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YMCA of the National Capital Region

YMCA of the National Capital Region logo
 

YMCA of the National Capital Region  


  • Type:
    Day camp, Overnight camp, Family programs
  • Focus:
    Traditional (multi activity)
  • Cost:
    $320 to $895/week
  • Ages:
    4 to 16
  • Gender:
    Coed, All Girls, All Boys
  • Main language:
    English, French
  • Capacity:
    Varies
  • Programs:
  • Verified Reviews:
  • e-Brochure:
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  • Overview

    Here's what makes YMCA of the National Capital Region stand out

    Y Camps help children learn new skills, explore hidden talents, develop friendships and create lasting memories. Neighbourhood Day Camps offer themed weeks, field trips, and fun activities in 10 locations across the Ottawa region. At Camp Otonabee, campers can choose day or overnight options while engaging in canoeing, high ropes, archery, nature programs, swimming and more!

    • Special needs: Yes, mild support.
      A few of our campers have special needs.
    • LGBTQ+ friendly community

  • Programs, Rates & Dates

    Programs and Sessions Calendar

    YMCA Camp Otonabee and Y Neighbourhood Day Camps are well-established and highly regarded camps that offer campers a safe place to belong, grow, thrive and lead at camp and in their lives beyond the summer. Our camp staff are committed to creating a supportive environment filled with fun, teamwork, and community connections. All camp programs are based in our five core values of Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Caring, and Inclusiveness.


    Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; YMCA of the National Capital Region currently has 20 programs available; 12 TBD.

    Filter activities :


    Choose location:

    Name
    Type/Gender
    Specialty
    Location
    Date
    Bus
     Cost
    Email
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 14 - 15
    CIT/LIT Program
    $630 to $695
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|CIT/LIT Program|Leadership Training|Nature/Environment|First-aid/lifesaving |Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 9 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $350 to $415
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Theatre Arts|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Hiking|Canoeing|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 10 - 11
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 8 - 10
    Ropes Course
    $499 to $564
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 6 - 7
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $499 to $564
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    All Girls
    Ages: 8 - 10
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 5
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Hiking|Canoeing|Swimming
    Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Hiking|Canoeing|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 6 - 7
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Overnight Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 8 - 14
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $895 to $950
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 8 - 9
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 10 - 13
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $499 to $564
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 8 - 10
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $499 to $564
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Day Camp
    All Girls
    Ages: 10 - 13
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 12 - 13
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $340 to $405
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 8 - 10
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $499 to $564
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 10 - 13
    Water Sports (multi)
    $499 to $564
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Nature/Environment|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $306 to $340
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $306 to $340
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Animals|Basketball|Dodgeball|Soccer|Rock Climbing
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $306 to $340
    Ottawa, ON
    180 Argyle Ave
    Date TBDCost TBD
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Animals|Basketball|Dodgeball|Soccer|Rock Climbing
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 4 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $320
    Travel|Circus|Acting (Film & TV)|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Papier-mache|Animals|Safari|Space|Zoology|STEAM|Basketball|Soccer|Volleyball|Football|Swimming
    Day Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 15 - 16
    CIT/LIT Program
    $706 to $784
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|CIT/LIT Program|Leadership Training|Nature/Environment|Public Speaking|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Swimming
    Overnight Camp
    Coed
    Ages: 6 - 7
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $716 to $781
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Skills|Arts & Crafts|Drawing|Painting|Nature/Environment|Mindfulness Training|Archery|Hiking|Rock Climbing|Canoeing|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming



    Registration Details

    We begin registration for YMCA Camp Otonabee on February 6 at 10AM. Y Neighbourhood Day Camps registration will open on February 27, 2025 at 10AM. Camper families can exclusively register online through our online portal called CampBrain. Y Financial Assistance and Payment Plans are available through the CampBrain portal (note: a deposit of $65-75 is required at the time of registration). Transfers and refunds can be processed at a 100% refund up until 16 business days before the start of the camp booking.



