Camp Histories

It's fascinating to hear the stories and understand our legacy of our three YMCA Camps!

Click on the links to the left to learn more of how our camps came to be.  Each link captures the distant past and the more recent contributions of staff, donors and volunteers.

Marston carries the longest legacy, founded in 1921.  Did you know that during World War II, Marston was placed at the disposal of the Civilian Defense Center for possible evacuation of childrens agencies?

Raintree Ranch was acquired in 1968, along with two 40-acre land parcels.  Did you know that the old Ranch House was once a Bed & Breakfast?  Or that the original home was owned by a famous Hollywood Make-Up Artist?

Camp Surf was founded in 1969, thanks to the leadership of Valentine Hoy, Captain Bill Fargo, Dick Mason and others.  The word S.U.R.F. is an acronym for "San Diego Unified Recreation Facility".   In leasing this precious land to the Y, the United States Navy saw the benefit of many non-profit, youth-serving organizations being able to experience this wonderful place.