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Welcome to Resident Camp

Resident Camp at Camp Jorn YMCA blends classic camp traditions with values-driven growth. Campers choose three instructional classes for the week (skill progression is the goal) and round out days with cabin activities like canoeing, sailing, team challenges, sports, and more. Evenings bring everyone together for all-camp campfires, skits, and group games. Many cabin groups also enjoy a cookout or overnight on/near camp.

Our Goals:

  • Build personal growth and independence through positive risk-taking and success

  • Strengthen relationships and a sense of community

  • Practice the Y core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility—and develop compassion, contribution, commitment, and character

Resident Camp Overview
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Readiness & safety

Staff partner with families to ensure the right program fit. Some classes (e.g., waterskiing, sailing) require swim ability; swimming levels are assessed day one. Properly sized safety and program equipment is provided.

Programs & Sessions

Core Overnight Programs

Discovery Camp
(Ages 8–14, 1 week)

Camp Jorn YMCA provides a safe, positive environment where campers grow in our four core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Each week, campers choose three instructional classes and enjoy activities like sailing, archery, sports, and crafts. Evenings feature all-camp games and campfires, with each cabin group taking part in a cookout or overnight on or near Camp Jorn.

LIT—Leaders in Training
(Ages 15–16)

Camp Jorn’s LIT program helps campers build cooperation, confidence, and leadership skills through hands-on activities, group discussions, and service projects. Participants live in platform tents, follow a semi-traditional camp schedule, and take part in a 4–5 day wilderness trip.

Explorer Camp
(Ages 10–14, 2 weeks)

During this two-week session, campers follow the traditional Discovery schedule with a special weekend to connect the weeks. Each cabin takes part in a 2–4 day overnight hiking or canoe trip in the Northwoods, a tech-free experience that builds outdoor skills, confidence, and meaningful connections.

CIT—Counselors in Training
(Ages 16–17)

The CIT program prepares teens to become future camp counselors by developing leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Participants shadow counselors, engage in CIT-specific activities, and take part in wilderness trips—6 days and 5 nights for 3-week CITs, or shorter trips for 2-week CITs—fostering resilience and outdoor skills. Entry is competitive, requiring an application, two references, and a brief interview. Accepted applicants will be notified by February 16, and registration opens December 2.

TEVA
(Ages 13–14)

TEVA is a co-ed leadership program for young teens, focusing on Teamwork, Education, Values, and Adventure. Participants join the regular camp schedule while engaging in team-building, self-discovery, and new experiences. Living in Yurt Village, campers form strong connections and put their skills to the test on a 4-day Chain of Lakes canoe trip and the TEVA Challenge.

Outpost
(Ages 12–15)

Camp Jorn’s Outpost program challenges campers with extended, tech-free wilderness adventures that build resilience, teamwork, and communication. Participants learn basic wilderness skills at camp before embarking on a 3-night excursion featuring whitewater rafting on the Menominee River, rock climbing in the Iron Mountains, and a multi-line zip line canopy tour—all guided by professionals for a safe, thrilling experience.

Specialty Camps

Waterski
(Ages 12-15)

Get ready for sunny days behind the boat on glassy Rest Lake! The CJ Water Skiing Specialty Camp is designed for adventurous campers and experienced water skiers. Extended skiing time each day will allow skiers to level up! This crew will work together as a team to practice a variety of disciplines, such as: slalom skiing, trick skiing, wakeboarding, barefooting and more! We will continue a partnership with the Manitowish Waters Skiing Skeeters by joining some of their practices and being involved in one or more of their beloved ski shows!

Sailing
(Ages 11–14)

Ahoy sailors! There’s no feeling quite like catching the perfect gust and skimming across Rest Lake in Camp Jorn’s Sunfish sailboats. CJ’s Sailing Specialty program is designed for adventurous campers of any skill level who are interested in or passionate about sailing. Campers will enjoy an extended period of sailing instruction and practice each day, from Camp Jorn’s most beautiful docks, at the tip of the peninsula overlooking our own Fox Island. This group will enjoy a 2-night camping trip to the Apostle Islands as well.

fishing
(Ages 11–14)

Fishing Specialty Campers will enjoy a significant amount of time fishing for pike, crappie and walleye on our very own Rest Lake. The session will include a two-night camping trip in the beautiful Apostle Islands, to include a fishing charter with Superior Sport Fishing! Advanced campers will improve their skills and learn to teach others. Beginners will learn basic fishing skills like tying their own lines, baiting hooks, casting, reeling in a “big one”! Staff will share the joy of fishing with youth while teaching them the value of patience. Fishing campers will also take part in the traditional Camp Jorn afternoon and evening activities.

