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The “Magic” of Camp Wapsie Summer Overnight programs has the power to turn the most timid child into the bravest hero. It turns a perfect stranger into the best friend you won’t want to leave at the end of the week.
Campers build lifelong skills through outdoor activities like canoeing, archery, nature hikes, and campfires. Living together and working together helps them learn social and emotional values, which are part of our core values-Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
At Camp Wapsie, our staff members are well-trained in many areas, such as homesickness, CPR, and first aid. Most of the staff are lifeguard certified. Staff take pride in guiding your children through a fun and safe week of challenging, exciting child-centered activities.
Some of the Activities Offered:
- Swimming
- Zip Line
- Guitars
- Fishing
- Burma Bridge
- Canoeing
- Archery
- Outdoor Camp Skills
- Arts & Crafts
- Team Sports
- Climbing
- Zipline(12+)
- Horseback Riding (additional Fee)
- Hiking
- Nature Study
- BB guns or .22 Riflery
- Drama
Camp Wapsie has a store on site where we sell things like pop, candy, chips, popsicles, ice cream and souvenirs. Campers get the chance to go to the store at least 2 times a day. Parents can put money in a store account. We suggest up to $20 -$30.
For your Wapsie Wear, we have an online store that is open 24/7-365 days. We have lots of different products to choose from. This is a great place to get your camp shirts and sweatshirts. Click here to access the online store!
Each camper who is registered for a summer program will need the following forms on file by May 1st. This includes the following:
- Health History
- Letter to My Child’s Counselor
- Camper Release Form
- Store Money Questionnaire
These can be found here: 2023 Summer Overnight Camp Forms
Once filled out, please return to [email protected]
Participate in the annual candy sale to help with costs of summer camp. Every candy item sold earns $0.85 towards camp fees. This happens in February each year to be applied for the following summer. Watch for details in January of 2024.
YMCA Camp Wapsie and the YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metro Area are committed to providing quality programs to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Financial Assistance is subsidized by the YMCA Annual Support Campaign. Click Here for the Application.
Please take time to read the family handbook for detailed information regarding coming to summer camp.
At camp, we call Thursdays Special Day which is Wapsie’s way of saying theme day! Each Thursday has special activities related to the theme of the week. Wapsie transforms into another world with special events, characters and activities to help campers express their creative side. Costumes are welcome but not necessary. Weekly themes for the upcoming year are outlined through the registration process.
Featuring Wapsie Adventure Trips:
Entering 7th-9th Grade
With a new program structure, this trip includes a 3-day, 2-night adventure to Lake MacBride, featuring opportunities to experience camping and outdoor activities on an introductory level. We will cover topics such as: how to set up a tent, what to look for when choosing up a campsite, the Leave No Trace™ principles, and many more skills to set up a future of happy camping. We’ll also visit the beach and waterfront for relaxing yet fun-filled afternoons.
Entering 8th-11th Grades
This 3-day trip from Independence to Central City, along the Wapsipinicon River, lets campers experience a whole new side of Eastern Iowa. While camping alongside the river, participants can look forward to building fires, cooking their own meals outdoors, and learning firsthand wilderness skills, all while forging new friendships and memorable adventures.
Entering 7th-9th Grades
Ever wanted to rock climb? Reach for new heights as we spend a week at Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin, one of the Midwest’s premier climbing spots. It’s perfect for both beginners and veteran climbers. While camping near the Devil’s Lake State Park, campers will spend much of the day at at Devil’s Lake to experience climbing, hiking the trails, check out the picturesque views and swimming at the fun beaches of the 360-acre lake.
Entering 10-12th Grades
Join us for an unforgettable excursion. Enjoy Wisconsin’s beautiful Nicolet National Forest as we camp and spend two days white water rafting down top-rated Class II-IV roaring rapids on the Menominee River and the Peshtigo River with our guides from Wildman Ranch Outfitters. After white-water rafting, we will head to Devil’s Lake State Park to test our climbing skills at one of the best rock-climbing spots in the Midwest. This exciting excursion is for experienced campers.