NEW Spring Break Camps at Silver Lake – Call 250.491.9622 to register

Winter Mystery Camp – Discover all the ‘hidden’ treasures of Silver Lake through snowbound adventures that include skating, snowshoeing, tubing, orienteering and so much more!
8-12 years     Mar 11-16    $325

Youth in Action Camp – Bring your imagination, creativity and team work to this new overnight leadership camp and come away with valuable skills for your future.
11-14 years     Mar 20-23    $265

On this page:

Camp Tour | What We Offer | Register for Camp

Preparing for a Successful Camp Experience

Employment | Camper Information Form

Camp Tour

Location & Directions

Silver Lake is located in the mountains 15km northwest of Peachland, British Columbia. Silver Lake Camp is a scenic 20 minute drive from downtown Peachland or 45 minutes from downtown Kelowna.

Driving Direction |  View map

Facilities

Experience a magnificent outdoor wilderness setting, stunning grounds, rustic cabins and Silver Lake’s newly built lodge! Camp facilities include:

• 5 rustic sleeping cabins
• Lodge – large dining hall, games & activity rooms
• Wash house
• Swimming docks & boat house
• Volleyball court & playing field
• Trail systems/cross country trails
• Resource building
• Campfire pits with benches

History

The Silver Lake Forest Education Centre originally opened in 1971. In 1996 the not-for-profit Silver Lake Forest Education Society was formed and took over the management of the Centre. The camp provides year-round, hands-on, outdoor experiences for youth, adults and educators. Sustainable forest and outdoor education are emphasized through recreational activities, educational programs and residential camping experiences.

In 2011, the YMCA-YWCA Okanagan entered into a partnership with the Silver Lake Forest Education Society to operate the Camp. The Y is well known around the world for its leadership development through camping. Each summer, more than 18,000 children and youth participate in one of 28 YMCA resident camps in Canada. Y Camps strive to offer the highest quality programs through a variety of safe and fun activities supervised by qualified and energetic staff. Learn more about the YMCA-YWCA Okanagan.

Both organizations share a commitment to include environmental and forest education as part of the camp program and to create a positive and safe environment, ensuring campers leave with increased confidence, self-esteem, new skills and friendships.

What We Offer

All camps at Silver Lake are led by staff that are professional, certified, energetic and trained as role models. Programs, activities and games will teach your children leadership & team building skills, help them build confidence and friendships, enhance their respect and knowledge of our forests, and are guaranteed to be packed full of fun outdoor activities and one-of-a-kind camp experiences. The overall purpose of camp is to provide opportunities and experiences that promote individual growth and holistic development in ‘spirit, mind and body’. We accomplish this goal through the embodiment of the Y’s core values – caring, honesty, respect and responsibility – in all of our programs and services.

Spring Break Camp – Silver Lake is typically still frozen solid in March and the surrounding forests are covered with lots of snow! We offer two camp sessions (see below) that include winter activities such as snowshoeing, tubing, ice fishing, group challenges/games and so much more.

Summer Camp – runs during July and August each year. We offer eight, one-week camp sessions (5 days & 5 nights) for children ages 8-14 and Youth Leadership Programs (14-17 years) geared towards training and providing experiences for our up-and-coming counselors!

Examples of daily activities at summer camp:

• Discover the forest ecosystems – hand-on activities and experiments with soil, finding insects and why they are important, examining specimens under a microscope, and using our new snorkeling equipment to discover what’s under the lake surface!
• Compass work and orienteering challenge that is a favourite of all campers!
• Hiking through a network of trails for exercise, tree and plant identification and a chance of wildlife sightings!
• Swimming, fishing & canoeing
• NEW! Water Trampoline
• Sports & adventure games
• Archery
• Obstacle course & zip line
• Arts & drama (skit nights)
• And of course, hot chocolate & camp fires (when permitted)

School Groups & Rentals

Are you a teacher looking to take your class on a unique field trip? There is no better place to learn about the forest and environment than at Silver Lake.

During the fall, winter & spring, the camp facility is available to book by school groups, sports and leadership organizations, and for corporate meetings or retreats. We can design a package to meet the individual needs of each group, including providing a cook and knowledgeable staff to lead team building activities, provide environmental education, games and so much more. Call us today at 250-491-9622 for more information or email silverlake@ymca-ywca.com.

