YMCA Camp Grady Spruce

★★Esther Sanram

This year, our 5th graders went to camp, and it's clear that we need to consider a new location for future trips. Here are the main issues we faced: - **Horseback Riding:** We paid for this activity, but the ride was only **10 minutes** long! To make matters worse, there were no horses for chaperones, despite our payment. - **Archery:** The archery activity lost its excitement after the first attempt. They definitely need to offer more engaging activities. - **Food Quality:** The meals were quite bland and could really have used some seasoning for better flavor. - **Staff Experience:** On a positive note, the staff was excellent and tried their best to create a positive experience. - **Boat Ride:** The boat ride to the hiking area was a disaster. The old boat leaked, letting water in, and many of the seats were broken. - **Fishing Activity:** Unfortunately, no one caught any fish, which seems to be a recurring issue, as noted by a teacher. - **Theft Incident:** To top it all off, my charging block was stolen, apparently by the staff. They played clueless about who cleaned the rooms. That was a $60 portable charger! Overall, while the camp has potential, there are significant improvements that need to be made, especially given the costs involved. We deserve a better and more rewarding experience!

★★★★★Tiffany Thompson

My daughter had so much fun at this camp that she still hasn’t stopped talking about all of the fun things she did! The counselors were absolutely amazing as well!! I felt very confident and comfortable leaving her there for a week that would turn into a lifetime of memories! I cannot praise Camp Grady Spruce for the opportunities that were opened up to my girl and the friendships that will continue to grow as these girls lean closer to one another as time passes. It’s a very special place!

★★★★★Taryn Brown

Our son had an incredible time at camp this summer! All of the activities and fun for the kiddos makes every day exciting and new! When we picked him up the entire 2 hour drive home was filled with stories of all the fun that was had! We cant wait for next year!

★Thomas Warren, Jr.

Do not send your kids here. My niece was diagnosed with staff infection and no staff was competent enough to notify family. She was at the camp for days without any notification. I would advise to see another camp that has skilled nurses on staff and emergency protocol in place. Although she had fun, no parent nor family member should recieve their child in this manner.

★★★★★Ryan Erwin

My daughter has been going to CGS for several years and has always had a wonderful time. She loves everything about camp, but most of all, the counselors. CGS has a CIT (Counselor In Training Program) to mentor and train oncoming / new staff members, and they do a fantastic job. I wish that I had been fortunate enough to be able to go when I was a kid myself, but I'm grateful for the special memories my daughter has made during her time there.