From our friends at YMCA Camp Silver Creek:

Nestled in the stunning landscape of Silver Falls State Park, YMCA Camp Silver Creek offers a one-of-a-kind experience as the only YMCA summer camp in the country located on a site listed on the National Historic Registry. Virtually unchanged since its founding in 1938, the camp blends rich tradition with meaningful outdoor experiences that continue to resonate with generations of campers.

Where summer finds you – tucked among towering evergreens, open fields, and the steady rhythm of a babbling creek – Camp Silver Creek offers more than a place to play; it offers space to breathe. A large swimming pond reflects the night sky and the soft glow of candles during the beloved candlelight ceremony, creating moments of stillness, beauty, and connection. Evenings gathered around the campfire, sharing songs and stories, foster a sense of belonging that stays with campers long after summer ends.

From sleeping in rustic cabins to boating on the lake, building forts in the woods, or simply exploring the natural world, every part of camp invites curiosity, connection, and a sense of shared adventure. Campers unplug from daily distractions and step into fun experiences that build independence, resilience, and lasting friendships.

Camp Silver Creek offers a range of program options designed to meet families where they are. In addition to traditional week-long sessions for youth ages 7–12, shorter sessions provide an accessible introduction for first-time campers or those not yet ready for a full week away from home. Family camp experiences and teen leadership pathways, including Leaders in Training (LIT) and Oregon’s first expansion of the YMCA’s BOLD & GOLD program, create opportunities for growth at every stage.

BOLD & GOLD combines leadership development with immersive outdoor adventure, encouraging teens to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills through shared challenge and exploration.

At its core, Camp Silver Creek is more than just a place; it is an impactful experience grounded in the YMCA’s values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. It is a place where young people find community, feel a deep sense of belonging, and carry the magic of camp with them long after summer ends.