Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have lots of questions about summer day camp, and we’ve done our best to answer them. Read about our planned safety protocols, cancellation policy, and other frequently asked questions below. 

Quick Links

When does registration close?

Online weekly camp registration closes two weeks prior to camp start, and in-house registration will close the Wednesday before the camp session. For example, for camp starting on June 22, registration closes in-house on June 17, and online on June 8.

What is the cost of day camp?

The cost of day camp varies by program type.  Learn more about programs here. 

Did you know? Y members save an average of $50 per week on camp fees! Learn more about becoming a member of the Y.

A deposit of $25 per week per camper is due upon registration. Payments are drafted on the Monday two weeks before each camp session. For example, for camp starting on June 22, payment will be drafted on June 8.

How do I register?
  • To register for summer day camp, you will need to log in to your YMCA account or create a new YMCA account. On your first login, you'll create your new account by clicking "Need an Account? Start Here" and follow the onscreen instructions. It's as simple as that!
  • Once you are logged in, use the “Register for Programs” button.
  • Select “Summer Day Camp” from the categories and then select your region, you can register for any camps that your child is eligible for.
  • If you need additional support you may also contact our Registration Team via email at  registrar@whatcomymca.org.
My child has a summer birthday and I'm having trouble signing up, what do I do?

If you are unable to register for a camp that you believe your child is old enough to attend, please call our registration team at 360-255-0585.

Kinders on Their Way Camp: Due to licensing, kids must be five by the first day of their camp session to participate, even if they are entering kindergarten in the fall. 

What are the days and hours of day camp?

Days and hours vary by program type and location. Learn more here.

Do you offer financial assistance?

The Y is committed to ensuring all families access quality and enriching youth programs. We accept Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) and many other subsidies at most Discovery and Kinders on Their Way Camp locations.  

Please complete our financial assistance form to learn more about financial assistance.

Current Before and After-School Enrichment (BASE) and Early Education families who receive financial assistance will not need to reapply for summer programs. 

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

Yes, our Kinders on Their Way and Discovery Camp programs accept third-party subsidies.

  • We cannot accept subsidies for payment for any other camp types based on licensing requirements

For more information on Working Connections Child Care (WCCC), or other third-party subsidy programs, please email us at registrar@whatcomymca.org 

What is your cancellation or change policy?

We’ve updated our cancellation policy for 2026. Key details are below.  Read the full policy here. 

  • Deposits for YMCA Summer Day Camp are non-refundable, but may be transferred to another Day Camp program through August 10th based on availability.
  • All cancellation and change requests must be submitted using the official Change & Cancellation Change Form. 
What should I do if my membership or financial assistance pricing was not applied correctly?

Please email our Registration Team at registrar@whatcomymca.org 

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.

How many staff will be with my child?

Our summer camp programs align with recommendations from both the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), and the American Camping Association (ACA). They may vary based on specific activity or program type but you can expect the following:

  • Ages 3-5 years: 1 counselor per 10 campers
  • Ages 6-12 years: 1 counselor per 12 campers
  • Ages 13+ years: 1 counselor per 15 campers
Where do I drop-off? How do I contact my camp leaders?

Loads of great details about summer day camp will be available in the online Participant Guide in the weeks leading up to camp. 

Does day camp include lunch or snacks?

We provide a morning and afternoon snack each day of all full day camps. We ask that campers bring a non-perishable lunch each day. We will have more guidelines and suggestions for lunch ideas in our upcoming Participant Guide.

What should my child bring to day camp each day?

We’re busy planning a whole new summer adventure for campers across Whatcom County. Check back in April for more details; we look forward to sharing a whole new summer of fun with your camper!

What does a typical day of camp look like?

We’re busy planning a whole new summer adventure for campers across Whatcom County. Check back in April for more details; we look forward to sharing a whole new summer of fun with your camper!

Who can I contact with registration questions?

Please email us at registrar@whatcomymca.org