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City West Journal

 
Camp Echo opens Summer 2026 registration with new session options
Monique Parsons, President and CEO of McGaw YMCA | Mcgaw YMCA

Camp Echo has announced the schedule and registration details for its Summer 2026 programs. Registration for both Youth Camp and Family Camp will open at the same time, with an Early Registration Lottery running from December 2 through noon on December 9. Open enrollment will start on January 6.

The camp season will begin over Memorial Day Weekend with Family Camp, followed by Youth Camp sessions starting in early June. All Youth Camp sessions are scheduled to run from Sunday through Friday. The Traditional Camp season will open with three one-week sessions, while Session 2 is set as a two-week option specifically for Teen & Adventure Trip programs.

There will not be a two-week Traditional Camp program from June 14–26. However, campers can register for both Session 2A and Session 2B to create their own two-week experience, including an optional stayover between sessions for an additional fee.

Session dates and grade-level offerings for Youth Camp are available on the Dates & Rates page, while Family Camp session dates can be found on the Family Camp page. Rates for all programs in 2026 are expected to be posted by November 3.

Camp Echo encourages families to consider early summer dates (Sessions 1-3) when planning with friends. These sessions have seen lower demand during previous early registration periods, making it easier to enroll in limited-capacity Teen Programs or coordinate attendance with friends.

The camp continues its commitment to affordability by offering three pricing options, a monthly auto-draft payment plan, and a pay-as-you-go choice. Sliding-scale fee assistance is also available.

A Virtual Info Night is scheduled for October 21 from 6:00–7:00 p.m., where families can learn about upcoming youth program highlights and get tips for the Early Registration Lottery.

"Due to high demand, early registration is strongly recommended for Camp Echo’s 2026 season," according to the announcement. "The Early Registration Lottery will be open from December 2 through 12:00 p.m. (CST) on December 9. This is a great opportunity for both returning and new campers to secure a spot in Youth Camp and Family Camp programs."

"Please note: the lottery is not first come, first served—you may submit your application anytime during the 8-day window. To increase your chances, especially for Teen Programs, be sure to rank multiple preferred sessions when applying."

For more information about registration and camp details, interested families can visit the Register for Camp webpage.