YMCA of the Ozarks News

Join Our Flickr Groups!

webmaster — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:47:04 -0500

We love seeing pictures taken by our guests. Join our Flickr groups to share with us what you’ve captured at YMCA Trout Lodge and Camp Lakewood!

A Day In the Life of Bubbles

webmaster — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:21:56 -0500

Bubbles is our very own Trout Lodge mascot. He’s a big, lovable, life-size trout who likes to visit our guests occasionally.

Camp Lakewood is Open

webmaster — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:49:10 -0500

Amidst H1N1 concerns at other camps in the state, we'd like to assure you that Camp Lakewood is open, and that precautions are taken at Camp Lakewood to create a safe and healthy camping experience.

You Know You're At Camp When...

webmaster — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:08:47 -0500

It’s hard for “camp people” to explain how amazing camp is to “non-camp people.” Every year, the staff has a yearbook in which they have the opportunity to add to the section, “You know

YMCA of the Ozarks Alumni Reunion

webmaster — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:40:01 -0500

You may be out in the “real world,” but you can never forget the memories created at YMCA Trout Lodge and Camp Lakewood. Now you can re-visit them all.

Happy Father's Day!

webmaster — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:42:50 -0500

From all of us at YMCA Trout Lodge and Camp Lakewood, happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!

Summer Concert Series

webmaster — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:37:34 -0500

Usually I leave the blogging to Saca, but today I thought I'd tell you something you may not know about Trout Lodge...

Intergenerational Weekend Brings Families Together

webmaster — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:46:04 -0500

Grandparents and grandchildren spent an awesome weekend together at YMCA Trout Lodge.

Main Camp Sessions 6-8 and Teen Camp Sessions 5-6 & 7-8 Special Rate

webmaster — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:42:41 -0500

Sacagawea here, and I just got word from MelG that Sessions 6-8 of Main Camp are now just $349 and Sessions 5-6 & 7-8 of Teen Camp are $700, new registrations only.

YMCA Trout Lodge Summer Concert Series Begins Tonight.

webmaster — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 15:54:09 -0500

The Kevin Mitchell 4 Band kicks off the Trout Lodge Summer Concert Series. Listen to high energy versions of Frank Sinatra, George Gerswhin, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennet and more!

Camp Director, Jon Evans, Hands-On With Yoga Clinic

webmaster — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:49:15 -0500

Running Camp Lakewood might keep Camp Director Jon Evans busy, but he still makes time to help during the yoga clinic at

Camp Lakewood Rangers Program Teaches Wilderness Survival.

webmaster — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:05:39 -0500

No one can deny that the Camp Lakewood Rangers are hardcore.

Session 2 Camp Lakewood Starting Strong Despite Afternoon Showers.

webmaster — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 09:45:53 -0500

A little rain during check-in yesterday didn't slow down Camp Lakewood!

Session One of Camp Lakewood Was Awesome.

webmaster — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 12:32:22 -0500

Campers have just left Camp Lakewood, all with smiles plastered to their faces.

Campers Had A Blast At The Explorer and East Camp Cookout

webmaster — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 10:26:18 -0500

After my cabin created beautiful tie dye shirts and socks, we headed up to East Camp for the Explorer-East Camp Cookout.

Clinics Are In Full Swing At Camp Lakewood

webmaster — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 10:16:45 -0500

Clinics started Tuesday, and although there has been a little rain, that hasn't stopped any of the fun!

Kickball Galore

webmaster — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 10:25:06 -0500

Last night, the Explorers unit played a massive game of kickball. This was just one of the many activities that went on during the Explorers' "Carnival and Cookout."

My First Day Back at Camp Lakewood

webmaster — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:18:02 -0500

Camp Lakewood is the best camp ever.

Get to Know Your 2009 Camp Counselors!

webmaster — Sat, 30 May 2009 19:57:28 -0500

YMCA Camp Lakewood's 2009 camp counselors come from several countries and several regions in the United States.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

webmaster — Thu, 28 May 2009 13:36:54 -0500

So I made a short visit to Camp Lakewood today.

