Nestled amidst the serene wilderness of Deckers, Colorado, Camp Shady Brook YMCA stands as a beacon of adventure and community in the Rocky Mountain region. Located in the heart of the Pike National Forest, their campsite is surrounded by towering pine trees, pristine streams, and breathtaking vistas, offering an unparalleled backdrop for transformative experiences.

Since its inception, Camp Shady Brook YMCA has been a cornerstone of youth development and outdoor education. Their rich history is woven with the stories of countless campers who have discovered their passions, forged lifelong friendships, and embraced the wonders of nature within their welcoming embrace.

At Camp Shady Brook YMCA, their mission is to empower youth to reach their full potential through immersive outdoor experiences, character development, and inclusive community engagement. Guided by the principles of the YMCA, they strive to foster personal growth, leadership skills, and environmental stewardship in every camper who graces their grounds.

As an inclusive and diverse camp, they welcome boys and girls from various backgrounds and age groups, providing tailored programs and activities to suit their individual interests and developmental needs. Whether navigating scenic trails, conquering high ropes courses, or gathering around the campfire under the starlit sky, every moment at Camp Shady Brook YMCA is infused with joy, learning, and endless possibilities.

Join us in the heart of Colorado’s wilderness, where adventure awaits and memories are made to last a lifetime. They come to Camp Shady Brook YMCA – where nature’s wonders inspire, and friendships flourish.

Programs Offered by Camp Shady Brook YMCA

At Camp Shady Brook YMCA, they offer a diverse range of programs designed to foster personal growth, build character, and instill a love for the outdoors. Their programs are carefully crafted to cater to the interests and developmental needs of campers of all ages and backgrounds.

Length of Sessions: Their camp sessions vary in length to accommodate different schedules and preferences. Campers can choose from one-week, two-week, or full-summer sessions, allowing for flexible participation throughout the season.

Specialty Programs: In addition to their traditional outdoor adventure and leadership development programs, Camp Shady Brook YMCA offers specialty programs that allow campers to explore specific interests in depth. These include:

Arts and Crafts: Campers unleash their creativity through a variety of artistic endeavors, from painting and pottery to theater and music.
Sports and Recreation: From basketball and soccer to hiking and archery, their sports programs promote teamwork, skill development, and a love for physical activity.
Science and Nature Exploration: Campers delve into the wonders of the natural world through hands-on experiments, guided hikes, and interactive lessons on ecology, wildlife, and conservation.

Typical Daily Schedule: A typical day at Camp Shady Brook YMCA is filled with adventure, learning, and fun-filled activities. While each day may vary depending on the program and age group, a sample schedule might include:

Morning Wake-Up and Breakfast
Cabin Clean-Up and Morning Meeting
Morning Activity Sessions (e.g., outdoor skills, team-building challenges)
Lunch and Rest Period
Afternoon Specialty Programs (e.g., arts and crafts, sports, science)
Free Time for Recreation and Exploration
Dinner and Evening Campfire Activities (e.g., skits, songs, storytelling)
Reflection Time and Lights Out

Their daily schedules are designed to balance structured programming with opportunities for self-directed exploration and social interaction, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and rewarding experience at Camp Shady Brook YMCA.

Accommodations in Camp Shady Brook YMCA

Sleeping Arrangements: Camp Shady Brook YMCA provides comfortable and secure sleeping arrangements amidst the natural beauty of Deckers, Colorado. Campers typically stay in rustic yet cozy cabins nestled among the pine trees. Their cabins are equipped with bunk beds and ample storage space, providing a home away from home for campers to rest and recharge after a day of adventure.

For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, they also offer tent camping options. Campers can pitch their tents in designated camping areas, allowing them to connect with nature while still enjoying the camaraderie of camp life.

Dining Options: They believe that good food is essential for fueling adventure and fostering community spirit. At Camp Shady Brook YMCA, campers are treated to delicious and nutritious meals prepared by their experienced culinary team. They offer meal plans that include three hearty meals a day, as well as snacks to keep campers energized throughout their adventures.

They understand that dietary needs vary, which is why they strive to accommodate special dietary requirements and allergies. Their dining staff works closely with campers and their families to ensure that everyone can enjoy meals safely and comfortably, with options available for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary preferences.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Camp Shady Brook YMCA prioritizes the comfort and hygiene of their campers with modern bathroom and shower facilities conveniently located throughout the campsite. Their restroom facilities are well-maintained and equipped with flush toilets and sinks, while their shower facilities offer hot water and privacy for campers to freshen up after a day of outdoor adventures.

They understand that personal hygiene is essential for camper well-being, and their staff takes pride in ensuring that their bathroom and shower facilities meet the highest standards of cleanliness and accessibility for all campers.

At Camp Shady Brook YMCA, they strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment where campers can relax, recharge, and create lasting memories amidst the beauty of the Colorado wilderness.

