The Youth Camp Early Registration Lottery will run from Monday, November 20 through Wednesday, November 29. Programs details, session dates, and rates will be posted to the website in early November. Youth Camp Early Registration Lottery: November 20-29 The camper application for youth camp programs (Traditional Camp, Teen programs, and Adventure Trips) will be open November 20 through 29. This 10-day application window is not first come, first served. All interested families (returning and new) can submit applications for their campers anytime during this window. Applicants can list and rank their preferences for up to six programs and sessions and can request enrollment in one or two programs. After this application window closes, Camp Echo staff will randomly order and manually process applications received in three buckets: Returning campers who attended in 2023 and their younger siblings are processed first, McGaw YMCA members are next, followed by everyone else. Campers […]

A year-long celebration of special events and activities are planned to honor a century of adventure, growth, and community.  EVANSTON, IL. – McGaw YMCA is proud to announce the celebration of Camp Echo’s 100th year anniversary. Since its inception at its current home in 1924, Camp Echo, one of the longest-standing YMCA camps in the nation, has remained a beloved destination for generations of children and families seeking a summer camp adventure away from home. Nestled in the woods of Fremont, MI, Camp Echo has helped transform the lives of countless campers by providing immersive outdoor experiences that combine adventure, education, and a sense of community. Each year, over 1,500 campers from Evanston and beyond enjoy summer at Camp Echo as a chance to unplug from life’s demands, form connections in spirit, mind and body. “Camp Echo leaves an imprint on your soul,” said Monique Parsons, McGaw YMCA President/CEO. “It