For well over a century, there have been youth camps operating in Wisconsin that offer kids a chance to unplug in the woods and on the water.

Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

Campers jump off the water trampoline at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago last summer.

Every summer for over 100 years, Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago, Wis., has represented a wilderness haven for summer campers. Not even the Great Depression managed to shut down the camp in the 1930s.

Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

Campers pose after crafting at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago in 1930.
Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

A camper unable to escape a splash at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago.
Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

Campers stand outside their tent at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago in 1910.
Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

Campers participate in archery at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago.
Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

Campers participate in archery at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago.
Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

A camper climbs the high ropes cargo net course at Phantom Lake YMCA Camp in Mukwonago.

Zack Goodrow wrote this for the Spring/Summer 2025 edition of Discover magazine, published by APG Media of Southern Wisconsin. Free copies of Discover can be found in locations throughout southern Wisconsin, including at local libraries, visitor centers and Chamber of Commerce and tourism offices. 

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