Download the Silver Lake Rental & Retreat Package

Register for a Camp

Spring Break Camp

Prices include a $10.00 Canteen credit.  If you wish to purchase a DVD, please pre-order when registering.

2012 Summer Camp Dates & Fees COMING SOON!

Register in Person: Visit us at the Kelowna Family Y, 375 Hartman Road, Kelowna, BC. Please bring your preferred payment method (cheque, debit or credit card).

Register by Phone: Please call 250-491-9622 to register over the phone. Phone-in registration accepted with Visa or MasterCard only. Once your registration is confirmed:

Please read the Preparing for a Successful Camp Experience section which includes what your camper should pack for camp.

Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be received in writing to silverlake@ymca-ywca.com. Written cancellations will be accepted up to 30 days prior to the first day of the registered camp session. A $20 administration fee will be charged for all cancellations. Cancellations made within 30 days of your camp’s start date will only be accepted with a physician’s note. Refunds for camp fees will not be issued for campers unable to attend, arriving late or leaving early for any reason, including health or behavior issues.

Every kid deserves a chance.

Both the YMCA-YWCA and the Silver Lake Forest Education Society want to ensure that all children benefit from a positive camp experience and no one is left out. The YMCA-YWCA offers financial sponsorship to assist those whose financial circumstances would otherwise prevent them from affording summer camp. If you would like to apply please complete the financial sponsorship form and drop it off to the Kelowna Family Y to start the confidential application process.

Send a Kid to Camp! Thanks to our donors, thousands of children and youth have the opportunity to experience. Donate online today!

Preparing for a Successful Camp Experience

Camp is an exciting and fun place full of friends, adventures, skills, stories, songs, campfires, games and many other things. It’s also a very different place from what campers are used to – a different bed, different washroom, different food choices and a different schedule.

Transportation for your Child
Transportation to and from overnight camps are the responsibility of the parent. Please do not arrive earlier than your camps arrival time as our staff are busy preparing for the week ahead. Also, if you will not be picking up your child you will need to provide us with the name of the person who will pick up your child at the end of the week. That person will be required to provide proof of a picture ID (ie a driver’s license) in order to pick up your child.

Health and Safety
At YMCA-YWCA Camps, the health and safety of children is our first priority. Support staff are always on duty to maintain safe facilities and all staff are trained to handle emergencies:

• Nationally certified lifeguards supervise and staff the waterfront at Silver Lake.
• Camps are inspected regularly by the local health departments and are accredited by the BC Camping Association.
• Silver Lake has a well-equipped First Aid Room and is staff by a minimum of one First Aid Attendance with an Occupational First Aid Level 3. All staff completes at a minimum, certification in First Aid and CPR.
• All staff and volunteers are well screened and trained before working at camp. Everyone completes a criminal record check, undergoes a personal interview with three reference checks, and participates in a 40-hour training program at camp.
• Our kitchen prepares nutritious, well-balanced meals and ensures that dietary concerns are addressed. Please note: the Y does not guarantee a nut free facility. At some times of the year we do serve nut products. If your camper had a nut allergy, please let us know.

Your Camper’s Health
Extended Medical Information
Complete the medical information section of the Camper Information Form which you will be asked to sign on the first day of camp. The more up-to-date information we have regarding your camper, the easier it is to ensure a successful experience. If there is information which you feel might need special attention or allow us to provide your camper with a better experience please let us know. For information of a confidential nature regarding your camper please provide a note in a sealed envelope addressed to the Camp Director.

Medication
Send all medications in the original bottle with the original information and instructions. Ensure everything is clearly labelled with your child’s name. All medications will be turned in to the First Aid Attendant upon arrival with the exception of asthma inhalers and, in some cases, epi-pens. Any children that are on special medications will meet with the First Aid Attendant on the first day of camp.

We recommend you continue with regular behavioural medication such as Ritalin if these are taken daily. Should you have any specific instructions please do not hesitate to call the Camp Director to give them more information.

