Frequently Asked Questions
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in
Sundays
3:00pm-4:00pm
Check-out
Fridays
3:00pm-4:30pm
What do you do Monday-Friday?
We begin each day with a flag raising then breakfast, cabin clean up, actvities, lunch, rest period, more activities, free time, dinner and night activities. Please see our Overnight Daily Bell Schedule for more details.
What activities are spent together as a whole camp?
Our morning and night time patio activities, all meal times, free times, snack station, and most night activities are enjoyed together with all our campers and staff members.
How are campers grouped for housing and activities?
Each cabin houses eight campers and 2-3 counselors and CIT’s. Two or three cabins make up a Unit and attend activities together.
How many campers attend each overnight session?
Camp size varies by session. Most weeks have between 30 and 70 campers, with two of our seven sessions typically hosting 50–60. Some sessions may exceed 100 campers depending on enrollment.
Are the activities different during the two week session?
Yes. While the daily (Monday–Friday) activity schedule stays the same, the two-week session includes additional weekend events and camp traditions. During the weekend, campers have time to rest, enjoy guest speakers and demonstrations, and participate in our Swim Olympics.
The two-week session also includes extra activities like the Y.I. Talent Show, the overnight campout, Kangaroo Court, slip and slide fun, and sunset at Vespers. Many returning campers choose the two-week session, making it our most popular of the summer.
What are the 2026 summer camp sessions and rates for Camp YI?
For 2026, Camp YI offers one-week sessions for $780 and a special two-week session (Session 3) for $1,499. Rates include all activities, meals, a camp t-shirt, and nightly Trading Post snacks. Register now!
What is the age range for campers?
Camp YI is an overnight summer camp for boys and girls ages 8 to 14. We also offer a “Service Camper” program for 15-year-olds and a CIT (Counselor-In-Training) program for students entering 11th and 12th grades.
Where is Camp YI located in LaVergne?
Camp YI is located at the end of Jones Mill Road on a private 175-acre peninsula of Percy Priest Lake in LaVergne, TN. It is approximately 30 minutes southeast of Nashville.
What water sports are available at Camp YI?
Because of our lakefront location, campers enjoy water skiing, kneeboarding, tubing, and canoeing. We also have an on-site swimming pool for daily swim sessions and games.
What are the main outdoor activities?
Signature activities include horseback riding, a 40-foot climbing tower, high and low ropes courses, a giant swing, archery, BB guns, and outdoor living skills.
Is Camp YI a “tech-free camp?
Yes. To encourage community and independence, Camp YI is strictly unplugged. Cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, and wifi-enabled devices are prohibited to allow campers to fully engage with nature.
Is Camp YI accredited?
Yes, Camp YI is ACA Accredited (American Camp Association). This means we voluntarily undergo a thorough review of over 300 standards regarding health, safety, and program quality. Click here to see our official ACA accreditation.
Are there discounts or financial aid available?
We offer a $50 “Paid in Full” discount (if paid by April 15 for July sessions), as well as $35 discounts for siblings, military/first responders, and referrals. 100% discounts are available for volunteer nurses.
What is the staff-to-camper ratio?
We maintain ratios that meet or exceed ACA standards, typically 1 staff member for every 6–8 campers, ensuring personalized attention and a high level of supervision during activities.
What should my child pack for a week at camp?
Essentials include a sleeping bag or twin sheets, a pillow, a water bottle, closed-toe shoes (required), long pants for horseback riding, swimwear, sunscreen, bug spray, and a flashlight. See full packing list here.
Can my child request a cabin mate?
Yes. During registration, parents can request one cabin mate of the same age/grade. While not guaranteed, we make every effort to keep friends together to ensure a comfortable transition to camp life.