by Lisa Ontai
When Nathan Winston was just seven years old, he experienced something magical that forever changed his life: YMCA Camp H.R. Erdman. For years, Nathan had eagerly watched his older siblings leave for the beachfront camp nestled between the Waianae Mountains and Mokuleia’s pristine beaches, and when his moment finally came when he turned 7, it did not disappoint. From singing and laughing at the campfire songs and skits to exploring the great outdoors and making lifelong friends, Nathan’s love for Camp Erdman was immediate.
After his very first week at camp, Nathan cried—not because he was sad to leave home, but because he didn’t want his time at camp to end. He begged his parents to let him return, and his persistence worked. “Several years in a row, I would go home for the weekend and go right back for the next session,” Nathan recalls. That summer marked the beginning of many more summers of back-to-back sessions, each filled with unforgettable memories and transformative experiences.
Today, as a counselor at Camp Erdman, Nathan helps the next generation of campers create their own magical experiences. “I see that same magic and love for Camp Erdman every single week,” he says. “Whether it’s from kids who come every year or from the kids who arrive nervous and homesick, only to leave with huge smiles and some tears as they’re leaving their home away from home. And that is what is so special about Camp Erdman; it becomes a home.”
A Day in the Life of a Camper
From the moment the sun rises, campers embark on a full day of engaging activities and personal growth. Mornings start with an oli (Hawaiian chant) that sets the tone for the day by emphasizing Hawaiian values like aloha (love and compassion) and kuleana (responsibility). This daily ritual fosters a sense of belonging and cultural connection.
After breakfast, campers get to dive into their chosen activities. Mornings are spent in “camper’s choice” activities, where kids can perfect their aim in archery, create masterpieces in arts and crafts, or learn survival skills and more—all designed to build confidence, foster teamwork, and ignite curiosity. Some campers will head off to specialty camps, which families can select during registration to allow kids to immerse themselves in unique experiences tailored to their interests.
Specialty camps include Surf Camp, where campers learn to ride the waves; Horse Camp, offering an introduction to grooming, tacking, and riding; Adventure Camp, which takes campers on thrilling excursions such as snorkeling at Pupukea Beach, stand-up paddleboarding in Waimea Valley, and hiking the ‘Ehukai Pillbox; Cooking with Aloha, where kids explore Hawaiian culinary traditions; and ‘Ike Hawaii Camp, a cultural experience that includes learning about Hawaiian history, practicing wilderness survival skills, and visiting Waimea Valley.
Afternoons are filled with outdoor exploration and hands-on learning. Campers may tackle the Alpine Tower, hike, or participate in team challenges. These activities encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones while discovering the beauty of the North Shore’s natural environment.
Evenings bring the entire camp together for fun. Campfire songs, talent shows, and themed dances create lasting memories, while cabin discussions reinforce the values learned throughout the day. As Nathan says, “By the end of the week, most kids—if not all—leave with huge smiles and maybe even a few tears because they’ve had such an amazing time.”
The Transformative Impact of Camp Erdman
Camp Erdman isn’t just about fun; it’s about transformation.
For younger campers, it’s a chance to develop independence and make new friends. For teens, leadership programs like Leaders in Training (LIT) and Camp Assistant (CA) offer opportunities to grow into confident leaders. These programs, which include team-building activities, mentorship, and service projects, equip teens with skills they can carry into adulthood.
School Groups, Outdoor Learning, and Retreats
Camp Erdman offers more than just summer programs. School groups can enjoy hands-on, outdoor education tailored for grades 1-12, fostering teamwork and curiosity through activities like tide pool exploration and climbing the Alpine Tower. Additionally, businesses, churches, and organizations can host retreats in this idyllic North Shore setting, with flexible packages to suit various needs.
Family Camp: A Shared Adventure
Even families experience the magic of Camp Erdman. Family Camp offers an unforgettable opportunity for parents and children to experience Camp Erdman together. Family Camp “staycations” provide a weekend of reconnection and relaxation, offering everything from archery and swimming to campfires and s’mores. “It’s amazing to watch parents and kids put down their phones and interact with each other,” Nathan shares. “They leave stronger and more connected.”
With accommodations ranging from oceanfront yurts to private cabins, families enjoy a weekend immersed in nature, away from the distractions of everyday life. All meals and activities are included, and the themes—like Family Wellness, Love and Art, and Halloween—make each weekend unique. Whether it’s conquering the ropes course as a team or sharing stories by the campfire, Family Camp is a chance to bond, recharge, and create lasting memories.
Making Camp Accessible to All
Camp Erdman’s mission is to ensure that every child has access to its life-changing experiences, regardless of financial circumstances. Thanks to generous donors, through need-based financial aid, families can send their children to camp, ensuring no one misses out on the opportunity to grow, explore, and connect. As Nathan reflects, “Some kids come from backgrounds where they don’t get three meals a day. Camp offers them more than just food and fun; it gives them confidence, friends, memories that last a lifetime, and knowing that they matter.”
Discover All That Camp Erdman Offers
Overnight Summer Camps:
- Traditional overnight camp for kids ages 7-17 (completed grades 1-10)
- Leadership programs for teens: Leaders in Training (ages 14-17) and Camp Assistants (ages 16-17)
- Specialty add-ons like Adventure Camp, Climbing Camp, Cooking with Aloha Camp, Horse Camp, Ike Hawaii Camp, Resilience Camp, Surf Camp, and Sampler Camp – enjoy the best of all Specialty Camps.
Mini Overnight Camp:
- A 4-day, 3-night option for first-time campers (ages 5-17)
Family Camps:
- Themed weekend camps with accommodations, meals, and activities for all ages are available year round
Camp Discounts:
- Active Military – Save 10%
- YMCA of Honolulu Family Members – Save 15%
- Save 5% when 2 or more siblings attend camp
- Need-based financial aid available to ensure access for all.
Private Rentals:
- Beachfront yurts and cabins for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful getaway
Reserve your Spot for Just a $1 Deposit!
Register your child or teen for a summer camp session (or two!) now for just $1 deposit. Or better yet, the YMCA offers a 9-week value package that includes 8 weeks of Day Camp at Y location of your choice and then a week at Camp Erdman, so your child will be happy, active, and engaged all summer long!
Also, consider treating your family to a Family Camp weekend or a North Shore staycation in a beachfront yurt.
Camp Erdman is more than just a camp—it’s a place where kids and families discover their best selves, connect with nature, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Join the Camp Erdman ‘ohana and experience the magic for you and your family! Visit camperdman.org to learn more and reserve your spot today.