Activities in Camp Shady Brook YMCA

List of Activities Offered: Camp Shady Brook YMCA offers a wide array of exciting activities designed to engage campers and foster personal growth in the great outdoors. Some of the activities they offer include:

Swimming and Water Sports: Summer camps can cool off and have fun in their swimming pool, or try their hand at kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on nearby lakes and rivers.
Hiking and Nature Exploration: Guided hikes through scenic trails allow campers to connect with nature, learn about local flora and fauna, and appreciate the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Arts and Crafts: Creative souls can unleash their imaginations through various arts and crafts projects, including painting, pottery, jewelry-making, and more.
Sports and Recreation: From team sports like basketball and soccer to individual activities like archery and rock climbing, their sports programs promote teamwork, skill development, and a love for physical activity.
Campfires and Evening Activities: Special evenings are filled with campfire songs, skits, storytelling, and other traditional campfire activities that foster camaraderie and create lasting memories.
Outdoor Skills: Campers can learn valuable outdoor skills such as fire-building, orienteering, wilderness survival techniques, and Leave No Trace principles.

Special Events or Traditions: Camp Shady Brook YMCA is rich with special events and traditions that add excitement and meaning to the camp experience. Some of their beloved traditions include:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: Campers come together at the beginning and end of each session for special ceremonies that mark the beginning and conclusion of their camp journey.
Theme Days: Throughout the summer, they host themed days and events that add an extra layer of fun and creativity to the camp experience, such as Hawaiian Luau Day, Superhero Day, or Wild West Day.
Camp-wide Games and Challenges: Friendly competitions and team-building challenges bring campers together for laughter, excitement, and a sense of shared accomplishment.

Skill Development Opportunities: Camp Shady Brook YMCA is dedicated to providing campers with opportunities for skill development and personal growth in a supportive and nurturing environment. Their experienced staff members offer guidance and instruction in various activities, allowing campers to build confidence, develop new talents, and explore their interests. Whether mastering a new swim stroke, conquering a climbing wall, or creating a masterpiece in the art studio, campers are encouraged to challenge themselves and embrace the spirit of adventure at Camp Shady Brook YMCA.

The staff of Camp Shady Brook YMCA

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: At Camp Shady Brook YMCA, the safety and well-being of their campers are their top priorities. To ensure personalized attention and supervision, they maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio. Their dedicated staff members are committed to creating a supportive and enriching environment where every camper can thrive. The exact staff-to-camper ratio may vary depending on the age group and specific activities, but they always strive to provide ample supervision and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications: Camp Shady Brook YMCA takes great care in selecting and training its staff members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and integrity. Their hiring process includes comprehensive background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure that each staff member is well-suited for their role.

Their staff members come from diverse backgrounds and possess a variety of skills and qualifications relevant to their positions. Many of their staff members have previous experience working with children in camp, educational, or recreational settings. They value enthusiasm, creativity, and a passion for outdoor education and youth development in their staff members.

Training and Certifications: Prior to the start of each camp season, all staff members undergo extensive training to prepare them for their roles and responsibilities. Their training programs cover a wide range of topics, including:

Child safety and protection protocols
Behavior management strategies
Emergency procedures and crisis management
Camp policies and procedures
Team-building and communication skills

In addition to general training, staff members receive certifications in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid to ensure that they are prepared to respond effectively to any medical emergencies that may arise during camp activities. They also provide opportunities for staff members to pursue additional certifications and professional development opportunities relevant to their roles, such as lifeguard certification or wilderness first aid training.

By investing in the ongoing training and professional development of their staff members, Camp Shady Brook YMCA ensures that their team is well-equipped to provide a safe, supportive, and enriching experience for every camper who walks through their doors.

Safety and Health in Camp Shady Brook YMCA

Safety Protocols and Procedures: At Camp Shady Brook YMCA, the safety and well-being of their campers are paramount. They maintain rigorous safety protocols and procedures to ensure a secure environment for all participants. Some of their key safety measures include:

Comprehensive staff training on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk management.
Regular inspections of facilities, equipment, and activity areas to identify and address potential hazards.
Implementation of age-appropriate rules and guidelines to promote safe behavior during activities and free time.
Supervised by qualified staff members during all camp activities, including swimming, hiking, and adventure courses.
Strict adherence to industry standards and best practices for outdoor education and recreational programming.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff: Camp Shady Brook YMCA is equipped with on-site health facilities and trained medical staff to address the health needs of their campers and staff members. Their health center is staffed by licensed medical professionals who are available to provide first aid, administer medications, and assess and treat minor injuries and illnesses. In the event of more serious medical issues, they have protocols in place to coordinate with local emergency services and transport individuals to nearby medical facilities, if necessary.

