Helping people grow in spirit, mind, body, and friendship since 1928. YMCA Camp Ernst is the most popular summer camp in the Greater Cincinnati area. Steeped in tradition and built on the YMCA values of honesty, caring, responsibility and respect, Camp Ernst hosts campers who enjoy top-notch counselors and make friends, doing a wide variety of activities including our ropes course, 100 ft waterslide, ropes course, archery, horseback riding, and much more!
My kids loved going to YMCA Camp Ernst. Drop off and pick up was smooth. Great communication from the camp. My kids made life long friends! Would definitely recommend and we’ll be back next year!
DG
Dominica Griffin
Jul 17, 2025
1.0
My son attended this camp from July 13–17, and the experience was extremely disappointing. He was sent home following an issue with another camper who actually provoked the situation—yet only my son faced consequences. When I arrived, his belongings were thrown outside in a way that felt humiliating and unprofessional. The camp director, Eli, discussed personal matters with me loudly in the main lobby instead of in private, showing a lack of discretion. There were also false accusations made against my son without fair investigation. I expected a safe and respectful environment, but this experience was far from it. Very disappointing.
CC
Christy
Jun 21, 2025
5.0
We just picked up our 11-year old daughter from a week of overnight camp. She had a new joy and confidence about her than when we dropped her off, and she chattered on the entire drive home and then some about all the fun activities she did, the friends she made, the great food, the new experiences and even things she learned about herself! This was monumental for her, and we couldn't be happier with this experience. Her counselors were also really caring and kind. The camp director responded very quickly to a few emails I sent at the beginning of the week. This was just phenomenal all around, and our daughter can't wait to return next year. So grateful!!!
EP
Echo Paloma
Jul 15, 2020
5.0
This is the BEST CAMP IVE EVER BEEN TO I’m gonna go next year and for many more!
YMCA Camp Ernst is the most popular summer camp in the Greater Cincinnati area, offering a wide variety of activities such as ropes courses, a 100 ft waterslide, archery, horseback riding, and more, all rooted in YMCA values since 1928.
What are the typical office hours for YMCA Camp Ernst?
The office is typically open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Camp can be accessed by program participants during non-office hours when a program is running.
Where is YMCA Camp Ernst located?
YMCA Camp Ernst is located at 7615 Camp Ernst Road, Burlington, KY 41005, USA.
How can I contact YMCA Camp Ernst?
You can contact YMCA Camp Ernst by phone at +1 859-586-6181 or visit their website at http://www.myycamp.org/ for more information.
What categories of activities or services does YMCA Camp Ernst offer?
YMCA Camp Ernst functions as both a camp and a horse riding school, providing programs focused on spirit, mind, body, and friendship.
Can I visit nearby recreational locations when I go to YMCA Camp Ernst?
Yes, nearby Camp Ernst Lake and Camp Ernst Lake Park offer lakeside outdoor activities and parks that visitors might enjoy before or after their camp experience.
Are there horse riding facilities near YMCA Camp Ernst?
Yes, Windridge Farm is a nearby horse riding and equestrian facility, which could complement your horse riding interests at the camp.
Where can I rent kayaks or boats near YMCA Camp Ernst?
Paddlefishkayakrentals is a nearby rental service offering canoe and kayak hires, which can be a great recreational option in the area.
Is YMCA Camp Ernst accessible during evenings or weekends?
While the office is closed on weekends and outside 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, program participants can access the camp during non-office hours when a program is running.
What values does YMCA Camp Ernst emphasize in its programs?
YMCA Camp Ernst is built on the YMCA values of honesty, caring, responsibility, and respect, fostering growth in spirit, mind, body, and friendship.