We know how important it is to feel connected while your camper is away. At YMCA Camp Lakewood, we make it easy for families to keep in touch, see what’s happening at camp, and share in the fun, while still giving campers the chance to grow in independence and confidence.
Here’s how you can stay involved during your camper’s session!
Watch Camp in Action 🎥
We upload weekly wrap-up videos to the Gateway Region YMCA YouTube channel for each session with all the best highlights! Check out our videos from 2025 below.
See Camp Through Photos
Photos are one of the best ways to glimpse what’s happening at camp. We upload daily snapshots to our online gallery service, Waldo. Your access code will be given at check-in—make sure you keep this code private, as only people you approve should be given access. Please guard every child's privacy. Need help? You can email campsupport@waldophotos.com any time you have a question.
At Camp Lakewood, we believe camp is a powerful time for kids to build independence, confidence, and resilience. The photos we share capture moments in time — but they don’t tell the whole story of your camper’s experience. Please try not to overanalyze expressions or single snapshots. Trust that our caring staff are there to support, encourage, and celebrate your camper every step of the way!
Send Mail & Messages to Your Camper
Letters
Campers love to receive a handwritten note from home. We distribute mail each afternoon. Because transit to camp can take time, we recommend sending letters at least one week before your camper’s session start. Mail arriving after your camper leaves will be returned to the sender. Mail is not distributed on the first or last day of camp.
Your camper will also have the chance to send letters home. Be sure they pack stationery, envelopes, a pencil, and stamps! If your camper doesn't know their home address, it can be helpful to pre-address envelopes for them before they go to camp.
Mailing Address Format (example):
Your Camper’s Name & Cabin / Session
YMCA Camp Lakewood
13528 State Hwy AA
Potosi, MO 63664
Happy Camper Kit
Get your camper excited for an unforgettable summer at YMCA Camp Lakewood with our Happy Camper Kit! This thoughtfully curated care package is packed with fun and engaging items to help them bond with cabinmates and create lasting memories. Each kit includes age-appropriate games, a journal for reflecting on their adventures, colorful stickers for decorating, and more surprises that encourage creativity and connection.
Delivered on their first day of camp, the Happy Camper Kit takes the work off your hands, ensuring your child starts their camp experience with everything they need for fun and friendship!
Cost: $50
Note: Can be added through your online registration account.
Packages
We do not recommend sending excessive packages that will be cumbersome in their shared cabins or distract from their camp activities. We also don't recommend sending gum, candy, snacks, or other goodies that might attract mice or ants to the cabins!
Emails/CamperMail
If you prefer a digital option, you may send a one-way email to your camper at campermail@gwrymca.org. Please use the subject line “Camper's First and Last Name + Cabin Number” so we can route it properly. Emails are printed and delivered daily to campers.
Note: Campers do not have computer or email access while at camp, so they cannot respond directly.
Deadlines: Emails must arrive by noon (12:00 PM) on the final full day of your camper’s session to be printed and delivered.
Get Regular Updates
Email Newsletters
We send session wrap-up emails to families with highlights, as well as emails with important reminders and other need-to-know information prior to your child's session.
Frequent visitor of Trout Lodge and former camper, now father of a camper. Dropoff is easy. Counselors and staff are great as expected. Overjoyed by the new photo albums where camp photographers share photos of events for parents to grab!
— Benjamin
Went there as a kid and have sent kids there. It’s an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives, maybe make some life-long friends too!