YMCA Camp Northern Lights is the YMCA of the North's family camp on Bear Island Lake near Babbitt, on the edge of the Superior National Forest. Families attend together for canoeing, sailing, rock climbing, horseback riding, backpacking, archery, swimming, and environmental education; children under 12 must have an adult present. Year-round retreats and cabin stays are also offered.
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 of the North directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Sean ConnorThis is an amazing summer camp full of loving and kind staff, LDPs and friendly families. Our family tries to make it a summer tradition and it is a highlight of our summer when we can go. I recommend a cabin near the main stage/lake if you can get it; our boys love the water trampoline and beach access. Lovely camp and many golden memories made at this sterling camp!
★★★★★Shawn SearsThis camp celebrates diversity!!! ALL are welcome here. We 💚💙this. We feel included and love learning and growing. Thank you Camp Northern Lights for being awesome. You are setting the tone. There is music here. The songs are so good. The staff is full of energy and love. They are here for a reason. It feels goooood to be here.
★★★★★Charles WeissOur family went to Camp Northern Lights this summer.The counselors are really kind, positive, and helpful. We can't wait to go back next summer!!
★★★★★LaCora Bradford KestiCamp Northern Lights is a special place for my family. We have attended a summer session for 3 years and still can't get enough. They have many different housing options, scholarship available, half day age group child care and many fun excursions to do while at camp. I highly recommend it.
★★★★★J ThompsonFantastic family camp programming in the summer months - drop off your kids with their age groups and counselors for 2.5 hours in the am and enjoy the lake and trails in the woods on your own or with other parents - or just read or sleep in for a nice relaxing change. Great facilities and wonderful staff!