SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS
When school is out, fun is in at the Y! This fall, we’ve got you covered with single-day and week-long day camp sessions at locations around the county. MEMBERS SAVE UP TO 15% ON DAY CAMPS!
WELCOME TO DAY CAMP
AT South Bay FAMILY YMCA
Your family can count on South Bay Family YMCA to ensure your child is having fun in a safe, nurturing environment. The Y offers single-day, weekly and specialty camps to meet the needs of parents and match the interests of our campers.
Since 1882, our camps have inspired kids with countless opportunities to laugh, lead and make lasting friendships.
FIND YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE!
School Break CAMP SESSIONS
- September 22-26, 2025
- September 29-October 3, 2025
REGISTER TODAY
- Register Online — We have invested in new technology, and signing up online is the best way to secure your top picks. Make sure your new account is ready to register.
- Register in Person — Directions Here
- Register by Phone — (619) 421-9622
MEMBERS SAVE
To receive the Y member rate for any program, your membership must be active throughout the duration of the registered program session(s), otherwise the non-member fee will be applied. Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Y member, and join us today!
Y COMMUNITY PLUS MEMBERSHIP
- Up to 15% off day camp and up to 10% off overnight camp. This rate also applies to active members who have not yet upgraded to one of our new membership plans.
Y COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP
- Up to 10% off day and overnight camps.
TIPS FOR A SMOOTH SIGN-UP
Please note that you must create a My Y account in order to register. If you are new to the Y, you can set up your account now. If you already have an account, please log in prior to registering to make sure your profile is complete with payment method, valid email address, child’s birth date and full name, etc
SAVE TIME WITH SEARCH CODES
When you’re ready to fill your cart, open a tab to our program finder, and log in to your My Y account. Find your camp selections quickly by typing in (or copying/pasting) the SEARCH CODE (e.g. CPTRADEX42).
2025 School Break DAY CAMPS
CAMP INFORMATION
SEARCH CODE
Adventure | AGES 8-13
DATES: September 22-26 | September 29-October 3
A week of non-stop action, creativity, and hands-on fun! Adventure Camp is the ultimate all-in-one experience for curious, active and creative kids. Each day brings a new adventure as campers dive into a dynamic mix of activities — from mastering archery and playing team sports to experimenting in the kitchen and creating awesome art projects. This camp is perfect for kids who love to try new things, make friends and stay on the move.
Art in Nature | AGES 6-12
DATES: September 29-October 3
Campers explore the natural world through hands-on art activities like painting with pinecones and building sculptures with sticks and stones. They’ll enjoy nature walks, collect materials and develop their artistic skills while discovering the beauty around them. Each session combines creativity, discovery and outdoor play to inspire imagination and a connection with nature. Whether your child loves to paint, build or explore, Art in Nature offers something for every young artist.
Backyard Builders | AGES 7-12
DATES: September 29-October 3
Calling all young builders and future engineers! In this camp, imagination meets construction as campers design their own backyard board game. They’ll choose between creating a life-size cornhole or ring toss, using real tools to bring their ideas to life. From drilling and sanding to painting, campers will experience the thrill of building their custom game. Whether it’s the satisfying thunk of a bean bag or the excitement of landing a ring, each camper will leave with a game they made themselves.
PLEASE NOTE: Campers must wear close-toed shoes (no Crocs, sandals or flip-flops). All other safety equipment will be provided.
Baseball | AGES 7-12
DATES: September 22-26
Step up to the plate for a week of baseball fun. Baseball Camp is perfect for young players who want to build skills, boost confidence and have a blast on the field. Whether your child is new to the game or looking to sharpen technique, this camp covers the fundamentals in a fun and supportive environment. Campers will practice hitting, fielding, throwing, base running and game strategy through drills, mini games and team play while learning about teamwork, sportsmanship and the love of the game. Bring your glove, lace up your cleats and get ready to play ball.
CIT Fieldwork | AGES 16-17
DATES: September 22-26 | September 29-October 3
CIT Fieldwork is geared toward teens beginning the transition to becoming camp counselors. They will take on additional responsibilities and meet expectations aligned with those of our staff. Teens will earn school-required volunteer service hours by participating in this program. It’s the perfect opportunity to complete this requirement and make a difference in our camp community!
Club 6/7 | AGES 6-7
DATES: September 22-26 | September 29-October 3
Join our Y day camp for a week of fun with all the onsite activities we have to offer. Campers build self-confidence, make new friends and create lasting memories through sports and games, arts and crafts, science experiments and more. Activities are based on the weekly theme and camper interests. Day campers are divided into small groups by age and take part in activities tailored to their group’s needs and interests.
