Summer Camp
Adventure-filled days and cozy campfire nights make our overnight and day camps a top pick for Ohio families. Campers enjoy outdoor games, swimming, horseback riding, high ropes, and more.
Ozone Zipline Adventures
Soar above the Little Miami River Valley on one of the Midwest’s top-rated zipline tours—open to the public and group bookings.
Horse Programs
Kids build responsibility, confidence, and riding skills with our structured horseback riding lessons and equestrian camps.
Group Rentals
From student councils to corporate groups, we help teams grow closer, stronger, and more successful through guided challenges and outdoor experiences.
Family Camp Programs
Make unforgettable memories together with family weekend retreats, themed events, and seasonal celebrations at Camp Kern.
Outdoor Education
Our immersive school-year programs turn nature into the classroom. Camp Kern partners with schools for hands-on science, history, and team-building experiences.
Events
November Volunteer Work Day
Pre-Thanksgiving Feast
Give the Gift of Camp this Giving Tuesday
Your Adventure Starts Here
Explore Camp Kern before you arrive—our detailed map helps you get familiar with cabins, activity areas, trails, and more.
Voices From the Campfire
Hear directly from campers, parents, and staff about what makes Camp Kern unforgettable—from first-time jitters to lifelong friendships and everything in between.
Wow! Elizabeth had such growth in just one week. I wish I could send her to more sessions (she asked to return before we even left the parking lot). She came home and was excited to show us the camp songs and tell us how she had grown up over the last week. I can already see the impact the week at camp has made.
— Mom of Camper
My kids went to Camp Kern for the first time and loved it! Two weeks later, they’re still talking about it. We’ll be back next year!
— Camp Parent
Over 100 Years of Camping
Camp Kern has been creating unforgettable summer memories since 1910, making it one of the oldest continually operating YMCA camps in the U.S.
Adventures Above the Tree Tops
Older campers can challenge themselves on a 55-foot-high climbing tower—a favorite activity in Adventure Village, and they get their adrenaline pumping on two exhilarating zip lines, flying high above the forest floor.
Explore the Beauty of Rural Ohio
Campers and visitors can explore more than 5 miles of hiking trails that wind through woods, meadows, and along creeks.
Horseback Riding for All Skill Levels
Camp Kern is home to over 60 horses and offers riding programs for beginners to advanced equestrians, including trail rides, ring work, and horse care.
From Sunrise to S’mores—It’s Nonstop Fun!
Unplugged Adventure
Kids step away from devices and into the woods, where they explore, play, and thrive in real-life experiences that spark imagination and joy.
Lasting Friendships
From shared cabins to trail hikes and team-building activities, campers make authentic friendships that often last well beyond summer.
Life Skills
Camp Kern creates a safe, supportive environment where kids build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and discover their strengths through outdoor adventures and peer connection.
OH 45054