outpost
(Ages 12-15)

Camp Jorn’s Outpost program offers extended, tech-free wilderness adventures that build resilience, teamwork, and outdoor skills. Campers learn wilderness living at camp before a 3-night trip featuring whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and a zip line canopy tour, all guided by professionals for a safe and thrilling experience.

pathfiner
(Ages 12–15)

Join us for a 4-day, 3-night backpacking adventure in the Porcupine Mountains. For youth ages 12-15! **Please reach out to lauren@campjornymca.org to discuss parent & family lodging options during this session!

Mountain Biking
(Session 1 Ages 13–15 | Session 2 10-12)

Campers spend mornings mastering mountain biking, including bike maintenance, skills courses, and trail riding, with day trips to WinMan Trails. Afternoons offer free time for other camp activities. Bikes and helmets can be rented or campers may bring their own (transportation not provided). Two sessions are available: one for experienced riders and one for beginners.

Additional Add-Ons

Waterski Class
(Ages 10+, 4–5 lessons, weather permitting)

$200; swim 100 ft + tread 2.5 min required. Beginner to advanced progression with professional equipment (boom bar).

Dates, Rates & Availability

Sessions Dates Age Range Rate
Discovery June 21-26 8-14 $ 1,000.00
June 28-July 3 8-14 $ 1,000.00
August 9-14 8-14 $ 1,000.00
Explorer Camp July 12-24 10-14 $ 1,800.00
July 26-August 7 10-14 $ 1,800.00
TEVA June 21-July 3 13-14 $ 2,000.00
July 12-24 13-14 $ 2,000.00
July 26-August 7 13-14 $ 2,000.00
LIT July 12-24 15-16 $ 2,000.00
July 26-August 7 15-16 $ 2,000.00
CIT June 21-July 9 16-17 $ 2,500.00
July 12-24 16-17 $ 2,000.00
July 26-Aug 14 16-17 $ 2,500.00
Mountain Biking Specialty Camp July 26-August 7 13-15 $ 2,200.00
August 9-14 10-12 $ 1,100.00
Sailing Specialty Camp July 12-24 11-14 $ 2,200.00
Ski Specialty Camp July 26-Aug 14 12-15 $ 2,900.00
Fishing Specialty Camp July 12-24 11-14 $ 2,200.00
Outpost June 21-26 12-15 $ 1,300.00
June 28-July 3 12-15 $ 1,300.00
August 9-14 12-15 $ 1,300.00
Pathfinder August 23-28 12-15 $ 1,000.00

Scholarships: Every child should have the chance to enjoy the magic of Camp Jorn. To support families of all backgrounds, we offer both scholarships and fundraising opportunities. Click here for more details on how we can help make camp possible for your family.

Health & Safety

If your child has a health condition requiring special care (e.g., anaphylaxis, severe asthma, seizures, diabetes, ADHD, autism, or other exceptional needs), please contact our Operations Director, Lauren Heger, or our CEO, Katy Bost, as soon as possible to review their health history and ensure Camp Jorn can safely meet their needs.

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Transportation

Fee: $220 round trip, $110 one way.
Stops
  • Gurnee, IL:
    Warren Township High School (500 N O’Plaine Rd)
  • Kenosha, WI:
    Kenosha YMCA (7101 53rd St)
  • DeForest, WI:
    DeForest Park & Ride (5012 Elephant Trail)
(See departure/arrival schedules; spaces are limited.)

Payments, Refunds & Financial Support

Deposit: $150 non-refundable per week due at registration.

Final balance: Due June 5th

Credit Card (auto-charge): Default Card on file will automatically be charged the balance due on June 5th.

Installment Plan by Credit Card (auto charge) Automatic charges on 1/29, 2/27, 3/27, 4/30, with the final payment on June 5. To help support Camp Jorn as a nonprofit, a small 3% fee is added to credit card payments.

Check/Other: By selecting this payment method, you are responsible for submitting your payment in full by June 5. Please note, campers will not be able to attend until the balance has been paid in full.

Refunds/Cancellations:

Deposit non-refundable.

Balance refundable if canceled ≥4 weeks before session start (medical exceptions considered). Changes must be requested in writing/email to the office.

