Day Camp for Boys and Girls Ages 6-13
At Camp Otter, children spend their days exploring, swimming, learning new skills, and making life-long friends. Located on the sandy shores of Captain’s Pond in Salem, NH, Camp Otter offers weekly themes, a swimming area for both instructional and free swim time, boating, basketball/volleyball courts, a baseball/soccer field, an archery and air rifle range, arts and crafts, ropes courses and more. Daily transportation is provided throughout the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire. Close to major highways, Camp Otter offers a rare setting for appreciation of the outdoors.
Camp Otter provides a variety of activities that will help each camper learn new skills and make new friends in an instructional but non-competitive environment.
Rates & Dates for Summer 2027
Registration Dates
- January 13, 2027 at 9:00am – Registration opens for returning campers and their siblings, and waitlisted campers from the previous season.
- January 20, 2027 at 9:00am – Registration opens for new campers.
Registrations can be done online, by phone at 978-975-1330 or in person at the Camping Services Office at 165 Haverhill Street, Andover, MA.
Camp Rates
Weekly rate: $405
Deposits, Payments and Cancellations
- $50 deposit per week, per camper is due at the time of registration
- Deposits are non-refundable & non-transferable between sessions, siblings or seasons
- Full payment for the tuition balance is due by June 1
- After June 1, tuition balances are non-refundable & non-transferable between sessions, siblings or seasons
- Refunds will only be make in the case of a documented illness of the camper or death of an immediate family member
- No refunds will be issued for absences or inclement weather
- Cancellations must be submitted via email to campinfo@mvymca.org
Weeks & Themes for Summer 2027
Week 1: June 21-25 | Wild West
YEEHAW! Strap on them boots and get ready for a Darn Tootin’ Good Time in the Wild West.
Week 2: June 28 - July 2 | Otter Through The Decades
Start the summer off with a blast from the past years at Otter! Learn the history and traditions while making new memories.
Week 3: July 5-9 | Amazing Animal Week
Immerse yourself in a week full of animal fun! Embrace your cabin animal and learn new facts about the environment we are in every day!
Week 4: July 12-16 | Otter’s Got Talent
Show off your unique abilities all week, everyone has a talent! After some practice, campers will be ready for our Talent Show!
Week 5: July 19-23 | Otterlympics
An Otter tradition! Groups of campers and staff will celebrate other nations as they compete for the gold.
Attention Families: This week is a little different from all of our other themes. Campers will be grouped with a mix of ages and geners and assigned to different countries for the week’s activities. We’re unable to accommodate requests to change countries. Because of the unique format, if you have a new camper, we recommend choosing another week for your camper’s first camp experience. Please reach out with any questions at campotter@mvymca.org
Week 6: July 26-30 | H2Otter
Splish, splash and stay cool in the sun with some refreshing water activities.
Week 7: August 2-6 Counselor in Training Theme Week
Counselors in training take the reins on activities this week, they always have something exciting planned!
Week 8: August 9-13 | All Around the World
Interested in learning about a new country? This week is for you!
Week 9: August 16-20 | Carnival
Practice some of your favorite carnival games and enjoy some tasty fair food during this week’s festivities.
Week 10: August 23-27 | Disney
Come celebrate the summer with a little faith, trust, and pixie dust! Come dressed as your favorite Disney characters.
Activities
Adventure
Campers learn how to work together by participating in group games and by using the Low and High Ropes Course. Campers 10 years old and older will use the High Ropes elements including: the Catwalk, the Dangling Duo, the Giant’s Swing, the Multi-Vine, and the Zip Line.
Archery
Archery is for all age groups and is a favorite camp tradition. Campers learn to use a bow and arrow. Campers learn the fundamentals related to archery under the supervision of a trained instructor.
Arts & Crafts
Campers will bring out their artistic side through painting, drawing, jewelry-making and other projects.
Block Choice
Campers will be given a list of 15 activities each Monday morning, and they must choose three for their block choice periods. Activities may include high ropes, low ropes, archery, swimming, fishing, arts & crafts and much more. During this time campers will not be separated by age and gender, and they will be able to meet more campers through their daily experiences.
Boating
Campers will learn the fundamentals of rowing, canoeing, paddleboarding and kayaking taught by trained lifeguards and instructors certified in small craft safety. Campers must pass a swim test to use the kayaks.
Cabin Time
Campers will use either their cabins or other available areas of camp to participate in group games, teambuilding activities, relaxing, talking or whatever else the group decides. The sky is the limit!
Gaga
This is a camp favorite! Gaga is a form of dodge ball that combines dodging, running and jumping out of the way of the ball.
Game Center
Campers are able to participate in games such as ping pong, carpet ball, bean bag tosses and much more.
Sports Court
Campers can strengthen their skills in basketball, volleyball, hockey and much more.
Sports Field
Campers participate in games such as softball/baseball, kickball, soccer, flag football, etc.
Swimming
Campers will have instructional and/or free swim every day. All swim lessons follow the guidelines and requirements set by the YMCA of USA.