Sacagawea is going to Camp Lakewood!

webmaster — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:29:22 -0500

I may be out in the "real world," but I'm going back to Camp Lakewood!

We're starting a blog!

webmaster — Tue, 26 May 2009 17:26:22 -0500

Hello there! Welcome to the YMCA of the Ozarks blog!

YMCA Trout Lodge Staff Train for Lost Swimmer

webmaster — Thu, 21 May 2009 16:20:38 -0500

YMCA Trout Lodge lifeguards undergo a rigorous training process and maintain a conditioning schedule throughout the summer in order to effectively perform in a waterfront emergency.

17th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, May 18

webmaster — Tue, 19 May 2009 12:18:49 -0500

Thank you to all of the golfers and sponsor who made the 17th Annual Charity Golf Tournament a success!

YMCA Employees Invited to YMCA Trout Lodge

webmaster — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:12:58 -0500

In the summer of 2009, every employee of the YMCA receives 50% off of their household vacation to YMCA Trout Lodge.

Camp Lakewood houses over 130 AmerenUE Workers After May 8 Storm

webmaster — Sun, 10 May 2009 14:13:16 -0500

After a long day of restoring power to the Washington County and surrounding residents, over 130 AmerenUE workers rolled into Camp Lakewood. Trucks poured in until around 2 a.m. Saturday morning. These men and women have been working relentlessly to give the area electricity all weekend.

YMCA Trout Lodge Summer Specials!

webmaster — Fri, 08 May 2009 23:25:55 -0500

Save 50% on your vacation May 25-28 OR in June, July and August, kids stay free. Did we mention that we're offering you a Memorial Day Special?

YMCA Camp Lakewood parents get a special summer YMCA Trout Lodge offer, too!

Volunteer Work Day, May 9

webmaster — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 14:34:42 -0500

YMCA of the Ozarks, Trout Lodge will hold its 12th Volunteer Work Day from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, May 9. Community residents, school groups, scout troops and service organizations are invited to participate.

Phoenix Band at Trout Lodge Memorial Day Weekend

webmaster — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 09:23:17 -0500

As if Memorial Day Weekend at Trout Lodge weren't already rockin' enough, we've just booked Phoenix Band for a live performance at the lodge on May 24th, during Memorial Day Weekend.

Healthy Kids Day Saturday, April 18

webmaster — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 11:21:15 -0500

On Saturday, April 18, YMCA Trout Lodge celebrates Healthy Kids Day. Health screenings will be provided by Washington County Hospital, and physical activities such as ultimate frisbee, capture the flag, and family races will be offered.

Thanks To Our Work Day Volunteers, Camp Lakewood Is In Great Shape!

webmaster — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 11:16:12 -0500

The Camp Lakewood Volunteer Work Day was a great success! Thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers for coming to help with getting camp ready for summer 2009.

Camp Lakewood Open House

webmaster — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:59:23 -0500

Curious about what summer camp at Camp Lakewood is like? Bring your mom or dad for a Camp Open House on Sunday, April 12 or Sunday, May 3, from 1:30-3:30pm.

Open Houses will give you a sneak peak of what camp is like, and you'll get to meet your Camp Directors, Jon and Brad.

Easter Sunday Sunrise Service

webmaster — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 09:25:31 -0500

Join us for our Easter Sunday Sunrise Service, April 12, at the YMCA Walker Chapel. This non-denominational service will be held from 6:30-7:30am.

Mark Boyster will act as our Chaplain and music will be performed by Christian Crossroads (Jimmy Gillam and Southern Gospel Band). After the service, you’re more than welcome to have buffet-style breakfast with us for just $7.95 per person.

Spring Soccer Registration Now Open

webmaster — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:03:26 -0500

YMCA Spring 2009 Soccer Clinic registration is now open for students in kindergarten through 6th grade.

Clinics will be held from 5:00-6:00 p.m. in the YMCA gymnasium on Tuesday evenings in April (April 7, 14, 21 and 28).

A $5.00 registration fee applies (total cost, covers all four clinics).

