UPDATE: Camp DaKani, one of Oklahoma’s cherished outdoor retreats, is set to reopen in 2026 following a groundbreaking partnership with the Greater Oklahoma City YMCA. The iconic camp, which has been a community staple since 1956, closed its doors in 2025 due to financial struggles exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Camp CEO April Jolley expressed her relief at the new collaboration, stating, “When we had to make the difficult decision to close down, there was an outcry in the community of heartbrokenness and sadness. For us to find a partner that wants to continue this legacy is just overwhelming.”
The Greater Oklahoma City YMCA will take over operations of the camp, aiming to revitalize the 30-acre facility. This initiative not only preserves a beloved outdoor space but also invests in future generations. YMCA Chairman of the Board Bil Snipes emphasized, “We’re not just preserving another beautiful outdoor space; we’re investing in the next generation.”
The camp has been silent since its closure, but plans are underway for a significant facelift. Jolley confirmed that both traditional and expanded programs will resume in the summer of 2026. The camp will now be named Camp DaKani YMCA, signaling a new chapter for the facility.
YMCA President and CEO Kelly Kay remarked, “Camp DaKani has long been a place where children build confidence, discover adventure, and forge lifelong connections with nature, each other, and their community. We’re honored to carry that legacy forward.”
Details regarding registration will be announced this fall, ensuring the community can once again experience the joys of Camp DaKani. While the YMCA will fully operate the camp, Jolley indicated that the original camp organization will remain involved in future decision-making processes.
This revitalization of Camp DaKani is not just a victory for the YMCA but a heartening development for families across Oklahoma, eager for their children to reconnect with nature and community. Stay tuned for more updates as the reopening approaches.