Head Lice
Prior to arrival at camp, please check your child’s head thoroughly for lice. Head lice are very contagious and as campers live in a very close environment, we want to prevent outbreaks of lice. All campers will have a lice check on the first day of camp. If we find that your child has lice or nits (eggs) you will be contacted and you will be responsible for treating your child. Should you require more information on head lice please contact camp or your local health unit.

In Case of Injury or Illness
Quiet rest areas are available if a child becomes over-tired or needs extra care. We may request that you pick up your child if they fall ill. In the event that your child requires serious medical treatment, a staff member will accompany your camper to the clinic or hospital, and our Camp Director will contact you both prior to and following the visit. Our staff will stay with your child until you arrive.

Homesickness
Our group leaders are enthusiastic and passionate about making sure all our campers have an enjoyable camp experience. They are fully trained on how to respond to camper’s individual needs and how to recognize and handle situations in which homesickness arises. Many of our Senior Staff members have years of camping experience and are able to identify and help manage homesickness.

If your child is persistently homesick and it is impacting their camp experience a senior staff member will get in touch with you to let you know the situation and to ‘brainstorm’ possible strategies to help your camper cope.

Sleeping Habits
Our staff are well aware of how to deal with such issues as bedwetting, sleepwalking and night terrors as they are common among our younger campers. If you have any concerns about your child please inform our camps office in order to better help us ensure he/she has a positive camp experience.

Camper Behaviour Policy
YMCA-YWCA camp staff are highly trained in providing quality care and will try several methods to correct campers undesired behaviour; parents will be involved when possible.

Camper Dismissal
If a situation arises where a camper threatens the safety of another camper or if a camper shows a complete disregard of camp rules, the child may be dismissed at the discretion of the Camp Director. The parents/guardians will be responsible for any costs associated with the camper’s dismissal for behavioural reasons and no refund will be given if the dismissal is due to behavioural reasons.

Possession of illicit substances
Smoking, the consumption of alcohol and/or the use of non-prescription drugs are not permitted on Silver Lake property. Any camper or staff member who disregards this policy will be automatically removed regardless of circumstance or degree of participation.

Visitors
The camp program is a busy one that uses all parts of the day. Visits can be very disruptive to campers prone to homesickness (or to other campers in the group). Camp is also a great place for kids to build their independence and self-reliance. It is preferable that campers do not receive visitors during their time at camp.

If a visit is absolutely necessary please call the camp office in advance to arrange a time that works best for both you and your camper. All visitors are required to sign in at the office. Campers may not receive visitors under the age of 19 without a parent/guardian present. Parents are welcome to take a tour of camp on first and last day of camp.

Camp Activities
Over the course of their camp experience campers will be exposed to a wide variety of activities and experiences. They will receive individual instruction in new skills, take part in cabin group activities and participate in games and theme events involving the entire camp. In all our programs we emphasize creativity, imagination and adventure in a safe, fun-filled atmosphere designed to encourage growth and the development of self-confidence.

Activities at camp are challenge-by-choice – campers will never be forced to do an activity in which they feel uncomfortable but they will be encouraged by their leader to try new experiences. Camp Counselors and Junior Leaders work to design program options which are safe, active and appropriate to the age level of the group. Activity areas offer instruction where campers proceed at their own pace and the lessons are structured to allow time for campers to accomplish their goals within the timeframe of the session.

Cabin Groups
Cabin size at Silver Lake vary with 12 – 20 campers sleeping together. We provide a high ratio of cabin leaders to campers (1 to 6) who provide 24-hour supervision. The members of the senior staff team are also available to provide support to cabin groups and individual campers who may be struggling with the challenges of being away from home.

The principal unit of activity at camp is the cabin group. We have found that activities focused around a small group of peers encourages the development of close friendships as they take part in activities and meet challenges together. We do our best to foster an atmosphere of co-operation rather than competition. If we do run an activity containing some element of competition, we focus on challenging campers to achieve their own goals, rather than encouraging them to measure their accomplishments against the achievements of others.

What to Bring to Camp
Gathering the proper clothing and equipment, and packing are important parts of your child’s experience; this can help them to be comfortable and confident.

NOTE: It is not necessary to go out and buy every item; many outdoor stores have good used equipment or offer rentals and this is a good way to ensure that your child has the right equipment.