To register, download the registration form and mail or fax attention Nora Witbrodt:

Bass Fishing Tournament Opens at Trout Lodge

webmaster — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:17:05 -0500

Craig Cresswell and Gary Mercer won the first YMCA Trout Lodge Bass Fishing Tournament of 2009 on Thursday night, taking home the "Big Fish" title as well.

Thursday evening’s tournament was the first of ten tournaments to be held at YMCA Trout Lodge each Thursday evening from March 12 through May 14, 2009.

New Nature Center Offers a Fun and Interactive Learning Experience

webmaster — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 16:46:17 -0500

The Nature Center had its grand opening March 6-8, 2009. The newly constructed building houses several animals and reptiles, along with interactive and educational displays.

Special Spring Break Rates!

webmaster — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 13:17:11 -0600

Special Spring Break nightly rates:

Guest room: $130
Loft room: $150
Cabin: $200

Rates are for new reservations only and
include up to 2 adults and 3 kids (12 & under).

Take a vacation close to home, and bring the whole family to Trout Lodge for Spring Break! Be the first to preview our summer theme days!

Monday - Blast-from-the Past

Spend a Romantic (and Affordable) Valentine’s Getaway at Trout Lodge, February 13-15

webmaster — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 13:17:29 -0600

Showing your loved one how much you care doesn’t have to cost a fortune. At Trout Lodge, our Valentine’s weekend is an affordable and cozy getaway jam-packed with romantic and fun activities.

New Cell Tower At YMCA Trout Lodge & Camp Lakewood Provides “5 bars” Cell Phone Service To Guests and the Local Community

webmaster — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 12:59:41 -0600

In 2007, wireless Internet opened a new arena of communication at YMCA of the Ozarks. The service allowed corporate groups to conduct business while on peaceful, teambuilding retreats and stay in communication with their families. Families gained the ability to keep up with the score of the Cardinals game, surf the web or mapquest a quicker route home.

Missouri Tourism Commercial Filmed at Trout Lodge

webmaster — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:38:08 -0500

It seemed like a regular Thursday morning at Trout Lodge, until the four Enterprise-rented commercial trucks hauling thousands of dollars of video equipment parked at the waterfront.

Halloween at Trout Lodge

webmaster — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:23:15 -0500

This season, Trout Lodge is bringing you some of the most entertaining and spooky Halloween events you're family can possibly enjoy!

Haunting Tales and Camp Legends
October 18-19

Hawkins Family Program Pavilion Dedication

webmaster — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:27:02 -0500

Thanks to the generosity of Ted & Doris Hawkins, this much-needed program space was designed and constructed to meet the needs of families and to serve as the hub of guest program areas. This 42ft x 80ft handicapped-accessible space is ideal for many outdoor programs, protecting from both the hot summer sun and inclement weather.

Community Programs - Register Now for Fall Soccer!

webmaster — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 14:40:01 -0500

Register now for youth fall soccer. For boys and girls Pre-K through 6th grade. Season begins September 2. Click here for more details...

Special Performance by St. Louis Arches & Galilee Circus on August 4th!

webmaster — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:13:35 -0500

The Circus Day Foundation and a collaboration of the St. Louis Arches and the Galilee Circus troupe will be performing at Trout Lodge on the evening of August 4, 2008.

Peace through Pyramids
The Galilee Arches

Day Passes Are Not Available From June 30 - July 5

webmaster — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:00:06 -0500

Due to a private facility-wide rental, day passes will not be available from June 30 - July 5, 2008.

Kids Stay FREE in June & July!

webmaster — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:26:08 -0500

Kids stay free at Trout Lodge Sunday through Thursday nights in June & July. (Now through July 31, 2008.)

Kids ages 12 & under are free, with a limit of 3 free kids per reservation. For new reservations only. Not good with any other offer, coupon or discount. Subject to availability.

read more

Don't Miss FaithFest on September 5-7, 2008

webmaster — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:12:54 -0500

Bring your family or your group to celebrate your faith at our non-denominational FaithFest. Special weekend and day pass rates are available. Enjoy Christian bands & music, Christian Clowning Ministry, and Speakers (topics include personalities & how to interact as Christians).
Learn more...

