YMCA Camp Harrison

Accommodation

Campers live in modern log cabins that combine comfort with classic camp spirit. Each cabin is equipped with air-conditioning, bunk beds, and in-cabin bathroom and shower facilities, making it a welcoming space for both new and experienced campers.

Cabin groups are arranged by age and gender to support appropriate social development and shared interests. Counselors live in or alongside the cabins, creating a safe and attentive environment. This setup promotes connection, teamwork, and familiarity — campers eat meals together, participate in activities together, and build a small “family” within the larger camp community.

The cabin experience helps campers develop social confidence and independence, while still offering the reassurance of caring adult support throughout the day and night.

Meals

Camp Harrison provides three nutritious meals daily, served in a communal dining hall. Menus emphasize balance and variety, typically including proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and fresh options. A salad bar or alternative selections are commonly available to ensure children can find food they enjoy.

The camp can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies when notified in advance. Meals are served family-style, with cabin groups sitting together to encourage conversation, connection, and table-side responsibility.

Food service follows health and safety standards, and staff ensure that all campers eat adequately, stay hydrated, and make choices that support their high-energy daily routines.

Safety

Safety is a core priority at Camp Harrison. The camp maintains a strong counselor-to-camper ratio of 1:4, ensuring attentive supervision throughout all activities. Staff members receive training in emergency procedures, child supervision, and risk management. Those working on the lake or pools carry lifeguard certifications.

Before any water activities, campers complete a swim test to determine their personal swim level. Wristbands or other identifiers are often used to help staff easily match campers to appropriate water zones and supervision levels.

Rules and expectations are clearly communicated at the start of each session, and counselors closely monitor daily behavior, activity readiness, hydration, and well-being. The environment balances adventure with thoughtful oversight, helping children explore confidently and safely.

Health & Medicine

A medical professional is present on-site to manage health needs, medications, and minor injuries. All medicines — prescription and over-the-counter — must be checked in upon arrival in their original containers. Except in exceptional pre-approved cases (such as inhalers or EpiPens), medications are stored securely at the health center and dispensed during mealtimes.

Camp staff monitor campers daily for signs of dehydration, sunburn, insect bites, or other common outdoor concerns. Basic first aid is readily available for minor injuries such as scrapes or sprains. More serious medical cases trigger established procedures for outside care if needed.

Parents are informed promptly of any significant illness, injury, or change in the child's health status.

Camp traditions

Camp Harrison embraces traditions that bring campers together and create memories that last for years. Evenings often feature campfires, songs, skits, group games, or reflective cabin time. These rituals help campers unwind, bond, and share their experiences after a full day of activities.

Older campers may participate in leadership development tracks, such as LIT (Leaders in Training), which offer opportunities to guide younger peers and build responsibility.

Daily rhythms — from morning check-ins to nightly cabin gatherings — foster a sense of belonging. This combination of adventure, reflection, and shared community values is a hallmark of the Camp Harrison experience.

The activities program at Camp Harrison blends adventure, nature, sports, and personal development, ensuring campers stay active and engaged. Days are full of movement — from splashing in the lake and conquering the ropes course to team games, creative moments, or quiet reflection in the woods. Campers rotate through a variety of experiences, giving them the chance to discover new interests and push their boundaries in a supportive environment.

Older campers gain additional programming that promotes independence, leadership, and community engagement. The program is built to help every child grow physically, socially, and emotionally while having an unforgettable summer.