YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha
Private
YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha is an all-girls overnight camp on Arbutus Lake near Traverse City, running since 1914, with cabins and lodges and a wilderness-adventure focus. Girls in grades 3-11 attend two- to four-week sessions and take part in sailing, swimming, canoeing, archery, crafts, ropes course, climbing tower, drama, field sports and campfires, plus out-of-camp hiking, canoeing, biking and kayaking trips in northern Michigan and southern Canada. The camp is tech-free. It is the sister camp to YMCA Camp Hayo-Went-Ha for boys on Torch Lake.
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 YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha 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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★★★★★Azeel JonesI actually went here as a camper and I had the time of my life, I know it was my first year here but I am very eager to go back next year. Not only did I have fun, but I met a lot of new friends that I still talk to, 10/10 I heavily recommend :)
★★★★★Alyssa HartAmazing overnight camp for girls. Very inclusive and self esteem building
★Kristie GutierrezMy child was sent home from this camp 3 days early and my 1 star review is primarily directed at the director, Amanda. Her handling was unprofessional and disappointing to say the least. I am not upset that my child was sent home- she has ADHD and presents more challenges than a neurotypical child. I would not recommend that anyone with a neurodivergent child attend this camp. There were issues with another child in her cabin, but when trying to express those issues Amanda interrupted on multiple occasions to insist that everyone in the cabin was very kind and welcoming. She was not solutions oriented and it was clear the goal was to send my child home. On her last night they wouldn’t even let her go back to her cabin to say goodbye- they made her sleep in the health center and collected her things instead. Heartbreaking situation for a 12 year old that she will certainly never forget. I’m only editing to add that Amanda will not return my call and is having current staff counselors add reviews after I posted this to contradict my experience. To be clear, I think the camp is lovely and my review is for her handling of my child specifically. My daughter attended the camp last year and enjoyed it, but she had better support from the staff that just wasn’t present this year. Amanda- can you please contact me about sending the rest of her belongings that were not brought to the airport pls?
★★★★★Lauren PlainAmazing camp experience! This is the second year our daughter has been to camp. We love the Camp Director Amanda. She is amazing. The counselors are wonderful. The tripping experience is great, the in camp activities are great. Love the two weeks- one feels too short. Truly an unforgettable camp experience that we will keep going back every year!
★★★★★Anique PuckettThis camp is gorgeous. The lodge building is spacious with numerous rooms and tons of natural light. The grounds offer a variety of trails and terrain. And the staff is absolutely fantastic. Very friendly and helpful. We rented the camp for the weekend. Highly recommend. Can't wait to visit again!