If you’re searching for a summer camp that offers adventure, friendship, and a true sense of belonging, YMCA Camp Copneconic is a name Michigan families have trusted for generations.
Located in Fenton, YMCA Camp Copneconic is nestled on 700 acres of wooded, lakefront property in southern Genesee County. Since 1915, this iconic camp has been a place where kids unplug from screens, connect with nature, and build skills-and memories-that last a lifetime.
Known as one of the best camping experiences in the Midwest, Camp Copneconic offers both day camp and overnight camp options, making it a great fit for first‑time campers and seasoned campers alike. And as part of the YMCA mission, camp is designed to be open and accessible to all families.
“Our camp is more than a program, it’s a community,” says Thomas Bawden, Executive Director of YMCA Camp Copneconic. “Every child who steps through our gates belongs here. We take pride in creating an environment where kids feel safe to try new things, supported as they grow, and celebrated for being exactly who they are.”
What Makes Camp Copneconic Unique?
Camp Copneconic blends classic camp traditions with high‑adventure experiences, all within an age‑progressive program that allows kids to return year after year and experience something new each summer.
Campers can look forward to:
- Zip lining and challenge courses
- Waterfront and lake activities
- Rock wall climbing
- Horseback riding
- Wilderness teambuilding
- Campfires, games, and shared traditions
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Each experience is thoughtfully designed to help kids:
- Build confidence
- Develop independence
- Try new things in a safe, supportive environment
- Form meaningful friendships
Whether campers are conquering fear on the zip line or laughing with cabinmates at the end of the day, every moment is part of a bigger journey of growth.
Programs & Age Groups
Day Camp
- Ages 4 through entering 8th grade
- Runs Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- June 15 – August 21
- Includes specialty camps and themed camps that immerse campers in creative storylines and hands‑on fun
Overnight Camp
- For campers entering grades 4–11
- Runs Sunday–Friday
- July 5 – August 14
- Each session has its own unique theme, creating a fully immersive camp experience
Families can choose one session or multiple sessions throughout the summer.
A Day in the Life at Camp
No two days at Camp Copneconic are exactly the same, but every day is filled with fun, discovery, and connection.
Campers rotate through multiple activity blocks, exploring a variety of interests and challenges. Activities are balanced to be engaging without overwhelming, and overnight campers enjoy special evening programs that bring the entire camp together for shared fun and unforgettable moments.
From morning lake adventures to evening campfires, campers stay active, curious, and connected all day long.
🛡️ Safety, Staffing & Medical Care
Safety is at the heart of everything Camp Copneconic does.
- Counselor‑to‑camper ratios range from 1:4 to 1:7, depending on age and program
- Staff undergo a rigorous screening process, including background checks, reference checks, and national sex offender registry checks
- Counselors receive extensive training in:
- Emergency response
- Child abuse prevention
- Supervision standards
- Age‑appropriate communication and care
Camp Copneconic provides certified Health Officers on site for both day and overnight camps, working closely with an on‑call physician at Hurley Medical Center. For more serious situations, campers receive priority care at Hurley Children’s Hospital.
🍽️ Meals & Accommodations
- Overnight campers receive breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack daily
- Day campers receive lunch and two snacks
- Special dietary needs and allergies can be accommodated with advance notice
Overnight campers stay in bunk‑style cabins, which range from rustic to modern. Some cabins have in‑building bathrooms, while others use nearby lodge facilities just a short walk away.
🌈 Inclusivity & Accessibility
Camp Copneconic is committed to being a welcoming place for campers with a wide range of needs and abilities. Staff work closely with families before camp to understand how to best support each child, including accommodations for medical needs, dietary restrictions, learning differences, and sensory sensitivities.
While the camp does not provide one‑on‑one supervision, the team is always happy to help families determine whether Copneconic is the right fit—or assist in finding alternative programs if needed.
💙 Financial Assistance & Community Partnerships
Because no child should miss out on the magic of camp, Camp Copneconic offers:
- Monthly auto‑installment payment plans
- Sibling discounts
- Financial assistance programs
What Parents Are Saying
“My daughter has been going to camp for years, and it’s always her best summer memories. Two of her closest friendships started at camp.”
“Our boys absolutely LOVE Copneconic. Away camp has been such an important building block of independence and growth.”
“Camp gives my kids the chance to be outside all day, learn new skills, and meet a diverse group of friends. We’re so grateful they get to go every year.”
📅 Camp Dates for 2026
- Day Camp: June 15 – August 21
- Overnight Camp: July 5 – August 14
🔗 Camp Copneconic Quick Links
- Website: https://campcopneconic.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/campcopneconic
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ymcacampcopneconic
Helpful Links:
- Camp Registration: https://campcopneconic.org/register/
- Payment Plans & Scholarships: https://campcopneconic.org/parent-corner/payment-plans-scholarships/
- Health & Safety Information: https://campcopneconic.org/parent-corner/health-safety/
📞 For more information, call 810‑629‑9622 or visit campcopneconic.org.
FO THE FULL SUMMER CAMP BROCHURE CLICK HERE: CAMP COPNECONIC SUMMER CAMP
Top 5 Reasons Families Love Camp Copneconic
1. A Tradition Families Trust
Since 1915, YMCA Camp Copneconic has been a trusted place for kids to learn, grow, and belong. Generations of families return year after year, knowing their children are in caring, experienced hands.
2. Incredible Outdoor Setting
Set on 700 acres of wooded, lakefront property, camp offers kids the chance to unplug, explore nature, and enjoy Michigan’s great outdoors in a safe and inspiring environment.
3. Programs for Every Age & Interest
With both day camp and overnight camp options, plus age‑progressive programming, campers can return each summer to discover new adventures—from waterfront fun to high‑adventure challenges.
4. Safety Comes First
Families appreciate Camp Copneconic’s strong focus on safety, including low counselor‑to‑camper ratios, extensive staff training, and on‑site health professionals supported by a local hospital partnership.
5. Camp for Everyone
As part of the YMCA, Camp Copneconic is committed to being open and accessible to all. Flexible payment plans, sibling discounts, and financial assistance help ensure every child can experience the magic of camp.
