Find Your Spark

Art, science, storytelling, and outdoor play the Y way will ignite the sense of wonder in every camper. In small group settings, caring Y staff lead lively group games, exciting excursions, and super-sized summer fun that will help campers make fast friends, develop skills, and discover what they love!

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Find the Info You Need to Know

Learn more about Discovery Camp hours, registration, financial aid, and fees below. Read the complete list of answers to Summer Day Camp Frequently Asked Questions here.

What days and hours is Discovery Camp offered?

Discovery Camp runs Monday–Friday from 9:00 am–4:00 pm. There are a few shorter three-day weeks due to holidays and school schedules.

We also offer Extended Camp at no additional cost to participants in Discovery Camp which consists of supervised activities and structured programs​ before and after the camp day. 

Hours for Extended Camp start at 7:30 am and end at 5:30 pm. You do not need to register separately for Extended Camp.

Important Dates

  • There is no camp July 4 or 5 for all programs.
  • There is no camp August 29 or 30 for all programs.
  • For camps in the Edmonds and Northshore School Districts, programs start June 26.
  • For camps in the Kent School District, programs end August 16. 
  • For camps in the Lake Washington, Shoreline, and Snoqualmie Valley School Districts, programs end August 23.
Is my child the right age for Discovery Camp?

If your child is entering grades 1 to 5 in the fall, then yes, they can be a Discovery Camp camper! 

If your child turns six after June 24 and you would like to sign them up, you will need to contact our registration team for an age override, as our system recognizes ages by the start of all summer programs on June 24 rather than specific weekly camp sessions. Please call (206) 382-5022 and press three for support.

For programs in the Edmonds School District at Chase Lake Elementary, Discovery Camp serves kids entering grades 1 to 6 in the fall based on the grades served by their elementary schools. 

How soon can I sign my camper up for Discovery Camp?

Registration for day camp will open in February as follows:

  • February 1 at 6:00 am: 2023 Day Camp participants, current YMCA Before & After-School Enrichment participants, and current YMCA Early Education participants
  • February 6 at 6:00 am: Facility Members of the YMCA of Greater Seattle
  • February 13 at 6:00 am: Open to all, including interest list

Weekly camp registration closes on the Wednesday before the camp session at 5:00 pm. For example, for camp starting on July 8, registration would close on July 3 at 5:00 pm.

Does the Y offer financial assistance for Discovery Camp?

Yes, the Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. The Y provides financial assistance and a sliding fee schedule.

Please complete this short two-minute form to learn more about financial assistance. Our staff will contact you within 3-5 business days once the form is received. 

Can I use a third-party subsidy to help pay for day camp?

Yes, many of our Kids on Their Way and Discovery camps accept third-party subsidies. 

For more information on Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) or other third-party subsidy programs, please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call (206) 382-5022 and press three for support. 

What is the fee to participate in Discovery Camp?
  • Five-day weekly fees: $335 for Facility Members or $385 for Community Members
  • Three-day weekly fees: $200 for Facility Members or $240 for Community Members (only for short weeks due to holidays and school schedules, as indicated above)

A deposit of $15 per week per camper is due upon registration. Payments will be drafted on the Saturday two weeks before each camp session. For example, for camp starting on July 8, payment will be drafted on June 30.

The Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. The Y provides financial assistance and a sliding fee schedule. Please complete this short two-minute form to learn more about financial assistance. Our staff will contact you within 3-5 business days once the form is received. 

What happens if there are school schedule changes from snow or strike days?

We recognize that these schedules are ever evolving.  We will adjust camp program dates and fees if needed and communicate any changes with you. Thanks for your patience and flexibility.

What can I expect this summer for field trips at this camp?

We plan to offer field trips to enrichment activities, local parks, and beaches.

What is your cancellation or change policy?

For cancellations, changes, or transfers, we require written notice via this form by end of day on Wednesday, 12 days prior to the start of the session week. For example, for camp starting on July 15, cancellations must be made by July 3.

Camp deposits are non-refundable and may not be transferred to account balances except for other camp programs. The Y reserves the right to charge a $25 fee for multiple registration changes. No refunds or credits will be given for absences, withdrawals, disciplinary suspensions, or removal of a camper.

Failure to complete requirements for attendance, including paperwork and payment, that result in days missed from camp will not be refunded or credited.

Weekly day camp fees will not be pro-rated, refunded, or credited for missed days of camp in a week. 

Who can I contact with registration questions?

Please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call (206) 382-5022 and press three. Our registration team is available between the hours of 7:00 am–5:00 pm, Monday–Friday.

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Great Summers Start at the Y

Join the Y

The Y is where families thrive, communities come together, and whole person health is achieved - for all. Join today and enjoy discounted members-only rates for day camp, swim lessons, and sports!

Overnight Camp

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Boys & Girls Outdoor Leadership Development expeditions inspire youth ages 11 to 18 to be their most courageous and confident selves as they learn new skills, make lifelong friends, and run towards adventure.

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