Summer Day Camps

7 - 9 YEARS

10 - 12 YEARS

12 - 15 YEARS

7 - 9 YEARS OLD - SHACKLETON

Nature Mate Boat Race

For our youngest adventurers, the focus is on curiosity, creativity, and confidence!
Each day brings hands-on fun, games, and nature discoveries designed to spark the imagination. 

Activities may include: 

  • 🔥 Mini bushcraft & den building 
  • 🎯 Archery  
  • 🍂 Nature treasure hunts & sensory trails 
  • 🌲 Giant swing or indoor climbing
  • 🛶💧Water based fun 

We keep groups small and supportive to help every child feel included and encouraged. 

10 - 11 YEARS OLD - MESSNER

Ready for more challenge and teamwork? This group blends outdoor exploration with skill-building activities that boost independence and confidence. 

Activities may include: 

  • 🧗‍♀️ Natural climbing walls & high rope challenges 
  • 🤝 Team challenges
  • 🛢 Raft building & paddle sessions
  • 🎒 A hike in the local fells
  • 🔥 Bushcraft 

Children will have opportunities to lead mini-projects, make new friends, and enjoy the thrill of outdoor adventure in a supportive environment. 

12 - 15 YEARS OLD - MACARTHUR

For our older participants, Day Camps becomes a true outdoor challenge, designed to test skills, build leadership, and inspire a love for the outdoors. 

Activities may include: 

  • 🧗Rock climbing 
  • 🛶 Adventure paddle sessions 
  • ⛰️ A full day offsite paddle and hike adventure 
  • 🧗‍♀️ High ropes and crate stack 

This group thrives on excitement, teamwork, and adventure — perfect for inspiring teens to stay active and outdoors!

My 3 children have had the most amazing time. They have made new friends and conquered some of their fears. Thank you so much for caring and giving them an amazing experience. We hope to come back next year!
Day Camp Parent
My 8 year old daughter absolutely loved all of it – zipwire, raft building, canoeing, low ropes (the bog is still there!) and some great new activities. I loved memory lane and the staff were so welcoming. The day camp staff are as enthusiastic and brilliant as ever. She's declared that she will work at Lakeside when she's older and we are back for more in a few weeks. Thank you Lakeside and all those involved for old and new memories
Parent & Previous Instructor
When I left YMCA, I felt sad that my packed week of fun was over but I also felt happy that I had pushed myself out of my comfort zone and learnt new skills. I hope to come back next summer to enjoy everything all over again!
Day Camper, 11 years old
My daughter has had a lovely time and has had the opportunity to take part in many activities that she wouldn’t ever have had the chance to. Thank you.
Day Camp Parent

Need some help? 

Check out our day camp FAQs here.