Creative Arts | AGES 8-13
DATES: September 22-26
For young artists ready to dive deeper into fine arts. This enriching camp is designed for kids who love to create and want to explore techniques and traditions. From drawing and painting to sculpture and mixed media, campers develop skills, express ideas and build confidence as artists. Each day includes hands-on instruction in shading, color theory, composition and perspective, all in a fun, supportive environment that encourages creativity. Whether your child is a budding illustrator or a curious beginner, this camp offers a perfect mix of skill-building and imaginative exploration while connecting with fellow young artists.
DANCE | AGES 6-12
DATES: September 22-26
Get ready to dance and have fun at our Dance Camp! Campers will explore various dance styles while perfecting their technique and coordination. Each day, campers will learn new routines and work together to create a unique choreography. At the end of the week, they’ll showcase their hard work in an exciting performance for family and friends. Join us for a week of movement, creativity and fun!
Dragon Riders | AGES 6-12
DATES: September 29-October 3
Young Vikings-in-training will embark on an epic journey inspired by How to Train Your Dragon. Campers enter a magical land filled with mythical creatures, daring quests and creative challenges. Each day is packed with dragon-themed crafts, team games, obstacle courses, storytelling and imaginative play. Campers will design dragons, build Viking gear, decode ancient runes and explore what it means to be a true dragon rider — brave, kind and full of heart. Whether your child dreams of soaring through the skies or leading their own dragon clan, this camp is the perfect place to spark imagination and adventure.
High Fives | AGE 5
DATES: September 22-26 | September 29-October 3
High Fives Camp is the perfect introduction to the world of camp for our youngest campers! Exclusively for 5-year-olds, this camp is designed with your child’s first camp experience in mind. With a small 1:6 staff-to-camper ratio, your little one will receive personalized attention and care throughout the day. Campers will enjoy a variety of activities that encourage friendship-building, teamwork, and creativity. From fun group games to arts and crafts, each day is filled with opportunities for exploration, laughter, and learning. Whether it’s their first time away from home or just their first camp adventure, High Fives is the ideal place for 5-year-olds to grow, make new friends and have a blast!
Itty Bitty Aquatics | AGES 5-8
DATES: September 22-26
Make a splash this summer with Itty Bitty Aquatics! Each day campers will enjoy a 30-minute swim lesson led by YMCA swim instructors helping them get comfortable in the water, learn to float and master treading water. After lessons campers can dive into the fun with a 45-minute free swim splashing and playing with the entire camp. Beyond the pool campers will enjoy traditional camp favorites like arts & crafts, songs and games. Life jackets may be required during free swim to ensure everyone stays safe while having a blast!
Itty Bitty Disney | AGES 5-8
DATES: September 22-26
Where little imaginations meet big Disney magic. Each day is inspired by beloved Disney characters, stories and songs. From royal adventures with princesses to heroic quests with favorite animated friends, campers explore Disney magic through crafts, games, music, storytelling and imaginative play. Whether your child dreams of castles, talking animals or fairy-tale fun, this camp brings the enchantment of Disney to life in a fun, safe and age-appropriate way.
Itty Bitty Olympics | AGES 5-8
DATES: September 29-October 3
Big fun for little champions. Young athletes will jump, run, toss and laugh their way through a week full of friendly competition and Olympic-inspired games designed just for them. Each day campers participate in age-appropriate challenges that promote teamwork, coordination and confidence in a playful and encouraging environment. From mini obstacle courses to silly relays and creative team events, every camper gets a chance to shine. We’ll celebrate effort, sportsmanship and fun over winning because at Itty Bitty Olympics, everyone goes home a champion.
Little Chefs | AGES 6-8
DATES: September 22-26
Whisk, mix and sprinkle your way into the kitchen. Young food lovers will put on their aprons and dive into fun, hands-on cooking adventures. Campers learn basic skills, explore simple recipes and create delicious snacks and treats while building confidence, teamwork and a love for food. Each day brings a new recipe and a chance to stir up creativity. No prior cooking experience is needed — just curiosity and a big appetite for fun.
LIT Fieldwork | AGES 13-15
DATES: September 22-26 | September 29-October 3
LIT Fieldwork is an opportunity for teens who have successfully completed our training course to use their leadership skills in the field of camp and enjoy the rewards of working with the YMCA’s incredible staff. Teens will experience various camp programs, assist in the daily operations of camp, and receive valuable on-the-job experience that will help build a strong foundation for either a recreational or child care career. Teens will be placed into age-appropriate camps prior to the start of the fieldwork week. Join our team in making a difference in the lives of many young campers this summer while earning school-required or volunteer service hours.
