Camp Manito-wish YMCA is a wilderness overnight camp on 300-plus acres along Boulder Lake in Boulder Junction, serving youth entering grades 5–9 in three-week sessions, plus a 15–18 Outpost wilderness-tripping program. Every camper takes a multi-day canoeing, backpacking or sea-kayaking trip alongside sailing, archery, horsemanship and other activities. It is a nonprofit YMCA camp known for backcountry trips.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Camp Manito-wish YMCA directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Accreditations & licensing
As stated by the camp or listed in the accrediting organization's directory — confirm current status with the accreditor.
Google Reviews
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★★★★★Marc CartrightI went here as a kid (a few presidents ago), and this place was amazing. I learned a ton of outdoor skills, and I actually wish I had more time to work on them. I even got to paint a canoe paddle that I still have today. I recommend this place to anyone who wants to try the outdoor / camping experience.
★★★★★Dave FlemingI attended this camp for 5 years all the way from the east coast as a teenager. I'm now 40 and cannot list the number of positive ways my experience shaped me as a person here. It improved my life, outlook, hobbies, attitude, personality, adventures, etc... If it's anything today like it was in the 90s, you should stop reading this and start signing your family up for this life changing camp.
★★★★★Gwenn RI went to Camp Manitowish as a kid and it is something I still remember fondly and now I look back and see what a vital role it played in turning me into the person I am today. Not to mention bragging rights about going on trail... "Yes, I carried one of those aluminum canoes on my shoulders when I was 12." I went back and volunteered for a week during the summer and it is still an amazing place.
★★★★★Ann BrachmanMy father went in the 1930's, my brother and I went in the 1970's and 80's and my son has been attending since 2007. I am most impressed that the Camp's mission has never changed. The facilities are amazing. The Outpost opportunities are extraordinary. Kids have fun and make life long friends. And all of this while campers grow in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all people. Campers learn leadership skills without realizing it. They gain self-confidence and mature while thinking they are simply having a good time. Send your children. Now!! You will not be sorry.
★★★★★Chris KofMy son and daughter both have been going to Manito-Wish for several years. If your idea of a wonderful summer camp experience is learning nature, outdoor adventure, life and physical skills, it may be one of the best camps in the US. With campers from all over the country and even international campers, this is an opportunity for your children to have experiences they likely would never have in their lives. Canoeing, kayaking, backpacking . . . Northern Wisconsin, Lake Superior, Canada, Rocky Mountains, Alaska and other great "wilderness trip adventures" are offered. Been around 100 years. My 81 year old father went as a kid. If you are looking for a very special camp and these types of activities excite you, your kids will not be disappointed!