• AM SOAR Add-On: 7:00-9:00 am, $40
• PM SOAR Add-On: 3:00-6:00 pm, $40
• AM & PM SOAR Add-On: 7:00-9:00 am AND 3:00-6:00 pm, $60

Registration Fee: $30*

Weekly Nonrefundable Deposit: $25

Cost Per Day: $40/$60

*Early Bird Discount: Register prior to April 30th and we will waive the $30 registration fee! Use the discount code #earlybird.


FRIDAY FUN DAYS (ages 4-12)

Each Friday, campers can enjoy exciting field trips for an extra boost of fun! Enhance your child’s Richland One Traditional Camp experience with this exciting add-on or sign them up for Friday Fun Days as a standalone summer adventure. No weekly camp enrollment required!

Location: Church of Apostles, 1520 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Drop-off is between 7:00-8:45 am, and the bus will depart promptly at 9:00am, returning around 3:00pm and ending at 6:00pm.

  • June 6, 2025
  • June 13, 2025
  • June 20, 2025
  • June 27, 2025
  • July 11, 2025
  • July 18, 2025

Registration Fee: $30*
Weekly Nonrefundable Deposit: $25
Weekly Fee: $40
*Early Bird Discount: Register prior to April 30th and we will waive the $30 registration fee! Use the discount code #earlybird.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER


GRAND FINALE CAMP (ages 4-12)

Wrap up your summer in the best way with the YMCA Grand Finale! For two weeks, all our traditional camp programs will unite for exciting field trips and unforgettable adventures.

Location: Church of Apostles, 1520 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Drop-off is between 7:00-8:45am, with the bus departing promptly at 9:00am for our destination. We’ll return to the church around 3:00pm and ending at 6:00pm.

  • July 21-25, 2025
  • July 28-Aug. 1, 2025

Registration Fee: $30*
Weekly Nonrefundable Deposit: $25
Weekly Fee: M $185, N $210
*Early Bird Discount: Register prior to April 30th and we will waive the $30 registration fee! Use the discount code #earlybird.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER


COUNSELORS IN TRAINING (CITs)

The Counselor in Training (CIT) program provides teens with training in using effective leadership skills throughout their lives and how to effectively lead children. CITs are provided with training, leadership, and mentors as they assist in day camp programs. CITs must attend the training date (May 31) that will ensure they are prepared to work with youth. Program requires application and interview. Applications are due May 1.

CITs must commit to a minimum of 4 weeks, Monday – Thursday from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Deposit Fee: $25
Weekly Rates: M $75, NM $90

Download the application here, complete and email to Catie Young at CatieYoung@columbiaymca.org.


ADVENTURE CAMPS

Experience an action-packed summer at YMCA Adventure Camp! Designed for children ages 9 to 14, this program blends exploration, skill-building, and unforgettable memories. Each week features a new, exciting theme, from cooking and art to sports and outdoor adventures. Campers develop valuable skills, spark their creativity, and connect with friends who share their passions.

LOCATION: Washington Street UMC, 1401 Washington St, Columbia, SC 29201

WHEN: Monday-Friday | Drop-off: 8-9 am | Pick-up: 4-5 pm

Registration Fee: $30*
Weekly Nonrefundable Deposit: $25

COST PER WEEK: $185 YMCA Member, $210 Nonmember
**Plus $20 per-person fees for select weeks: On the Water 2, Visual Arts, Culinary Kids

*Early Bird Discount: Register prior to April 30th and we will waive the $30 registration fee! Use the discount code #earlybird.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER


WEEKLY THEMES


June 2-6: Cola Crew

Become a tourist in Columbia this week and explore what makes this capital city unique! Museums, parks, historic sites, and more make Columbia special. Campers will enjoy the experiences Soda City has to offer!

June 9-13: Wilderness
Explore South Carolina’s amazing parks at Wilderness Camp! Campers will hike, swim, and connect with nature. Sturdy shoes for miles of walking and a hydration pack or water bottle are recommended for the adventure!

June 16-20: Culinary Kids**
Understanding the fundamentals of cooking and baking prepares everyone for a well-fueled life. Explore the process behind your favorite foods, experiment, and engage the senses from farm to plate.

June 23-27: Arts Alive
Unleash your creativity! Dive into art, music, dance, and drama. Paint, perform, and collaborate with fellow artists. Whether you’re a pro or just starting, this vibrant camp is for you!

June 30-July 3: On the Water 1 (No Camp July 4th)
Back by popular demand. Between South Carolina’s lakes, rivers, and pools, there is so much water to explore. Campers will enjoy splashing in the water, boating, fishing, and all things water! This week only- experience the thrill of Carowinds rides and water attractions!

July 7-11: Sports Sampler
Get ready to play! Try new sports, sharpen skills, and have a blast with friends. Focus on teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun while staying active. Lace up and join the adventure!

July 14-18: Park Hoppers
Embark on an outdoor adventure through South Carolina’s stunning parks! Hike, bike, fish, and swim while discovering hidden trails and wildlife. Pack up and join the fun!

July 21-25: Visual Arts**
Enjoy a week of creativity through different visual art mediums. Activities may include pottery, canvas making, macrame and more. Display your artwork at the end of the week during the camp art showcase!

July 28-Aug. 1: On the Water 2**
Between South Carolina’s lakes, rivers, and pools, there is so much water to explore. Campers will enjoy splashing in the water, boating, fishing, and all things water!

Note: Activities are subject to availability and safety conditions. Updates will be communicated via email closer to the start of summer. For any weeks that an additional per person fee is indicated, families will receive a credit for that amount if particular events/activities are canceled and cannot be rescheduled that week.

QUESTIONS: Email Youth Development Director Catie Young or call 803.799.9187