Leif Ericson Day Camp for 6-9 Year Olds

Leif Ericson Program

The heart of the Leif Ericson experience is found in the activities of the small close knit group of campers who, with their counselor, carry out a large variety of activities.

In this secure world, a child can walk and climb, fish and swim and make new friends. There are horses to ride, campfires to enjoy and stories to be told. There are unique playgrounds, friendly competition and cooperation with noisy times and quiet moments, serenity, happiness and confidence to be shared. And there is a concern for the spirit which is the essence of childhood… for Leif Ericson is a child’s world where the spirit moves through the leaves, grasses and waters of the Sioux River. It takes the children away from the city into a special moment in their lives they will remember forever.

For more information, click here to check out the Leif Ericson website. The website is full of pictures and information about some of the activities available during camp.

Family Night

Thursday evening, during the second week, brings campers, brothers, sisters, and parents together for a special program highlighting the excitement that Leif Ericson has brought to so many children. Families will have the adventure of touring the camp, meeting the staff and joining in a marvelous program for all.

The six and seven year old campers will finish their camp experience at the conclusion of our Parent’s Night Program.

Overnight

After the Family Night program comes the exciting time for the eight and nine year old campers as they head into the night for the experience of a "Leif Ericson overnight." Campers gather at Campfire Point for an inspirational campfire before returning to their individual campsites for roasting hotdogs and smores.

A Day at the "Outback"

The Outback Adventure seeks to remove each camper from modern urban society to a simpler time. Campers spend a day away in a beautiful woodland and prairie setting exploring, learning, and facing new and exciting challenges. Every year brings new adventures. Stories to tell, campfires to enjoy... at the "Outback".

Amazon Valley Adventure

"For miles in every direction there is nothing but snake-infested jungle..." Thus begins the unique adventure called "Amazon Valley".

Eight and nine year old groups re-create the crash of their airplane in the depths of the Amazon Valley. The goals are to increase self esteem, create mutual trust, bond the small group together, solve problems together and... to have fun. The escape from Amazon Valley provides excitement and adventure for all!

Leif Ericson/Camp Tepeetonka Information

Camp Dates 2008 (Leif Ericson and Tepeetonka Campers ONLY)

• Camp 1 -- June 2 - 12
• Camp 2 -- June 16 - 26
• Camp 3 -- July 7 - 17
• Camp 4 -- July 21 - July 31
• Camp 5 -- August 4 - 14

Transportation To And From Camp

(Leif Ericson and Tepeetonka Campers Only)

Children are picked up between 7:30 and 8:30am They are dropped off between 3:00 and 4:30pm. Exact pick-up and drop-off times will be mailed before camp begins. Transportation not available for Little Vikes campers or Tepeetonka Explorers. Additional pick-up points will be made available if possible.

Lunch provided daily for Leif Ericson and Tepeetonka campers.

Important Documents

Frequently Asked Questions about YMCA Day Camp

Download a YMCA Day Camp Registration

New! Online Registration is now available!

Direct questions to Chuck Bennis, (605) 336-3190, ext 325 or cbennis@siouxfallsymca.org.