    Financial Aid & Payment Details

    Payment Options:

    Deposit required with acceptance Yes
    Credit card payment Yes
    Maximum installments available 4
  • Reviews & Insider Perspectives

    The Our Kids review of YMCA of the National Capital Region

    our take

    There’s more than a few reasons why the Y programs, particularly around camping, are so highly regarded, and the camps offered by YMCA of the National Capital Region are exemplary of all of them. They are age appropriate, providing opportunities to grow up within them, from day camps through to long-duration tripping and leadership training. All the camps are fun, to be sure, but they are also about growing into roles of responsibility. The values of the Y programs, too, are a draw, based in the tripartite focus on mind-body-spirit. Expert leadership, inclusive programming, a wealth of programming, and a nice constellation of facilities. There’s simply a lot to love.  


    Verified Reviews of YMCA of the National Capital Region

    (5)

    Lindsey Williams, Parent

    I was nervous about sending my son to camp however, everything went well. At first, he was nervous however, found friends easily and made relationships with the camp counsellors. As a Y kid myself, I ...

    Read full review  

    (5)

    Dominique Pilon, Parent

    I can't express enough how exceptional the YMCA camp in the National Capital Region of Ottawa truly is. From the moment we arrived, it was evident that this was a well-organized, top-quality program. ...

    Read full review  

    More reviews of YMCA of the National Capital Region

    Cain Canning , Alum

    From camper to vendor and alumni!

    Read review

    Chelsea Burwash, Alum

    I was a camper, and now my kids will be campers!

    Read review

    JH, Parent

    Happy and Tired Kids!

    Read review

    Dani Elle, Parent

    First Summer, but not the last!

    Read review

    Corey Kirkland, Parent

    Great Counsellors!

    Read review

    More reviews of YMCA of the National Capital Region


    Cain Canning , Alum

    From camper to vendor and alumni!

    Seriously beautiful camp. I've attended for 3 years when I was younger and now I'm lucky to be able to work alongside the camp by setting up inflatable rides and games. Every single day was something unique and fun. As a kid with anxiety, I was free at camp and it helped me develop socially without pushing me. There were activities that were relaxing and some that were challenging. The camp staff always were aware of the children's different levels of confidence and offered alternatives. I learned alot of skills while i was here, much more than they advertise. We always ended the day with a safe and refreshing swim. Thank you for choosing us to help make the special day a bit more exciting ... Show More


    Chelsea Burwash, Alum

    I was a camper, and now my kids will be campers!

    I went to this camp every year, all different programs.... It was the best experience in any camp I ever been too! I am so excited to be able to send my kids to this camp to experience and learn all the same cool and fun stuff I did ... Show More


    JH, Parent

    Happy and Tired Kids!

    This is the second year my kids have attended Camp Otonabee. Everyday they get off the bus tired but happy. They get lots of fresh air and exercise, learn new skills, and challenge themselves. They are so proud of how much braver they were this year on the ropes than last. Highly recommend this camp ... Show More


    Dani Elle, Parent

    First Summer, but not the last!

    My son had the best summer. It was his first year here at Camp Otonabee, but it will definitely wont be his last!


    Corey Kirkland, Parent

    Great Counsellors!

    My 10 year old daughter went there for a week and had am amazing time. The counsellors were great.


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  • Gallery

    YMCA of the National Capital Region - profile photo

    Video Gallery

  • Meet the Staff

    Director's Message

    Camp is a place for everyone, where belonging, connection and fun are at the forefront. Having been a camper myself and working in camps for over a decade in my adult life, I know firsthand how these experiences can inspire growth, build confidence, and create friendships that last a lifetime. As the YMCA Camp Otonabee Director, I’m so grateful to get to see the magic of camp unfold every day. Whether it’s happening on the forest floor, at the waterfront, or on a high rope up in the trees, watching campers take on new challenges, cheer each other on, and grow into leaders in the great outdoors is what makes this place so special. I hope you’ll join us in making memories and shining on at Camp Otonabee this summer! 



    Staff and Counsellors

    Y Camp Staff are engaged, caring, and camper-focused. Y Camp Staff are trained in soft-skills such as group management, the art of facilitation, and how to maximize fun and safety while at camp. Our experienced staff provide campers with the support, attention, and care they need while away from home. All staff are trained in first aid and CPR and lifeguards are nationally certified. All staff must complete a background check and participate in an extensive training program.

