How much does Summer Day Camp cost?
Families pay non-refundable deposit of $20 per week to reserve each session, and tuition is due in full before your child attends camp.

Cherryville Day Camp Pricing
Member: $196.00
Non-Member: $244.00
Learn more about Cherryville Day Camp

McGill Day Camp Pricing
Member: $196.00
Non-Member: $244.00
Learn more about McGill Day Camps

Additional Warlick Camp Options
Leaders in Training Camp - for teens in grades rising 8th through rising 10th grade
 

Warlick Day Camp Pricing
Member: $196.00
Non-Member: $244.00
Learn more about Warlick Day Camps

Additional Warlick Camp Options
Leaders in Training Camp - for teens in grades rising 8th through rising 10th grade

Specialty Camps - Sports Camps for rising 1st - 6th grades

What is included in the camp fee?
Camp fees cover supervised activities, supplies, and field trips. Sites serve as Summer Nutrition Program meal locations, so children may receive free breakfast and lunch onsite during the program period. There are no additional activity fees beyond the weekly tuition and deposit.

Does Summer Day Camp provide lunch or snacks?
Each camp location partners with Gaston County Schools to offer free breakfast and lunch to anyone 18 and under. Campers must eat these meals onsite. Families may send snacks or a packed meal if they prefer, and should pack a lunch on days when specialty camps do not provide meals.

Are discounts available for Summer Day Camp?
Please check with your branch for any available discounts or early‑bird specials.

Are sibling discounts available for Summer Day Camp?
We do not offer discounts for siblings.

Is financial assistance or a scholarship available for Summer Day Camp?
Yes. The Y offers confidential financial assistance through donations raised in the Annual Giving Campaign. Families can apply online or at a member services desk to receive help with camp fees.

What dates or weeks is Summer Day Camp offered?
Camps at the Gaston County Family YMCA follow the Gaston County Schools schedule. In 2026, camp runs from May 26 through August 7.

When does Summer Day Camp start and end?
Summer Day Camp begins Tuesday, May 26, and ends Friday, August 7.

Are half-day or full-day Summer Day Camp options available?
All Gaston County Family YMCA Summer Day Camps operate on a full-day schedule from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Can I register for Summer Day Camp one week at a time?
Yes. Registration is offered by the week, so families can choose the weeks that fit their schedule. A deposit is required for each selected week. Registration closes on the Wednesday before each camp week, as space allows.

Is Summer Day Camp open on holidays?
Summer Day Camp is closed on holidays. In 2026, there will be no camp on Memorial Day, May 25, or on Saturday, July 4.

What are Summer Day Camp hours each day?
Traditional day camps operate from early morning until late afternoon. Campers may arrive starting at 7 am and must be picked up by 6 pm. Specialty camps run for half days, generally from 9 am to noon.

What are the drop‑off and pick‑up times for Summer Day Camp?
For traditional camps, drop‑off begins at 7 am and pick‑up runs from 4 pm until 6 pm. Specialty camps have drop‑off at 9 am and pick‑up between 11:30 am and noon.

Is early drop‑off available for Summer Day Camp?
Yes. Extended care is included with traditional camps, allowing families to drop off as early as 7 am and pick up until 6 pm. A late fee of $1 per minute is charged after 6 pm.

Is transportation or bussing provided for Summer Day Camp?
Campers are expected to be dropped off and picked up by a parent or guardian. Buses or vans may be used for field trips, and all YMCA drivers are screened and trained.

When does registration open for Summer Day Camp?
Registration typically opens February 15. Contact your branch or visit gastonymca.org/camp to learn the exact registration start date.

How do I register for Summer Day Camp?
Families can register online through the YMCA of Gaston County website or in person at their local branch. Enrollment must be completed at least five days before the desired camp week and includes submitting registration forms, health history and payment. A deposit is due at registration, and tuition must be paid before your child attends camp.

What ages can attend Summer Day Camp?
Programs are available for rising kindergarteners through rising tenth graders (approximately ages 5–15). Traditional day camp generally serves kindergarten through 6th or 7th grade, specialty camps serve grades 1–6, and teen programs serve grades 8–10.

How are campers grouped by age?
Campers are organized into huddles or groups with other children of similar grade levels. Staff follow YMCA ratio guidelines: 1:12 for ages 6 and up, and smaller ratios for younger campers.

Are there Summer Day Camp options for children with special needs?
Campers must be able to participate within standard staff‑to‑child ratios, including using the restroom and changing independently. Families should discuss individual needs with the camp director to determine if reasonable accommodations can be made.

What activities are offered at Summer Day Camp?
Campers enjoy a mix of outdoor and indoor activities, including sports and games, creative arts and crafts, themed projects, reading, and enrichment activities that promote social‑emotional and physical development. Weekly themes encourage imagination, curiosity and learning.

Are there swimming activities or lessons at Summer Day Camp?
Yes. Camps include swimming or water activities at pools and lakes. Staff are in the water with campers, lifeguards are present, and all campers take a swim test to determine swim ability. Lifejackets are required for lake activities.

What is the staff-to-camper ratio at Summer Day Camp?
Our YMCA Summer Day Camp programs follow safe, age-appropriate ratios to ensure each camper gets the attention they need:

• Ages 6 and up: 1 staff member for every 12 campers
• Ages 3–5: 1 staff member for every 8 campers

Campers should be able to follow staff guidance and participate safely within these ratios.

Where is Summer Day Camp located?
Gaston County camps operate at three YMCA branches:

Cherryville Family YMCA (Camp Whajado)
215 N Mountain St., Cherryville, NC 28021

McGill Family YMCA (Camp Ohana)
196 YMCA Drive, Belmont, NC 28012

Warlick Family YMCA (Camp Tuscarora)
2221 Robinwood Rd., Gastonia, NC 28054
 

Can I visit my child or volunteer at Summer Day Camp?
Parents who wish to visit or volunteer should contact their camp director to discuss guidelines and opportunities.

What is the cancellation or refund policy for Summer Day Camp?
Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing at least one week before the start of your registered week. Deposits are non-refundable, and no refunds or changes are allowed within one week of the session start. Registration closes the Wednesday before each camp week, and fees are not prorated for missed days. A $30 fee applies to late or returned payments.

What should my child bring to Summer Day Camp?
Please pack a backpack labeled with your child’s name that includes:

• 2 Snacks
• A water bottle
• Change of clothes (Lightweight, light-colored clothing suitable for outdoor play)
• Closed-toed shoes
• A hat or visor, and sunscreen (apply sunscreen before arriving)
• Swimsuit, goggles, and towel

Label all belongings and leave toys, electronics, money, and valuables at home.