Important: Camp fees are non-refundable and will not be prorated for early dismissal due to behavior issues.

Earn Your Way:

Refer-A-Friend: $75 discount per new camper.

Fundraising: Camp Jorn offers optional fundraising opportunities with partners like Meadow Farms and Flower Power. Families can earn funds toward their camper balance, with all proceeds going directly to their child’s camp experience. Click here for more information. 

Forms & Deadlines

All forms are due by May 18. Most are completed in your online account; some may be downloaded and uploaded. Required items include:

  • Health History & Immunization Record

    (Parents/guardians must complete and sign the Health History & Immunization form for campers under 18. All campers and staff must meet Wisconsin school vaccine requirements. Exemptions may be allowed for medical, religious, or personal reasons, but may be restricted during outbreaks. Fax immunization record to 608-901-0593)

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  • Resident Camp Letter to the Counselor

    (share camper’s needs, challenges, and camper’s own thoughts.)

  • Authorized Grown-Ups

    (who can pick up at bus/camp; valid photo ID; no release under age 18 or under the influence)

  • Transportation Form

    (choose arrival/departure method (car or bus); bus spots limited.)

  • Front/Back of Health Insurance Card

    (for clinic/hospital billing; campers without insurance must have a waiver on file)

  • Camper Photo

    (for identification/emergency use)

  • ANTI BULLYING & BEHAVIOR AGREEMENT

    (The camper and parent/guardian must sign Camp Jorn Anti-Bullying and Behavior agreement prior to attending a session. Please go over the details of this agreement carefully with your camper.)

  • Download: Resident Camp 2026 Parent Handbook

Important Health Note:

If your child has a health condition requiring special care (e.g., anaphylaxis, severe asthma, seizures, diabetes, ADHD, autism, or other exceptional needs), please contact our Operations Director, Lauren Heger, or our CEO, Katy Bost, as soon as possible to review their health history and ensure Camp Jorn can safely meet their needs.

Parent Handbook

Everything families need to know before camp begins.

Inside the Parent Handbook you’ll find:

  • Daily schedule and sample activities

  • Packing lists and clothing recommendations

  • Drop-off and pick-up procedures

  • Camper behavior expectations and conflict resolution approach

  • Health and safety policies

  • Weather, water, and emergency protocols

  • Communication details and contact information

Download or view the Resident Camp Parent Handbook (PDF) before your camper’s first day.

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Camper Eligibility

(Readiness)

Campers must, at a developmentally appropriate level: communicate needs in English; understand directions; refrain from unsafe behaviors (incl. self-harm); identify/avoid risks; feel comfortable in a rustic environment; manage terrain and distances; handle sensory load (esp. dining hall); manage hygiene independently; and engage safely/respectfully in groups of 6–10 peers.

Camper-to-staff ratios:

8:1

(ages 8–16 overnight)

10:1

(leadership 13–17)

Cabin Life, Meals & Technology Policy

Cabin 1
Cabins & Meals:

Rustic cabins/yurts by age and gender identity; two trained counselors per cabin; balanced, hearty meals family-style; campers rotate “Hopper” duties for meal setup/cleanup. Dietary needs accommodated with advance notice.

No Tech 1
Cell Phone & Electronics:

Camp Jorn is a tech-free camp, and all electronic devices—including cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches—must be left at home so campers can fully connect with nature, friends, and themselves.

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Camp Trading Post

(On-Site Store)

CJ gear (tees, sweatshirts, bottles, stickers, hats, mugs, flashlights) + limited snacks (daily snack limits apply). Recommended deposit: $40–$60 per week (loaded via Camp InTouch; refunds issued in fall for balances $10+). No cash with campers, please.

(Tip: if funding multiple siblings back-to-back, vary the amounts slightly to avoid duplicate-charge declines.)

A Sample Day at Camp Jorn

8:15 AM Flagpole / Hoppers Depart 3:15-3:45 PM Free Time
8:30 AM Breakfast 4:45-5:45 PM Cabin Activity 2
9:00 AM Cabin Clean Up 5:45-6:00 PM Flagpole/ Hoppers Depart
9:30–12:20 PM Class 1–3 (with brief transitions) 6:00-6:45 PM Dinner
12:30–1:10 PM Lunch 6:45-7:20 PM Trails
1:10–1:50 PM Rest Hour  7:30 PM Camp Fire
1:55-3:10 PM Cabin Activity 1 9:00-10:00 PM Back to Cabins/Lights Out