A Day at Camp
8:00am - 8:30am | Drop Off, Buses Arrive |
8:45am - 9:00am | Council Ring |
9:00am - 9:30am | Cabin Choice |
9:35am - 10:20am | Activity Period |
10:25am - 11:10am | Activity Period |
11:15am - 11:55am | Activity Period |
12:00pm - 1:00pm | Lunch |
1:10pm - 2:00pm | Activity Period |
2:10pm - 3:00pm | Activity Period |
3:10pm - 4:00pm | Activity Period |
4:00pm - 4:15pm | Pack up/Cabin Clean up |
4:15pm - 4:30pm | Council Ring |
4:30pm - 5:00pm | Load Buses/ Car Pick-Up |
Packing List
PLEASE LABEL YOUR CAMPER’S POSSESSIONS!
Camp Otter is not responsible for lost or stolen items. All articles brought to camp are the sole responsibility of the camper.
What to Bring to Camp
- Backpack
- Lunch & snacks
- Water bottle
- Bathing suit and towel
- Sunscreen (when possible, please apply before camp)
- Bug spray
- Closed toed shoes (sneakers or crocs)
- Sandals (allowed to be worn at the beach)
- Sweatshirt/long-sleeve shirt (camp is cooler than at home)
- Raincoat or jacket
What NOT to Bring to Camp
- Electronics
- Jewelry or special toys
- Trading cards
- Any other valuables
- Any weapons
Car Transportation
Car drop-off is from 8:00–8:30am and pick-up is from 4:30–5:00pm.
Drop-off/pick-up: Cars will enter the parking lot off Plaisted Circle and proceed to the ball field. Parents/guardians will drop off or pick up their camper(s) and then exit through the front gate.
If you choose car transportation, your camper must use car drop-off and car pick-up for the entire week. Transportation changes must be requested by Thursday prior to the week your camper is attending.
Parents’ Rules for Car Transportation
- Campers are required to check out with parent pick-up staff every afternoon. Parents or other designated adults will be responsible to show I.D. upon checkout.
- Entrance through the front gate is NOT permitted between 4:30pm and 5:00pm.
- If you are dropping off late or picking up early, you must go to the Camp Otter Office and sign your camper in or out. A picture I.D. is required.
- In the event that you are unable to pick up your camper(s) or if your camper(s) is going home with another adult, please email or call in the morning so that we can note the transportation change.
- All transportation changes must be arranged with the Camp Otter Office at least 24 hours in advance.
- If you plan to dismiss your camper early, please do so before 4:00pm to allow the office to focus on camp dismissal at 4:30pm.
Late Pick-Up Fee
Please plan to pick up your child on time. All car riders must be picked up by 5:00pm at Camp Otter. All bus riders must be picked up at the final stops by 5:30pm. If you pick up your child after the designated times listed above, you will be charged $1.00 per minute per child.
Bus Transportation
Bus transportation to and from Camp Otter is included in the weekly rate. Bus stops are available in Andover, North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, Salem, and Windham.
If you choose bus transportation, your camper must use the same bus stop for the entire week, both in the morning and afternoon. Transportation changes must be requested by Thursday prior to the week your camper is attending.
The Camp Otter Director or Assistant Director will remain available until all campers have been picked up.
Scroll down for the bus schedule or click here for a printable version of the bus schedule.
Parents’ Rules for Bus Transportation
- Prior to the first day of camp, please ensure your child knows his/her bus and stop number.
- Parent(s) and camper(s) should arrive at the bus stop at least 10 minutes early.
- All transportation changes must be arranged with the office at least 24 hours in advance.
- If a camper misses his/her stop in the afternoon, he/she will be taken to the last bus stop on his/her route. Parents are responsible for picking up their child there. Because of time constraints buses are unable to turn around to drop off a camper if he/she misses the stop.
- A child will be dropped off at his/her registered stop ONLY IF the parent/guardian is present with proper identification. The bus will wait five minutes and if the parent does not arrive, the child will be transported to the final stop on his/her bus route
Campers’ Rules for Bus Transportation
Please review the following with your child:
- Check in with the bus monitor before getting on or off the bus.
- Get off the bus at your stop only.
- Stay seated at all times.
- Keep hands, arms and body parts inside the bus.
- Do not throw anything out the windows.
- Keep noise to a minimum.
- Do not eat or drink while on the bus.
- Do not touch the emergency door.
- Respect all other campers and staff on the bus.
- Follow all rules given by the bus monitor or driver.
Bus Schedule
Please note that the times listed are estimates. Please allow an additional 10 minutes both in picking up and dropping off.