Trout Lodge Featured in Good Housekeeping Magazine

webmaster — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:05:49 -0500

Trout Lodge is featured in Good Housekeeping Magazine in an article titled, "Best Family Vacation Destinations." To read the article, click here.

16th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

webmaster — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:23:13 -0500

Join us for our 16th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on
Monday, May 19, 2008.

All proceeds are used to provide scholarships for Camp Lakewood to underprivileged children.

You may participate by:
• Playing
• Sponsoring a hole
• Donating prizes

To learn more about the tournament and how to register,

read more

Women's Wellness Weekend Has Been Rescheduled to May 2-4, 2008

webmaster — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:42:56 -0600

Due to the inclement weather and hazardous driving conditions in our area, Women's Wellness Weekend, which was scheduled for February 22-24, 2008 has been rescheduled to May 2-4, 2008.

read more

Spring Break Rates Extended Through April 30, 2008!

webmaster — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:51:30 -0600

Take advantage of special rates and activities and enjoy a preview of our summer theme days*: (click on each day to download a pdf of the special activities):

*Special rates will be offered March 14 -April 30, 2008. Daily themes will be offered March 14-30, 2008.

Fired-Up Friday

read more

Special Rates for Valentine's Weekend!

webmaster — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 11:59:01 -0600

Your Valentine's celebration will be even sweeter with special rates at Trout Lodge.

$250 for a guest room or $300 for a cozy cabin

read more

Girl Scout Weekend

webmaster — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 13:13:02 -0600

Join us at YMCA Trout Lodge and Camp Lakewood for our Girl Scout Weekend on March 7-9, 2008. The programs and activities offered during this weekend are intended to assist Girl Scouts (4th grade and up) in fulfilling their badge requirements. Scouts will not earn badges on this weekend, but they will gain skills and experience toward completion of badges and interest projects.

read more

Don't Forget to Register for Winter Camp!

webmaster — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 13:29:03 -0600

Don't forget to register for Winter Camp, which will be held on December 27-30, 2007! You may register as long as we have space available, but you may not receive a t-shirt if you don't register prior to December 10, 2007. We can't promise snow, but we can promise three fun-filled days jam-packed with activities and an opportunity to reconnect with friends from summer camp.

read more

View Thanksgiving Photos Now!

webmaster — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 12:34:59 -0600

The Trout Lodge family would like to extend a big thank you to our extended family who joined us for this year's Thanksgiving celebration. Thanksgiving at Trout Lodge has been a long-standing tradition for many families and is being established as a new tradition for many more. We hope you will continue to spend this special holiday with us year after year.

read more

Adventure Race National Championship at Trout Lodge

webmaster — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 09:16:59 -0500

Temperatures were in the low 20's this morning, but the adrenaline was running high in the 75 teams who qualified for the GoLite Championship Race. Trout Lodge is playing host to the teams and support staff for the annual race. Following their 24-hour trek, the winning team will be announced Saturday, November 3 at the awards ceremony, which will be held in the Camp Lakewood Dining Hall.

read more

Welcome to Our New Website!

webmaster — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 13:10:05 -0500

We are excited to share our new website with you and would love to hear what you think. Please let us know if you have any questions or comments that you would like to share by email:
b17marketing@ymcastlouis.org

Trout Lodge Offers Single Parent Rates for November Weekends

webmaster — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:27:23 -0500

For the following four weekends in November, single parents can stay for just $78 per night in a guest room. Children ages 13 and under are free (limit of 3 free per reservation); ages 14-17 are $50 per night.

Science & Nature
November 9-11
November 16-18

Renaissance
November 23-25

Trout Lodge Christmas

read more

Winter Camp 2007

webmaster — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 13:51:35 -0500

We can’t promise snow, but we can promise three fun-filled days jam-packed with activities and an opportunity to reconnect with friends from summer camp. Join us for Winter Camp at Camp Lakewood from December 27 - 30, 2007.
Download a registration form now.