Entering grades 10-12 in the fall of 2025.Get ready to put skills to the test in this challenging and fun four-week expedition. Our experienced staff will teach advanced boat handling, advanced navigation, and expedition planning. Working as a team, groups will plan their own trip through the San Juan Islands. This trip will challenge perseverance, kayak skills, and leadership abilities. Islander participants will take what they have learned and practice leading their peers at least once as Leader of the Day. Towards the end of the course, participants may also have a solo experience to rest and reflect on their time as an Islander (instructors place and regularly check-in with participants during this time). All participants must demonstrate a wet-exit and re-entry with their paddle partner before embarking on the course. Campers are placed in mixed-gender cabins of campers within the same program and similar age or developmental stage.
*Basic paddling skills recommended but not required.
*Application and interview process required. Accepted applicants will be given registration instructions.
APPLY HERE FOR THE ISLANDERS PROGRAM: Applications Due January 15
We are committed to making YMCA Camping and Outdoor Leadership programs more accessible for everyone. We have lowered our pricing options and developed a voluntary sliding fee schedule. Simply select the price most appropriate for your family. Your selections are completely confidential and do not impact the quality of your camper’s experience. $150 Non-Refundable deposit is required for all registrations and is applied to the total amount due.
Price A reflects the full price of sending a camper to the program selected. This level represents the full price of camp operations, including support for long-term maintenance, repairs, and facility enhancements.
Price B is partially sponsored by funds generously contributed by our supporters to help families unable to afford the full price of the program.
Price C is the lowest price, funded by generous contributions donated by our supporters to the greatest extent possible.
Our goal is to remove barriers that prevent anyone from participating in our programs, including financial barriers. If our lowest prices still create a financial barrier that prevents you from participating in our programs, we invite you to fill out a Financial Assistance Application.Once we have reviewed and approved your application, you will receive an email confirming the percentage you have been awarded. The percentage awarded will automatically be applied to your account and be reflected in your final balance. A $50 deposit will still be required to confirm your reservation.