With new themes every week, there's always something exciting happening at Discovery Camp!
Few camps offer the variety of activities that you can find at Discovery Camp. Every year, new weekly themes are selected and activities and field trips are built around the theme of the week.
There's never a dull moment at Discovery Camp. Join us this summer to be a part of the fun.
Activities
- Field trips
- Games
- Arts and crafts
- Outdoor fun
- Lessons
- And more!
Dates
In 2026, Discovery Camp runs from June 15-August 14. Closed June 19.
Locations
- Enka District: Sand Hill-Venable Elementary
- Erwin District: Johnston Elementary
- Owen District: Black Mountain Elementary
- Reynolds District: Fairview Elementary
- Roberson District: Avery's Creek Elementary
- McDowell District: Coming soon
Childcare Subsidy Vouchers are accepted for this program. Click here to learn more and to register.
Why parents and kids love Discovery Camp
See what families say about our program.
Info for parents
As a parent, you need to be comfortable leaving your child in our care. See our Parent Handbook to learn about our protocols and policies.
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Discovery Camp FAQ
Financial assistance is available for qualified applicants. Click here to apply.
- The amount of financial assistance that can be provided will be dependent on income and other factors. Please have financial documents ready before you apply.
- You must apply for DHHS vouchers with the Department of Social Services state subsidy program before you can qualify for financial assistance through the YMCA. Call the DSS at 828-250-5500.
Discovery Summer Day Camp is for rising first graders-age 12.
Age groups are broken into different ranges for different activities that are facilitated by our expert childcare staff.
Your child will be able to learn, play, and connect with other children their age while they enjoy exploring.
Discovery Camp starts on a different date every year depending on a variety of factors.
In 2026, Discovery Camp's start date will be June 15.
Daily schedules vary greatly, but a typical day looks like:
| Sample Schedule | |
|---|---|
| 7:30-8:30 am | Child drop-off and breakfast |
| 8:30-9 am | Free play |
| 9-9:30 am | Morning ceremonies & groups separated for the day's activities |
| 9:30-10:45 am | Waterplay - pool time - field trip - talent shows, face painting, & gymnasium time - or Wheels |
| 10:45-11:30 am | Lunch |
| 11:30 am-12:30 pm | Nap - rest - puzzles - coloring |
| 12:30-2 pm | Group games |
| 2-2:30 pm | Snack time |
| 2:30-3:30 pm | YMCA curriculum project |
| 3:30-4 pm | Silent reading time |
| 4-5:30pm | Camp songs, group activity, & gymnasium time |
| 5:30pm | Child pickup |
Yes, the Y provides lunch. Parents may also pack lunch for their child.
Click here to learn more about our packed-lunch policy and guidelines.
Food from home guidelines
Your child should come to Discovery Camp with:
- Backpack
- Active clothes that are OK to get dirty
- Active sneakers
- Sunblock
- Brimmed hat
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
- Any medications they will need through the day
- Allergy medicine, including an EpiPen if prescribed
If your child will need anything besides what is listed here, a YMCA staff member will let you know.