Bus 1
Stop | Location | Town | AM Time | PM Time |
1 | Andover/N. Andover YMCA | Andover | 7:30am | 5:30pm |
2 | Beacon St. & Mount Vernon St. | Lawrence | 7:45am | 5:15pm |
3 | Riverside Dr. (At loop end) | Andover | 7:55am | 5:05pm |
4 | Camp Otter | Salem | 8:15am | 4:45pm |
Bus 2
Stop | Location | Town | AM Time | PM Time |
1 | Andover/No. Andover YMCA | Andover | 7:30am | 5:30pm |
2 | West Parish Cemetery (Entrance across from West Parish Church) | Andover | 7:45am | 5:15pm |
3 | Marsh Corner Church | Methuen | 8:00am | 5:00pm |
4 | Camp Otter | Salem | 8:15am | 4:45pm |
Bus 3
Stop | Location | Town | AM Time | PM Time |
1 | Andover/No. Andover YMCA | Andover | 7:30am | 5:30pm |
2 | North Andover Youth Center | No. Andover | 7:45am | 5:15pm |
3 | Stevens Memorial Library | No. Andover | 7:55am | 5:00pm |
4 | Camp Otter | Salem | 8:15am | 4:45pm |
Bus 4
Stop | Location | Town | AM Time | PM Time |
1 | Methuen YMCA | Methuen | 7:30am | 5:30pm |
2 | Lawrence YMCA | Lawrence | 7:45am | 5:15pm |
3 | Comprehensive Grammar School | Methuen | 8:00am | 5:00pm |
4 | Camp Otter | Salem | 8:15am | 4:45pm |
Bus 5
Stop | Location | Town | AM Time | PM Time |
1 | Salem Ice Center | Salem | 7:30am | 5:30pm |
2 | Park & Ride/Route 111A | Windham | 7:45am | 5:15pm |
3 | Crossing Life Church | Windham | 7:55am | 5:05pm |
4 | Camp Otter | Salem | 8:15am | 4:45pm |
Financial Assistance for YMCA Camps
At the Merrimack Valley YMCA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience the magic of camp – regardless of their financial situation. Our Financial Assistance Program is made possible through the generous support of donors to the YMCA’s Annual Campaign.
Assistance is available to qualifying families and is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure your child secures a spot at camp, we strongly encourage families to register for camp before applying for financial assistance.
Application Period
Camp Otter: January 1 – April 30
How to Apply
Complete the following forms and refer to the FAQ for additional guidance.
Submit your completed application and required financial documents by email or mail. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed or considered until all required materials are received.
By Email:
campinfo@mvymca.org
By Mail:
Merrimack Valley YMCA Camping Services
165 Haverhill Street
Andover, MA 01810
Testimonials
Camp Otter: Avery Callagy’s Place of Peace
When 7-year-old Avery Callagy was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in February 2024, her family quickly realized how strong their support system was. Throughout treatment, Avery—a resilient and energetic child—found comfort at Camp Otter, her “happy place.” With thoughtful planning from Camp Otter Director Steph Doherty and the camp’s nursing and counseling staff, she was able to attend safely and rest as needed in quiet spaces like “The Nest.” Her family says camp brought her peace, confidence, and much-needed normalcy. Now looking ahead to summer 2025, Avery and her younger brother Greyson are excited to return, with Avery already practicing for the talent show and eager for her favorite activities.
FAQs
Check out our Parent Handbook for in depth information on Camp Otter.
If my camper attends camp with a friend, or a group of friends, can they be in placed in the same cabin?
We understand that campers are excited to share their camp experience with friends! This year, Camp Otter will no longer be accepting cabin mate requests. In most cases, campers who are the same age and gender are naturally placed together, so we expect many friends will be together anyway.
If your camper has a specific need or circumstance you would like to discuss, please email campotter@mvymca.org and our team will be happy to help!
What is the ratio of campers to counselors?
Camp Otter follows American Camp Association (ACA) guidelines for camper-to-counselor ratios. Our ratios are:
- Ages 1–9: 1 adult for every 8 campers
- Ages 9–15: 1 adult for every 10 campers
These ratios help us provide a safe, supportive, and engaging camp experience for all campers.
Can I pick up my child early from camp?
Yes, campers can be picked up and dropped off anytime during the camp day. Please notify the Camp Otter Office at 603-893-4911 if your child is going to be arriving late or leaving early.
What is your transportation policy?
Parents must select the same transportation option for the morning and afternoon (either car pick-up/drop-off or bus pick-up/drop-off). If you are choosing our bus option, the bus number and stop location must be the same in both the morning and afternoon.
Should my child bring a phone or other electronics to camp?
Electronics and phones are prohibited at camp. Camp Otter is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
Where will I pick-up/drop-off my child from the bus?
Parents select the bus route and stop location from our bus schedule this year’s registration card. Please note that times listed are estimates and parents should allow an extra ten minutes both in picking up and dropping off. Children will be dropped off at their registered location only if the parent/guardian is present at the stop. The bus will wait five minutes; however, if the parent/guardian does not arrive, the child will be transported to the Andover/North Andover YMCA at 165 Haverhill Street, Andover, MA 01810.
Does Camp Otter provide lunch for the campers?
No, campers provide their own snacks and lunch. We do have a camp store that is open at various times to purchase beverages and snack foods.
What do you do during rainy days?
On days with inclement weather conditions, the campers participate in pre-planned rainy day activities inside various camp facilities.
When will I be able to see the camp and meet the director?
Each spring we host tours at the camps and in the Merrimack Valley YMCA’s service area. For more information, visit our camp tours page. The Camping Services Office will also notify families about the details of these events.
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