Music & Movement | AGES 6-8
DATES: September 29-October 3
Feel the beat, move your feet. Kids will explore rhythm, sound and self-expression through a joyful blend of music, dance and creative movement. Campers will sing, play instruments, dance to fun beats and learn how music and motion work together to tell stories and spark imagination. Each day is filled with energetic activities that build coordination, listening skills and confidence in a playful, encouraging environment where every child can shine.
SPLASH | AGES 8-12
DATES: September 29-October 3
This wet, wild and fun camp is sure to keep your little fishies busy! Campers will enjoy a fun-filled, jam-packed swimming lesson with outstanding YMCA-certified lifeguards, followed by an extended swim time full of splishing, splashing and sploshing! Campers will also participate in fun water activities on-site at the Y. When the children are not in the pool, they are having a blast participating in other camp activities such as arts and crafts, games, songs, sports and more.
About Us
Our Branch
South Bay Family YMCA
Address: 1201 Paseo Magda, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Phone: (619) 421-9622
Camp Locations and Hours of Operation
Veterans Elementary School
Address: 1550 Magdalena Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91913
South Bay Teen Center
Address: 820 Paseo Ranchero, Chula Vista, CA 91910
School Break Day Camps
Camp Hours:
- Full-day: 7:30am–5:00pm
- Drop-off: 7:30–9:00am
- Pick-up: 3:30–5:00pm
SUMMER DAY CAMPS
Camp Hours:
- Full-day: 8:00am–4:00pm
- Drop-off: 7:30–9:00am
- Pick-up: 3:30–5:00pm
Directors and Supervisors
Kyle Millard | Camp Director
jmillard@ymcasd.org
Erilyn Merino | Camp Coordinator
emerino@ymcasd.org
About Our Staff
South Bay Family YMCA takes pride in hiring the best people to fill our camp staff. Each camp leader was hand-selected through an extensive hiring process to ensure the safest environment for everyone. Staff training includes CPR and First Aid certification, transportation safety, behavior management and bully prevention, child protection and abuse prevention, field trip and off-site safety procedures, risk management/prevention and more.
PAYING FOR CAMP
- Pay in full (includes a $60 non-refundable deposit).
- Place a $60 non-refundable deposit at the time of registration. Deposit discounts may apply based on membership type.
- Note: any day camps less than three days will have no deposit and will require to be paid in full at time of registration.
- For Summer sessions, balances will be due three weeks prior to the first day of camp.
- For school break camps, balance dues will be one week before the camp date.
- An active membership is required at the time of the program start date to receive the member pricing discount.
- Financial assistance is available through the Y’s ACCESS scholarship program or through third party payment support.
Deposits are non-refundable but can be immediately applied as a deposit for another camp if space is available or applied to an already existing camp balance within the same season. See our Refund/Voucher/Transfer Policies for more information.
Here's what our parents tell us:
"My child came home so happy and didn’t want to leave at the end of the day. He said it was the best camp EVER and loved all his camp counselors!"
REQUIRED FORMS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DOCUMENTS
Day Camp Parent Manual
Check out our Day Camp Parent Manual for easy reference on what to expect and how to best prepare your camper for day camp. Additional information can be found on the YMCA of San Diego County Day Camp page.
UPDATED SAFETY GUIDELINES:
Your family’s safety is our top priority. We have implemented safety protocols that follow state and local guidelines. It’s our priority to help your children enjoy a safe and fun program that builds lasting friendships.
Medical Release Form - Required
Vendor Waivers
ADAPTIVE CAMP
Our Adaptive Camp Program is a designed to support youth with behavioral and developmental needs as it adapts the camp experience to your child’s needs and abilities, allowing opportunities for all campers to learn new skills, form new friendships and create lifetime memories. Campers will participate in activities with our traditional and specialty camps based on their interests at a pace that works for them. Our smaller camper-to-staff ratio for Adaptive Camp supports positive inclusion and/or one-on-one support as needed. Space is limited.
PLEASE NOTE: Contact the Camp Director and/or Coordinator to initiate an enrollment request and help us prepare a great experience for your camper. We begin accepting enrollment requests on March 4, 2024 and strive to provide at least one week of camp to all interested families.
Camp Scholarships
Financial assistance is available to families who qualify. Applications are available at the service desk and online. Assistance is based on verified income and completed applications.
More Policies
For more information about YMCA Day Camp policies, expectations and helpful information, visit our Day Camp Policy page.
Giving Back
For every session of camp, the Y provides program scholarships for families seeking financial assistance. This is made possible through the generosity of our community. If you wish to help a child go to camp, please see our Camp Director for information.
Feedback
We love to hear from our campers and parents! Camp leadership teams use your feedback to make positive changes to our program. Please feel free to contact at SBDayCamp@ymcasd.org with any questions, comments or concerns!