Hands-on, outdoor learning for students in grades 1-12

School groups are welcome to explore the outdoors with an overnight, educational experience at YMCA Camp Erdman. Current research indicates direct correlations between the level of natural world engagement and the increase in a child’s ability to learn and improve their health and social behavior. Meaningful outdoor experiences are powerful tools for lifelong impact and learning.

Camp Erdman is a perfectly positioned North Shore getaway with a variety of amenities to provide students with a rich, experience-based outdoor learning environment. From exploring our tide pools during Marine Biology and replanting Native Hawaiian plants to climbing outside of comfort zones while scaling the Alpine Tower, our unique programs allow our campers to have a true hands-on outdoor learning experience.

  • Ages: Grades 1-12
  • Dates: Programs are 3 days, 2 nights—Monday through Wednesday, or Wednesday through Friday—and are available August to May
  • Cost: Include meals, lodging, and programming
    • $190 per student
    • Chaperones come for free if a student-to-chaperone ratio of 8:1 is maintained, additional chaperones are $70 each
    • Reach out to Drew Markey to learn about need-based financial aid.

Outdoor education programs are designed to keep students active by keeping both body and mind in motion. We focus on being outdoors and immersed in the natural world. Activities are geared towards student groups working together rather than solitary pursuits. While we have lots of program options, we are happy to customize your school’s experience.

Need more information? Contact Drew Markey at [email protected]. 

Teacher Information

When you bring your school group to YMCA Camp Erdman, you can expect hands-on experiential outdoor science classes aligned with several educational standards.

Parent/guardian information

It’s our mission to provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment to youth of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. 

Healthcare at camp

If a child has a minor injury—think scrape, cut, or bump—first aid is administered by teachers/chaperones. For more serious injuries, kids will be taken to see a licensed physician. If your child takes medication, their teacher will collect it and be responsible for administering it at camp.

Contact at camp

If you have an important message for your child while they are visiting camp, please call your child’s teacher or chaperone. If you are unable to reach them, you may call camp at (808) 637-4615.