ABOUT OUR CAMP

Safety is our number one priority — from hiring staff to designing new programs to planning staff training. One of the first things we do each session is gather all campers and staff for an orientation on camp rules and expectations. Campers learn to never wander camp alone: everyone travels in a TRUDDIE (a group of three), and every camper shares responsibility for looking out for the emotional and physical safety of one another. Our staff understand their job is not just to lead activities, but to help campers develop life skills while always watching out for their well-being.

Our summer camp staff are hired based on strong character and high ideals, and carefully selected to ensure a diverse group of skilled, responsible people who care about children. Before campers arrive, every staff member trains in safety, counseling techniques, conflict resolution, child development, bullying prevention and camp policies and procedures. All staff undergo extensive background and reference checks before being hired — and every one of them is Red Cross First Aid and CPR certified.

YMCA Camp Benson is proud to offer modern, comfortable overnight camp facilities that keep a rustic camp feel. All of our camper cabins were built in 2011 and 2012, and every cabin is equipped with air-conditioning. Each cabin houses between 8 and 12 campers along with one Teen Leader (an SDP) and at least one staff member, so campers always have support close by. Mattresses are standard twin size — our packing list covers the right bedding to bring.

Every day brings something new. Campers rise and shine at 7:45AM, gather for flag raising and a family-style breakfast, then clean up their cabins before Morning Reflection. Mornings and afternoons are filled with activities, pool time and camp store visits, with a siesta after lunch to recharge. Evenings bring QUEST — cabin-led activities focused on our core values — followed by an evening program, slow songs and daily reflection before lights out. The schedule varies slightly by age and program, with earlier bedtimes for our youngest campers.

The core values are woven into every day. After cabin clean-up, all of camp gathers at the Lookout for Morning Reflection — a story, poem or skit that highlights one of our six core values, challenging campers to think about how they can model it in their own lives. It is one of the most serious and meaningful traditions at camp. In the evening, QUEST gives each cabin time to grow closer as a group while focusing on those same values — trust hikes, games, storytelling and writing skits for the Wednesday Staff and Camper Show.