DISCOVER NATURE AND CREATE MEMORIES AT THE Y!
Camp Heartwood Nature Program
Northern York County Branch: Biddeford, Maine
The Camp Heartwood Nature Program is a co-ed day camp offering one week sessions for winter and spring school breaks, and ten one-week sessions each summer, giving children the chance to explore, play, and connect with nature. Like all YMCA camps, we weave our core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility into everything we do.
What makes the Camp Heartwood Nature Program special? Our focus on outdoor play! Our nature-based program invites campers to explore the forests, fields, and trails across our 26-acre property. Nature-themed activities bring extra fun, creativity, and variety to every week, with a special event planned for each session during summer camp. Each day is packed with hands-on environmental activities, nature discovery, swimming, classic camp games, and outdoor fun – rain or shine!
Please note that the Camp Heartwood Nature Program is a primarily outdoor camp. Campers should be ready to explore the outdoors rain or shine (or snow in the winter months).
NEW FOR 2026
SCHOOL BREAKS CAMPS:
SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS: February and April 2026
REGISTRATION OPENS: January 5th, 2026!
February School Break Camp – Wild Winter Week: February 16th - 20th, 2026
April School Break Camp – Spring Explorers: April 20th -24th, 2026
SUMMER CAMP:
SUMMER CAMP RUNS: June 15th - August 21st, 2026
REGISTRATION OPENS: February 9th, 2026!
CAMP BROCHURE:
The Camp Brochure offers a helpful snapshot of everything you can expect this summer – weekly themes, pricing information, details about special guests, camp activities, and registration information. It’s your guide to planning an unforgettable Camp Heartwood Nature Program experience. This summer, we’ve increased spots to welcome even more families from our community!
CAMP READINESS:
We want every camper to have a great experience! Our Camp Readiness Guidelines outline the skills and expectations that help children succeed at camp. We ask all families to read this document before registering to ensure that camp is a good match for your child.
FAMILY HANDBOOK:
For camp policies, schedules, expectations, and parent information, please review our Family Handbook.
CAMP HEARTWOOD REGISTRATION PACKET:
Packet contents include: Camper Information Form, Parent/Guardian Information, Medical History & Health Form, Authorization & Release Forms, Session Selection & Pricing, Payment Information and Director Contact Information.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FAQ:
Do I need to apply for subsidy first?
We ask that you talk with us to help get a better understanding of whether your family would qualify for subsidy. If you would then yes you do need to apply for State Subsidy prior to applying for YMCA financial assistance.
We are not able to calculate YMCA Financial Assistance until your State Subsidy application has been confirmed
How do I apply?
To apply for assistance, you will need to complete a YMCA Financial Assistance Form.
Please note, if you are applying for Financial Assistance, you must submit paper copies of these forms.
Our online system is not able to process assistance. We would be happy to print forms for you if you do not have access to a printer. If you need assistance completing this paperwork, please let us know.
When are YMCA financial assistance forms due?
For Summer Camp May 15th, 2026
Important: You are responsible for full payment of camp fees until State Subsidy or YMCA Financial Assistance are confirmed. The process can take several weeks. We ask that you plan accordingly.
CONTACT US:
Brenda Hamilton, Youth and Family Director
3 Pomerleau St., Biddeford, ME 04005
207-283-0100
bhamilton@ymcaofsouthernmaine.org
Please contact your Program Director if you have any questions about Summer Camp, Financial Assistance and Subsidy, or the registration process.
Join our Summer Team?
Are you or somebody you know interested in working at camp this summer?
Please check out our hiring flyer to find out more info about becoming a role model this summer! We have expanded positions available.
You can apply right on our website! Join Our Team!
