two young campers at camp check-in for ymca camp lakewood two young campers at camp check-in for ymca camp lakewood

What to Expect at Check-In & Check-Out

We're so glad your camper is joining us this summer! To make drop-off and pick-up smooth, we’ve designed a simple arrival and departure process that keeps the focus on one thing: your camper’s adventure. Below you’ll find everything you need to know.

Arrival Information
Arrival Information

First Day of Camper's Session | 1:30-3:00 PM

 

Arrival Information

First Day of Camper's Session | 1:30-3:00 PM

Welcome to camp! When you arrive, our staff will guide you step-by-step through the check-in process to help your camper feel comfortable and excited from the moment they step out of the car.

  • Follow signs to the designated drop-off/check-in station.
  • Staff will greet you, guide your car, and help unload luggage.
  • Campers will meet their counselors and receive cabin assignments.
  • Medication checks and health screenings occur at the Health Lodge.

Alternative Drop-Off Option

We offer bus transportation to camp from the South County YMCA or the O'Fallon Park Rec Complex for Sessions 1-9 (excluding Session 5b) for a $50 add-on fee. Those who select the bus transportation add-on must drop their campers off at their designated pick-up location on the first day of their camper's session. Bus check-in is at 10:30 AM. The bus departs St. Louis promptly at 11:00 AM.

South County YMCA

O'Fallon Park Rec Complex YMCA

Departure Information
Departure Information

Final Day of Camper's Session | 5:00-6:00 PM

 

While we're sad to see them go, we're excited to send your camper home with great stories and lifelong memories!

What to Expect on Departure Day

  • Head to the designated pick-up area. Staff will direct traffic flow.
  • Have your photo ID ready for check-out.
  • Campers will be packed and ready when you arrive.

Alternative Check-Out Add-Ons

Requests must be submitted in writing by 3:00 PM the day before your camper’s final day. Email requests to camplakewood@gwrymca.org.

Stayover

Campers who attend weekend stayover will stay in Main Camp cabins Friday and Saturday night. Dinner Friday through lunch Sunday will be at the Trout Lodge Dining Hall. Parents will be notified if the camper's second session cabin differs from their first session.

Pick-Up at South County YMCA

Check-Out Options

🚌 Bus Transportation FROM Camp

Available: Sessions 1–9 (Mini Session 2b excluded)

Families who select the bus transportation add-on must pick up their campers at the chosen St. Louis location on the final day of camp.

  • 3:00 PM – Bus departs Camp Lakewood
  • 4:30–5:00 PM – Bus check-out window at South County YMCA or O’Fallon Park Rec Complex
  • 5:00 PM – All campers must be picked up
    (Late fees apply after 5:00 PM unless the bus is delayed.)

Pick-Up Locations:

South County YMCA

O’Fallon Park Rec Complex YMCA

🌙 Weekend Stayover

Available: Traditional Sessions 1–2 & 6–8

Stayover is a great option for campers staying for back-to-back sessions and wanting a fun, supervised weekend at camp.

  • Two nights in Main Camp cabins (Friday & Saturday)
  • Meals provided from Friday dinner through Sunday lunch
  • Additional weekend activities guided by camp staff

Parents will be notified if their camper’s second-session cabin assignment differs from their first session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, just let us know ahead of time. We’ll ask for photo ID at pick-up to ensure safety.

There will be a late pick-up fee of $15 per camper for the first 5 minutes and $1 per camper per minute thereafter. Please be prepared to pay the late fee prior to departure. Any child left at the program for 1 hour past check-out time, police will be notified to assist in locating the parents or guardian as well as possible child abuse/neglect reporting process will occur.

All medication must be checked in with our Health Staff during arrival. Please do not pack medication inside luggage.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Make sure you’ve registered your camper for their session and added your arrival/departure plan in your account.