Policies on Handling Emergencies: In the event of an emergency, Camp Shady Brook YMCA has established protocols and procedures to ensure a prompt and coordinated response. Their staff members are trained to respond quickly and effectively to a wide range of emergency situations, including medical emergencies, severe weather events, and other crisis situations. Their emergency response plan includes:

Clear communication channels for staff members to report emergencies and coordinate response efforts.
Designated evacuation routes and assembly areas for use in the event of a fire or other evacuation scenario.
Regular emergency drills and training exercises to familiarize staff members with emergency procedures and protocols.
Collaboration with local emergency services and agencies to ensure a coordinated response to emergencies that may require external assistance.

By prioritizing safety and health in all aspects of their operations, Camp Shady Brook YMCA strives to provide a secure and nurturing environment where campers can learn, grow, and thrive with confidence.

Cost and Registration in Camp Shady Brook YMCA

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Shady Brook YMCA varies depending on the length of the session and any optional add-on activities. Their pricing typically includes accommodation, meals, and a wide range of camp activities and programming. Additional costs may apply for specialized programs, equipment rentals, or optional excursions.

For one-week sessions, YMCA members pay $837 per session, while nonmembers pay $889 per session.
For two-week sessions, YMCA members pay $1,583 per session, and nonmembers pay $1,764 per session.

Registration Process and Deadlines: To register for Camp Shady Brook YMCA, interested families can visit their website. They recommend registering early to secure a spot as sessions may fill up quickly. Their registration process may include submitting a completed registration form, medical information, and any required deposits or payments.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies: Camp Shady Brook YMCA offers flexible payment options to accommodate the needs of their camp families. They understand that financial circumstances may vary, and they strive to work with families to create payment plans that are manageable and convenient. Their cancellation policy typically includes a deadline by which cancellations must be made to receive a full or partial refund of fees paid. They may also offer refunds or credits in certain circumstances, such as medical emergencies or unforeseen circumstances beyond the camper’s control. Families should review their cancellation policy carefully and contact their camp office with any questions or concerns.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid: Camp Shady Brook YMCA is committed to making the camp experience accessible to all children, regardless of financial circumstances. They offer scholarships and financial aid opportunities to qualifying families based on demonstrated need. Families interested in applying for scholarships or financial aid should contact their camp office for more information on eligibility requirements and application procedures. They strive to ensure that every child has the opportunity to benefit from the transformative experiences offered at Camp Shady Brook YMCA, regardless of financial barriers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Shady Brook YMCA

Packing List: To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience, they recommend that campers and their parents/guardians review and follow their suggested packing list. While specific items may vary depending on the session and activities, typical items include:

Clothing suitable for outdoor activities (e.g., t-shirts, shorts, swimsuits, hiking shoes)
Warm layers and rain gear for unpredictable weather
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal hygiene items
Bedding (sleeping bag or sheets, pillow)
Flashlight or headlamp
Water bottle and refillable mug
Personal items such as a journal, camera, or favorite books
Any required medications with clear instructions

Rules and Policies: Camp Shady Brook YMCA has rules and policies in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers and staff members. Some important policies include:

Technology Use: They encourage campers to disconnect from electronic devices and immerse themselves in the outdoor experience. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices may be restricted or prohibited during certain times or activities.
Visitation: To maintain a cohesive camp community, visitation from family members or friends may be limited to specific times or days.
Behavior Expectations: Campers are expected to treat others with respect, follow instructions from staff members, and contribute positively to the camp community. Bullying, harassment, or disruptive behavior is not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents: For first-time campers and their parents/guardians, they offer the following tips to help prepare for a successful camp experience:

Attend Orientation: Take advantage of any orientation sessions or pre-camp events offered by Camp Shady Brook YMCA to familiarize yourself with the camp environment, staff members, and activities.
Communicate Openly: Encourage open communication between campers and parents/guardians about expectations, concerns, and excitement leading up to camp. Address any questions or anxieties together to alleviate worries and build confidence.
Pack Thoughtfully: Follow the packing list provided by Camp Shady Brook YMCA and encourage campers to pack independently, empowering them to take ownership of their camp experience.
Embrace New Experiences: Encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities, and make new friends. Remind them that it’s normal to feel nervous or homesick at first, but that these feelings often fade as they settle into the camp routine.

By preparing together and approaching the camp experience with an open mind and positive attitude, campers and their parents/guardians can set the stage for a memorable and rewarding adventure at Camp Shady Brook YMCA.

As they conclude their exploration of Camp Shady Brook YMCA, they reflect on the profound impact that this wilderness haven has had on countless lives. Here, amidst the towering pines and shimmering streams of Deckers, Colorado, campers embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and friendship that transcends the boundaries of time.

Camp Shady Brook YMCA is more than just a summer retreat—it’s a sanctuary where memories are woven into the fabric of the natural world, where challenges are met with resilience, and where bonds are forged that withstand the test of distance and time. From the laughter echoing around the campfire to the quiet moments of reflection beneath the starlit sky, every experience at Camp Shady Brook YMCA leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who walk its wooded trails.