When packing make sure that your camper has a hand in the process; this will make them more aware of what was brought to camp, which will make packing to go home that much easier.
Your camper will be very active and that camp can be rough on clothes, for this reason we recommend that campers do not bring expensive clothing to camp. Please label everything with the camper’s first and last name.

Recommended Clothing and Equipment List
Each camp program can vary – please consider the activities that your camper may participate in and the length of their stay.

SPRING BREAK Camp Equipment List Equipment

• Sleeping bag – warm, preferably synthetic fill
• Pillow and pillow case
• Flashlight with fresh and extra batteries
• Water bottle

Clothing

• Supply of underwear for the session
• Supply of socks for the session – both thin and thick for hiking
• 3 -4 pairs of pants (sweatpants are warmer than jeans)
• 5 shirts (long sleeved)
• 2-3 warm sweaters (a warm sweater and a fleece jacket)
• 2 sets of pajamas
• 2 towels (1 large, 1 small)
• 2 toques (optional)
• 2-3 pairs of gloves/mitts
• Scarf
• Snow pants
• Winter Jacket (thick or lined)
• Winter Boots
• Slippers or indoor shoes

Personal Care Items

• Biodegradable soap, biodegradable shampoo (in plastic containers)
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Brush or comb
• Lip balm (optional)
• Laundry bag (breathable, to keep dirty clothes separate)

Optional

• Camera and film (disposable camera recommended)
• Books
• Sheet for mattress, extra blanket
• We do not have on-site laundry, but in the event of an emergency, arrangements will be made to ensure laundry is dealt with promptly.

Do not bring:
Matches, firearms, knives, hatchets, tobacco, video games, toys, cellular phones, portable radios, iPods, laptops, hair dryers, expensive watches or jewellery. Food, candy and gum should also be left in the city (they attract animals both large and small). YMCA-YWCA Camps will not be responsible for lost, damaged or stolen items.

Luggage
Luggage need not be expensive – back packs are ideal, hockey bags, duffels, old suitcases and big laundry bags are fine. Do not pack items in garbage bags as they rip easily and can be mistaken for garbage. Include a sturdy backpack for any hikes or day trips and don’t forget to label your luggage as well!

Biodegradable Soap
All soap products used (shampoo, soap and conditioners) must be biodegradable. We need your help to protect the environment and our water system works best and operates cleanly when all soap products used are biodegradable.

Lost & Found
We do our best to keep campers and their possessions together but every year we have many unclaimed items with no identification. Labeling all items makes it easier for us to return any items found during/after your camper’s session. All lost and found items will be transferred to the Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA (375 Hartman Road) and held for 30 days following the completion of your child’s camp. All unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable organization.

Food at Camp
Camp is an active place and good meals are important to help keep energy levels high! With this in mind YMCA-YWCA Camp kitchens offer nutritious, filling and ‘kid friendly’ meals. Residential campers receive 3 meals a day. Fruit is available all day for campers needing something extra, and healthy snacks & treats are available for purchase from the Camps Canteen Store.

Our camps are able to accommodate special diets, please ensure that any dietary requests or food allergies are indicated when completing the Camper Information Form.

Contacting Your Camper at Camp – Cell Phone Policy
We understand that sending your child to camp, whether it is the first or the fifth time, is a huge leap of faith (and not just for the camper!). We understand that both parties will long for contact we have several strategies in place to help everyone and, most importantly, to ensure a successful camp experience for your camper.

To help develop each individual camper’s independence one of the most important strategies that we ask for your support on is not allowing cell phones at camp. Silver Lake is a remote forestry camp and cell phone service is not available in most areas of camp. If a challenging situation involving your camper does arise we will communicate directly with you to get your advice and support.

After Camp
Our goal is to constantly improve each campers experience and our facility and we appreciate your comments. We will be sending you survey information after your child’s camp so please take the time to let us know your impressions of your child’s camp experience.

Employment

Silver Lake provides the unique opportunity to work in an environment that is as fun as it is professionally rewarding. Our staff work hard and long days, but the experience that results is well worth it! View the current employment opportunities.

Contact

Camp Director,  Heather Schroeder | campdirector@ymca-ywca.com | 250-764-9621 ext 311

In case of an emergency only:    250-215-1195