Pipe Dream. Even an article in the San Diego Union Tribune scoffed at the idea of creating a YMCA beach camp on Navy property. It was an innovative solution to expanding the Y’s service to the youth of San Diego, yet there were obstacles to overcome. Miraculously, a small group of dedicated people secured the first 5-year license for the camp in 1969. For the next 50 years both volunteers and staff navigated challenges in funding, facility, programming, and the unique consequences of being located on federal land. It is a storied history of people, place, and programs that collectively create the adventure now known as YMCA Camp Surf. This is the history of YMCA Camp Surf.