The River Crossing YMCA is Central Bucks County’s largest summer camp network — and one of the best values in the region. With branches spread across Doylestown, Quakertown, Warminster, New Hope-Solebury, Fairless Hills, and Holland, there’s a good chance a YMCA camp is within easy driving distance of your home. This guide breaks down exactly what each branch offers so you can find the best fit for your child.
Why the YMCA Is Worth a Serious Look
The YMCA’s summer camp model has three big selling points that set it apart from private camps. First, financial assistance is available — if cost is a barrier, ask about camperships. Second, the River Crossing YMCA branches all use weekly themes (think Wild West, Great Outdoors, Science Week, Sports Mania, Eras Exploration) that keep kids engaged all summer without repetition. Third, many branches offer half-day, full-day, and before/after care options, making scheduling genuinely flexible for working families.
River Crossing YMCA Branches — What Each Offers
Doylestown YMCA — Camp Bucks (The Flagship)
The Doylestown branch is the largest and most comprehensive. Camp Bucks runs June 15 – August 27, 2026 — the longest season of any branch — and serves a wide age range from 3-year-olds through high schoolers. Here’s the lineup:
- Jr. Adventure Camp (ages 3–5): Gentle introduction to camp with structured play, art, and movement
- Adventure Camp (Kindergarten – 7th Grade): The core day camp experience with rotating activities, themed weeks, and group bonding
- Aqua Bucks (K–3): A swim-focused half-day camp for kids who love the water — includes water safety and stroke development
- Ability Camps: Adaptive and inclusive programming for differently-abled youth, offered across multiple branches
- Teen Travel (Grades 6–8): Off-site trips and adventures that give older kids independence and new experiences
- CIT Program (Grades 8–10): Counselor-in-Training for teens who want leadership experience
- Empower U: A girls-only confidence and leadership program
- Sports and Specialty Camps: Esports, tech, and more for kids with specific interests
Hours: Full Day 9 AM–4 PM; Half Day 9 AM–12 PM or 12:30–3:30 PM; extended care available 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM. Early-bird pricing was available through May 4; member and sibling discounts apply year-round.
Location: 2500 Lower State Road, Doylestown, PA 18901 | Phone: 215-348-8131 | ymcarivercrossing.org
Quakertown YMCA
The Quakertown branch offers a strong program for Grades 1–6, with both 3-day and 5-day full-day options — a nice middle ground if your child isn’t ready for five days a week. Programming includes Y STEM, Adventure Camp, art, dance, cartoon creation, building, cooking, and a swim camp. Indoor swimming happens five days a week.
Location: 401 Fairview Avenue, Quakertown, PA | ymcarivercrossing.org
Warminster YMCA — Camp Bucks
The Warminster branch serves ages 3–15+ with the same Camp Bucks adventure camp model, specialty programs, and themed weeks as Doylestown. A strong choice for families in the Warminster, Horsham, and Hatboro corridors.
Location: 624 York Road, Warminster, PA 18974 | ymcarivercrossing.org
New Hope-Solebury YMCA
The New Hope-Solebury branch is a great fit for families in the New Hope, Solebury, and Upper Bucks corridor. Programming covers K–2nd Grade and older campers with sports, games, arts, music, swimming, and science. Pizza Fridays are a beloved tradition. Extended care options are available.
Fairless Hills & Holland Branches
Both branches follow the standard River Crossing YMCA day camp model with age-appropriate groupings, swimming, and the signature weekly theme weeks. Ideal for families in Lower Bucks and the I-95 corridor.
Ability Camps — Inclusive Programming Across Branches
The River Crossing YMCA offers specialized Ability Camps for differently-abled youth and teens at multiple branch locations. Staff are trained in adaptive and inclusive programming, and financial assistance is available for qualifying families. If your child has special needs and you’re looking for a mainstream camp with proper support, this is one of the strongest options in the county.
Hatboro YMCA (Greater Philadelphia Y)
The Hatboro branch at 3300 Davisville Road is part of the Greater Philadelphia YMCA system rather than River Crossing, but serves the same Central Bucks/North Penn corridor. It offers sports, swim, cooking classes, and traditional day camp programming for multiple age groups.
Tips for Registering at the YMCA
Become a member first. YMCA members receive discounted camp rates that often more than pay for the annual membership fee. If you plan to use the Y for camps, classes, or the gym, membership is almost always worth it.
Ask about financial assistance. The YMCA’s campership program provides assistance for families who qualify. Apply early in the spring, as funding is limited.
Early-bird pricing. Each branch posts early-bird deadlines (typically April or May). If you know you’re going YMCA, register in late winter to capture the discount.
Confirm your branch’s specific schedule. Session start dates, available themes, and specialty camp offerings vary by branch. Always check your specific branch page rather than the system-wide page for the most accurate info.
More Summer Camp Guides for Central Bucks Families
The YMCA is a great choice for many families, but it’s not the only one. Browse our full 2026 camp series: Full-Season Day Camps, Nature and Outdoor Camps, STEM and Coding Camps, Music Camps, and Sports Camps.