Teens – The Prime Age for Camp

When people think of summer camp, they often picture young children playing games, singing songs and getting a little muddy. But at YGBW, the fun doesn’t stop once your child hits their teen years. In fact, teens are the perfect age for camp.

We sat down with Jazmyn, our Senior Association Director of Teen Programs (and former camp counselor) to explore why summer camp is one of the best places for teens to learn, lead and launch into their futures.

Is My Teen Too Old for Camp?

The short answer: Absolutely not.

At YGBW, we’ve created summer programs specifically for teens who are ready for more independence, adventure and growth opportunities. Our Teen Trek Camp (ages 12–15) offers campers the chance to travel to local destinations four days a week, making every week a fresh experience.

Teen camps offer a balance of freedom and structure – where teens get to stretch their wings while being guided by experienced mentors.

Does Camp Boost College Applications (and Resumes)?

Today’s teens are under more pressure than ever to stand out in competitive college and job markets. That’s where camp comes in.

Camp experience highlights qualities that colleges and employers love – like leadership, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving. Whether it’s mentoring younger campers, navigating challenges as a group or leading a camp-wide game, these are moments that translate into practical skills.

Camps that build leadership skills – like our Counselor-in-Training and Leader-in-Training camps – empower teens to have a summer that is both meaningful and memorable.

Leader-in-Training. Counselor-in-Training. What’s the Difference?

For teens who dream of becoming camp counselors, the path starts with our Counselor-in-Training program, open to ages 14–15. It offers hands-on leadership experience and prepares them to eventually take on full counselor roles.

For the most benefit, layer in volunteering experience, such as helping at community events. This shows that you are dedicated, passionate and willing to lend a hand.

How do you Keep Teens Engaged without Screens?

Understandably, parents worry that their teens will check out or glue themselves to screens all summer? But, not at YGBW!

With our Teen Trek camp, your teen will be too busy to think about their phone. Our campers go to field trips all days except Mondays – which are reserved for planning our week. We take Teen campers to Hershey Park, Philly Rock Gym, Lancaster Barnstormers, Herr’s Chip Factory – just to name a few!

Campers enrolled in Leader-in-Training or Counselor-in-Training will be honing their leadership skills and sketching out their future. With their eyes on the prize, they won’t have time to think about what’s trending on social.

At the heart of it, our staff helps teens embrace the moment and realize just how much they can gain from unplugging and diving into the camp experience.

What Sets YGBW Apart?

We’re more than a camp. We’re a launchpad for life.

Our camps are rooted in the YMCA’s four core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. These aren’t just words on a poster – they’re the foundation of everything we do.

At YGBW, camp isn’t just summer fun. It’s a transformative experience that helps teens build character, confidence and connections that last a lifetime. Whether they’re leading peers, helping others or simply being their authentic selves, every day at camp is a chance to grow.

How has Camp changed your life?

When I was a college student at West Chester University, I worked as a camp counselor for YGBW. Those summers truly shaped who I am today. Watching kids grow, try new things and succeed inspired me in ways I never expected.

YGBW Camp sparked my passion for youth development and led me to my career at the Y – proof that a summer job can make a lifelong impact.

What’s your Favorite?

·       Favorite Camp Activity: Water games! Nothing beats a water balloon toss or slip-n-slide on a hot day.

·       Favorite Theme Week: Spooktacular Halloweek – bringing fall vibes to summer? Yes, please.

·       Which Camp Would She Choose as a Teen? Teen Trek, hands down. It’s the perfect mix of independence and fun.

·       Favorite Core Value: Caring. Helping others and creating life-changing experiences is what it’s all about.

·       Top Camp Tradition: Swimming! It’s the heart of summer joy – cooling off, making memories and just having fun.

Ready to Give Your Teen a Summer That Changes Everything?

Teen years are a critical time for growth, self-discovery and developing real-world skills. YGBW’s teen summer camps offer a safe, supportive and exciting space for teens to explore, lead and thrive.

Let this be the summer your teen remembers for years to come. Register today.