Today's Opportunity

For more than a century the YMCA has created life changing outdoor experiences for young people and their families. We acknowledge that the environment is under threat. Climate change is most negatively impacting the communities with the lowest carbon footprint, and those furthest from opportunity. We understand that BIPoC youth, who experience marginalization due to race and other oppressed intersections, have faced multiple barriers in accessing culturally responsive outdoor education. Building on our historic strength, the new Mineral Lake Camp and Outdoor Environmental and Education Center will enable the Y to expand our impact to communities not currently served while developing future generations of youth and families more deeply connected to the great outdoors.

We Need You to Help Realize this Vision

Purchasing 500 acres on the shores of Mineral Lake, near Mt. Rainier, in fall of 2021, secured the central camp. Now we need to secure the remaining 1,600 acres expanding from the original 500, committing the full 2,100 acres to Y stewardship. (Download Full Case for Support)

  • Ensure a natural, forested buffer surrounding the central camp property, and protect the land from logging and future development.
  • Enable expansion of youth leadership development through Y wilderness exploration, develop deeper understanding and appreciation of indigenous cultures, and create environmental education programming for youth of all ages.
  • Allow the Y to expand outdoor programming to youth, families, and school districts not currently well served by the existing resident camp properties.
Phase 1 Acquire Initial Land of 500 Acres Completed 9/2021 $5M $14M
Phase 2 Acquire 1,600 acres Funds needed by 9/2022 $7M
Phase 3 Master Plan Development Fall 2022-2023 $2M
  Launch Initial Program Use Spring/Summer 2023 $1M $36M
Phase 4 Infrastructure Investment 2023 to 2032 $10M
Phase 5 Central Camp Facilities Developed $25M
TOTAL FUNDING REQUIRED $50M
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Invest in the Future of Our Youth and Our Natural Environment

Camp and outdoor education make a difference in the lives of youth and families. Please join us in realizing this significant opportunity that will serve youth, families, and the environment for generations to come.

Donate Today
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Questions?

Contact us to learn more about the Y at Mineral Lake or to set up a meeting with Tara Jones, SVP and Chief Philanthropy and Experience Officer. Learn more by downloading the full Case for Support.

Contact Us

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More Outdoor Programs at the Y

Camp Colman

Camp Colman has offered kids and teens the chance to explore their individuality, become a part of their own community, and enjoy the classic American camp experience of archery, rock climbing, and s’mores over the campfire.

Camp Orkila

Explore the magic of Camp Colman and Camp Orkila through water activities, challenge course experiences, campfires, and more while getting to spend quality time with your loved ones.

Teen Outdoor Leadership

Youth ages 11 to 18 are inspired to be their most courageous and confident selves as they explore some of the most beautiful and natural places in the Pacific Northwest. Through BOLD & GOLD expeditions, young people spend weeks in the wilderness, learning life skills, strength, teamwork and more.

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