Is My Child the Right Age for Summer Camp? A Parent’s Guide to Camps in Lynchburg, VA

Summer camp is a rite of passage for many kids, but it often comes with a lot of questions from parents: Is 4 too young? Is 12 too old? What if they’ve never been to camp before? At the Jamerson Family YMCA in Lynchburg, Virginia, summer day camps are built to accommodate a range of age groups, interests, and experience levels, making them the perfect solution for local families seeking enrichment, movement, and meaningful social connections during the summer months.

Whether your child wants to dive into art, sharpen their jump shot, or burn off energy through functional fitness, YMCA of Central Virginia has a mini summer camp that fits the bill. Here’s your complete guide to camp ages, themes, and what makes the Y’s summer day camps a top choice for Lynchburg families.

Spotlight on YMCA of Central Virginia Mini Day Camps

The Jamerson Family YMCA in Lynchburg offers a variety of themed mini camps that cater to different interests and age groups. Here’s what local families can expect in 2025:

Art Camp

Art Camp at Jamerson Family YMCA is for children between the ages of 7 and 12. It runs from June 30 through July 3. Campers will engage in hands-on creative projects that include painting, sculpting, and mixed-media activities. They are encouraged to express themselves through various artistic techniques and build their confidence while bringing home unique masterpieces created throughout the week.

Basketball Camp

Basketball Camp is offered to youth ages 7 to 12 and runs from July 21 to July 24. This camp emphasizes skill development and the importance of teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship. Through drills, guided play, and scrimmages, campers will elevate their understanding of the game while building friendships and having fun.

Pickleball Camp

Open to kids ages 7 to 12, Pickleball Camp runs from June 23 through June 26. As one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., pickleball is a perfect blend of fun and fitness. Campers will learn rules, develop hand-eye coordination, and engage in friendly matches. The structure welcomes newcomers while still being challenging enough to keep returning campers engaged.

CrossFit Kids Camp

Designed for children ages 4 to 10, CrossFit Kids Camp at Jamerson Family YMCA offers two sessions: June 16 through 19 and July 1 through 17. Led by certified CrossFit Kids coaches, campers will enjoy movement-based games focused on fundamental fitness. Activities like jumping, squatting, and lifting are adapted for younger kids and delivered in a playful, game-oriented environment.

DEKA Camp

DEKA Camp is specially tailored for youth ages 10 to 18 and runs from June 9 to 12. This camp introduces participants to DEKA-style functional fitness challenges, combining endurance, strength, and mental focus. For parents who may not be familiar, DEKA is a fitness competition developed by the creators of Spartan Race. It involves ten fitness zones that use simple, scalable movements to test and improve overall functional fitness. The goal is to promote health, resilience, and mental toughness in a supportive and measurable format. The training is designed to help older kids push boundaries, learn discipline, and build athletic resilience in a positive, structured space.

For full program listings and registration, visit the YMCA of Central Virginia Day Camps page.

Who Are These Camps For?

These camps are ideal for a wide range of children in the Lynchburg area. They’re perfect for energetic kids who need an outlet for structured movement, offering activities that keep them engaged and active. They’re also a great fit for young artists who enjoy expressing themselves through creative projects and exploring different forms of art. Kids who are curious about trying new sports or learning more about fitness will find options that challenge and inspire them. Finally, these camps offer peace of mind for families seeking a safe, supportive environment where children can thrive during the summer months.

See what’s new this year in the YMCA’s 2025 Summer Day Camp blog post.

5 Reasons to Enroll Your Child in a YMCA Day Camp

YMCA summer day camps offer far more than just a way to fill the calendar—they’re an investment in your child’s growth and happiness. At the Jamerson Family YMCA in Lynchburg, each camp experience is designed to foster essential life skills, build lasting friendships, and inspire confidence. Whether your child is naturally adventurous or still learning to come out of their shell, camp can help them take meaningful steps forward in a supportive environment. Here are five powerful reasons why families return year after year—and why your child might thrive this summer too.

