REGIONAL– The YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities recently purchased Timberwolf Lodge and Northern Lights Lodge and Resort on Bear Island Lake to create a second family camp in the Ely area.

The $4.1 million acquisition, located on Highway 21 North between Ely and Babbitt, continues the YMCA’s 162-year tradition of creating access to nature through meaningful outdoor experiences, according to Joan Schimml, senior director of communications and marketing for the Y.

“We are already hosting families this winter and accepting reservations for the summer season,” she said. “This is our second family camp in northern Minnesota, joining Camp Du Nord on Burntside Lake, and part of our effort to expand wilderness opportunities to adults and children.”

Camp du Nord was the Y’s first family camp, opening in 1960, Their waiting list regularly tops 200 in the summer months. The YMCA operates eight overnight camps and 10 day-use camps in Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

Their new Camp Northern Lights sits on 115 acres, features two swimming beach areas on a half-mile of shoreline, a popular fishing lake and 24 lakefront cabins with full kitchens and bathrooms, and decks and/or screened porches.

The Y will be adding eight new tent sites and four new bungalow cabins so it can accommodate as many as 180 guests and 40 staff at one time. “We also plan to add a craft barn, nursery, dining hall and outdoor gathering spaces for sing-a-longs and campfires,” Schimml said.

About $3 million for the purchase came directly from donors. “With YMCA Camp Northern Lights, we are ensuring the Y continues to serve our community with great outdoor experiences for all to enjoy,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities.  “The YMCA is committed to providing everyone opportunities to get away from daily distractions, unplug and enjoy nature year-round.”

The YMCA Summer Family Camp program offers three-, four- and seven-day options. Camp staff lead age-specific programming for a portion of the day and all-family programs in the afternoons and evenings. In addition to family camp, teens 15-18 years old can develop valuable leadership skills through a two-week program that provides hands-on training assisting camp counselors and facilitating programs, according to Schimml.

During the school year, YMCA Camp Northern Lights has seven winterized cabins that are available for a Book Your Own Getaway experience. Families and groups can enjoy groomed ski trails, snowshoeing, hiking and other outdoor adventures.

Northern Lights campers will have access to fishing boats and trained guides, pontoons, kayaks and paddleboards during the warmer months.

Prices for the new family camp range from $550 per week to $3,000 for larger cabins. Financial assistance is available.

The YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  Established 161 years ago, the Y provides life-strengthening services across Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities.

For more information on YMCA Camp Northern Lights and how to register for camp programs, visit http://campnorthernlights.org.