  • Location & Operations

    Address

    Ottawa, ON
    180 Argyle Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 1B7
    Ottawa, ON
    YMCA Camp Otonabee - 1620 Sixth Line Road, RR #1, Dunrobin, Ontario, K0A 1T0
    Ottawa, ON
    10 Locations from Stittsville to Rockland, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P1B7
    Ottawa, ON
    180 Argyle Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 1B7



    Busing

    Show all routes


    Accommodations

    Sleeping Accommodations

    • Cabins
    • Tents

    Amenities

    • Electricity in Sleeping Area

    Washrooms Facilities

    • Flush Toilets
    • Showers (indoor)

    More details about accommodations: The YMCA Outdoor Centre is the perfect location for your conference, staff retreat, group event or meeting. We offer a variety of meeting venues and programs ideal for corporate groups, church groups, community organizations, school groups, and more! Located on 30 acres of field, forest, trails and rugged shoreline on the Ottawa River, the YMCA Outdoor Centre is only a 30 minute drive from downtown Ottawa and 10 minutes from Kanata. The YMCA Outdoor Centre has free parking for over 150 vehicles.

    Are meals provided? Yes.



    Rentals & Services

    Offers children's birthday party packages: Yes
    The YMCA Outdoor Centre is located ten minutes north of Kanata on 30 acres of field, forest and rugged Ottawa River shoreline. Open year-round, the YMCA Outdoor Centre specializes in education and leadership programs for school groups, community organizations and professionals, and offers a variety of experiential, curriculum-driven outdoor education programs that can be tailored to the individual needs of any group.

    Offers outdoor education program for schools or corporate groups: Yes
    Whether you're searching for the perfect place to develop future leaders of your organization, or looking for a casual, natural environment away from work for team building exercises, the YMCA Outdoor Centre can accommodate you. The corporate team development experience provides an opportunity for employees to gather outside of an office setting to work together in groups to complete and solve various physical and intellectual challenges presented by the Outdoor Centre Facilitator. Employees work together solving problems cooperatively with the team to reach the group's ultimate goal. It is during these interactions that the key elements of communication, trust, adaptation to change, individual value and team value are addressed.

    Available for private rentals: Yes
    There's nothing quite like the great outdoors. The YMCA Outdoor Centre offers a wide variety of overnight or day programs for students of all ages. This includes high school classes and groups, university groups, sport teams, and community organizations. You may choose a pre-packaged program or you can design a program from the many options available to suit your group’s needs. Whether it's nature exploration, leadership education, or outdoor adventure programming, the YMCA Outdoor Centre will bring out the best in your students.



    Associations

    Ontario Camps Association Associations
  • What's New

    Stories

    • Kelly & Wilder

      Every time Kelly drove by Camp Otonabee on her way to work, it stood out to her as a classic summer camp. She always wanted to be able to give her 6-year-old son, Wilder, the experience of going to a camp like that, but as a single mom supporting two children with disabilities, it seemed out of the question.

      In 2023, her hopes were made possible when she was offered financial support through the Evelyne E. Laishley Campership Fund. Receiving this annual sponsorship fund meant that Wilder had the opportunity to attend a day program at Camp Otonabee. “To let him have that typical summer experience, that he can go back to school with and relate to others … I just think it’s so important,” Kelly shared.

      Wilder is an active kid. He loves building with LEGO and being outside. He also has a limb difference and wears a prosthetic. For Kelly, having a son with a disability means that acceptance and accommodation are necessary in new environments. “It is a large requirement when Wilder will be attending somewhere that I’m not going to be present.” Camp Director, Marisa, alongside Assistant Director, Hannah, met with Kelly and Wilder in advance to discuss how to best support him at camp. They talked about when he should be wearing his prosthetic, appropriate language to use, and how potential comments from other children would be handled.

      Kelly believed that Camp Otonabee would bea great fit for Wilder, and she was proven right. Wilder made friends and participated in activities like canoeing, swimming and nature walks. He was particularly proud of facing his fears on the high
      rope course. “The first time I did it, I was scared,” said Wilder. “The second time, I wanted to go to
      the top … It was fun!”

      Kelly saw that Wilder was excited to wake up every morning and return to camp for more adventures. “I could see his confidence was growing in himself and in his social relationships.”

      Wilder will have the opportunity to come back to Camp Otonabee for a second year. He and Kelly are both looking forward to it. “We’re so grateful for the support for Wilder. It doesn’t just make a difference in his life, it also makes a difference in mine.”



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