1. Builds Independence: YMCA day camps give kids a chance to make choices on their own, from deciding what activity to try next to navigating new social situations. Being in a new environment away from parents, even for just a few hours a day, helps them learn how to handle responsibility, take initiative, and develop self-reliance. These experiences lay a strong foundation for future growth both in and outside of school.
2. Encourages Critical Thinking: Camp activities are designed to challenge both the body and the mind. Whether it’s figuring out a game strategy in basketball, choosing how to approach a creative project in art camp, or pacing themselves through a DEKA workout, kids are constantly using problem-solving skills. These hands-on, real-world experiences nurture critical thinking and adaptability. Learn more about how camps support critical thinking development.
3. Promotes Physical Health: With camps like basketball, CrossFit, and pickleball, kids stay active in fun and engaging ways that go beyond traditional exercise. Each camp session includes plenty of movement, which not only supports physical fitness but also boosts mood and energy levels. Regular activity builds strength, coordination, and a lifelong appreciation for health and wellness.
4. Strengthens Social Skills: Summer camp brings kids together in a collaborative setting where teamwork and communication are part of daily life. Whether they’re working together in a relay, sharing art supplies, or encouraging each other during a DEKA challenge, campers build important social skills. These friendships often continue beyond the camp week and help children feel more connected and confident in group settings.
5. Nurtures Creativity and Confidence: Every camp offers kids a chance to try something new—and succeed at it. Whether it’s finishing an art project or mastering a new skill in pickleball, these small victories have a big impact on confidence. Campers are encouraged to express themselves freely, which fuels creativity and helps them take pride in their accomplishments.

A Legacy of Summer Camp at the YMCA

YMCA summer camps date back to 1885, when the first one, Camp Dudley, opened in New York. Originally established as a residential, overnight experience to give boys a chance to build character through nature, play, and community, the concept quickly gained popularity. As the needs of American families evolved, so did the YMCA’s approach to summer camp. In response to growing urbanization and changing work schedules, the Y developed day camp programs—a flexible, community-based solution that allowed children to experience the joys of camp while returning home each evening.

Today, YMCA day camps are a cornerstone of youth development nationwide. These camps are thoughtfully designed to support each child’s physical, emotional, and social needs through structured play, skill-building activities, and positive mentorship. Whether it’s for a few days or an entire summer, YMCA day camps help kids grow in confidence, form lasting friendships, and stay active in a supportive, values-based environment.

Read more about the YMCA’s national history of camp programs here.

Common Questions from Parents

What’s the youngest child accepted?

The youngest campers welcome at Jamerson Family YMCA summer day camps are age 4, specifically through the CrossFit Kids Camp. This program is thoughtfully designed to introduce younger children to physical activity in a safe, play-based format. With age-appropriate exercises and a heavy emphasis on fun, CrossFit Kids Camp is ideal for first-time campers who are building confidence, coordination, and social skills.

What’s the oldest age?

Most camps are structured for children up to age 12. However, the YMCA recognizes that older youth still benefit from summer enrichment, which is why DEKA Camp is open to campers up to age 18. DEKA Camp gives teens an opportunity to challenge themselves physically and mentally while working in a team environment. It’s a great steppingstone for young athletes and active teens who want to stay motivated and strong over the summer.

Do I have to be a member to register?

No, YMCA camps are open to both members and non-members. However, becoming a member offers a range of benefits including discounted camp pricing, access to fitness and aquatic facilities, and year-round programming for the entire family. If you plan on participating in multiple sessions or utilizing other Y services, a membership could be a smart investment.

Can my child attend multiple camps?

Absolutely! Many families take advantage of the variety offered at the Jamerson Family YMCA by enrolling their children in several camps across the summer. Kids can explore different interests like sports, fitness, and art, keeping their weeks fresh and exciting. Multiple sessions also allow children to build friendships and gain deeper experiences through repetition and familiarity.

Are the instructors qualified?

Yes. The YMCA prioritizes safety and child development, which is why all camp staff and instructors are thoroughly trained in youth engagement, CPR/first aid, and YMCA core values. Many coaches and counselors bring years of experience in both teaching and mentoring, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where every child can thrive.

How to Get Started

1. Visit the YMCA Day Camp page
2. Choose your camp(s) and register online
3. Not a member? Join the YMCA to enjoy savings and access to other family programs

This Summer, Let the Y Do the Heavy Lifting

From art supplies to basketballs to barbells, Jamerson Family YMCA in Lynchburg is ready to help your child make this summer memorable, active, and meaningful. Spots fill up quickly, so don’t wait—your child’s next big adventure starts at the Y!