YMCA Wanakita

Summary Profile
About YMCA Wanakita

Since 1953, on our 1000 acre property with more than 1km of shoreline, YMCA Wanakita is the place to be. With a wide range of activities offered year-round, from school groups and family programs, to Kids Overnight, Day, and Family camps in the summer, YMCA Wanakita has something for everyone. Come have the time of your life!
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Special needs: Yes, mild support. A few of our campers have special needs.
COVID-19 Response

The health and safety of YMCA Wanakita campers, staff and volunteers is our top priority. The YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford and YMCA Wanakita are committed to meeting and exceeding public health guidelines. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve so too do the guidelines and requirements to reduce the spread. YMCA Wanakita will share all health and safety guidelines and requirements for campers prior to the start of the camp season. The YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford has a mandatory vaccine policy in place for all employees.
We plan to run programs as similar to previous years as possible, though some alterations and restrictions may be in place.
View recent COVID-19 updates from YMCA Wanakita

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Programs, Rates & Dates

Programs and Sessions Calendar

Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; YMCA Wanakita currently has 0 program available; 17 TBD.

Filter activities :

Name

Type/Gender

Specialty

Location

Date

Bus

Cost

New Year's Family Camp

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$260 to $380

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Winter Women's Weekend

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$275

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Family Day Weekend Family Camp

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$260 to $380

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

March Break Family Camp

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$350 to $510

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Mother-Daughter Weekend

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$175 to $255

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Spring Family Weekend

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$175 to $255

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

First Year Student Counsellor (1st Year SCs)

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 15

CIT/LIT Program, Wilderness Out-tripping

$4,062

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

One Week Kita Juniors & Intermediates

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 7 - 12

Traditional (multi activity)

$1,237

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Second Year Student Counsellor (2nd Year SCs)

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 16

CIT/LIT Program

$4,062

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Second Year Student Counsellor Tripper (2nd Year SCs)

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 16

CIT/LIT Program, Wilderness Out-tripping

$4,062

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Senior Specialty (2 Week Program)

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 13 - 15

Traditional (multi activity)

$2,254

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Senior Traditional (2 Week Program)

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 13 - 15

Traditional (multi activity) , Wilderness Out-tripping

$2,254

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Senior Trippers (2 Week Program)

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 13 - 15

Traditional (multi activity) , Wilderness Out-tripping

$2,254

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Summer Family Camp

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$520 to $765

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Two Week Juniors and Intermediates

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 7 - 12

Traditional (multi activity) , Wilderness Skills

$2,141

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Day Camp

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Day Camp
Coed
Ages: 6 - 12

Traditional (multi activity)

$250 to $340/week

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Fall Women's Wellness Weekend

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$270

Haliburton Highlands, ON
1883 Koshlong Lake Road

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Financial Aid & Payment Details

Payment Options:

Credit card payment

Yes

Insider Reviews & Perspectives

The Our Kids review of YMCA Wanakita

Founded in 1953, Wanakita may not be one of the oldest camps in Canada, though it has long been one of the most influential, and is one of the camps that others look to when growing or innovating their programs. It has a very traditional feel, something that they rightly celebrate, with all the traditional activities on offer. Reach for the Rainbow is a touchstone of a culture of inclusivity that extends throughout the camp, its ethos, and its operations. The addition of a summer-long family camp was conspicuous when it was begun well over a decade ago, though has become the model for many others throughout North America. Wanakita has grown over the years, with the last significant acquisition perhaps being that of the Haliburton Hockey Haven, which doubled the program areas at a stroke. The family camp and kids' camp programs are separated, and there are benefits to that, not the least being separate dining halls. Wanakita has an impressive tradition of leadership, with many of its alumni having moved on to prominent roles, nationally, both in the Y and in camping generally. The facilities and programs have naturally evolved to meet the needs of new generations of campers, though it’s a testament to the ongoing quality of the camp that every generation of camper is as covetous of how the camp was when they were there. As ever, Wanakita remains a vibrant camp environment, one in which values are as important as activities.
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User reviews of YMCA Wanakita

Best Place
Kyler M. (Camp alumni)
YMCA Wanakita is the best place I have ever been in my life. It’s so beautiful and serene! Ever since I began to come to Wanakita, I have loved it so much. Wanakita is an amazing place for all people of all ages. There a... Read More

Outstanding
Heather Marshall (Parent)
Outstanding setting, counselors and activities. My kids 7 and 11 had a blast. Older one spent two weeks and could have stayed longer. We will definitely be back next summer!

Location & Site Details

Address

1883 Koshlong Lake Road, Haliburton, Ontario, K0M 1S0, Canada

Busing

Kids Camp Only - Bus To Camp (Sunday Drop Off) (Bus fee: One way: $75.71 / Round trip: $151.42 (Prices include HST))

Location	Address	Pick up	Drop off
Hamilton	135 Fennell Ave W, Hamilton, ON L9C 1E9	8:00 am	Not provided
Burlington	5111 Fairview Street, Burlington, ON L7L 4W8	8:45 am	Not provided
North Toronto	12001 ON-400, Vaughan, ON L6A 1S1	9:45 am	Not provided

Kids Camp Only - Bus From Camp (Saturday Pick Up) (Bus fee: One way: $72.50 / Round trip: $145.00 (Prices include HST))

Location	Address	Pick up	Drop off
Toronto	Hwy 400 S, Maple, ON L6A 1S8	Not provided	2:15 pm
Burlington	5111 Fairview Street, Burlington, ON L7L 4W8	Not provided	3:15 pm
Hamilton	135 Fennell Ave W, Hamilton, ON L9C 1E9	Not provided	4:00 pm

Accommodations

Sleeping Accommodations

Cabins

Amenities

Electricity in Sleeping Area

Washrooms Facilities

Flush Toilets
Showers (indoor)

More details about accommodations: Cabins each have bunks or single beds with vinyl mattresses for which linens are not provided, as well as simple wooden shelving. Lights and outlets are provided in all cabins. Some cabins have washrooms and showers, while most access washrooms and showers from the wash houses throughout camp. Winter and Spring Family Camp/Women's Weekend programs use the washroom cabins which are winterized and outfitted with heating.

Are meals provided? Yes

Is YMCA Wanakita technology free? Yes We live in an age where technology plays a very important part in our lives. Technology is used every day, for learning, communicating & often to make our lives easier. Although technology is an important staple, we want to help people step away from technology and communicate in-person, learn hands-on and have fun. By disconnecting from technology like smart phones, we can focus on our time at camp. For Kids Camp programs, we have a no cell phone policy and we discourage anyone from bringing electronics (aside from wrist watches & flashlights) to camp. For Family camps, we discourage frequent use of phones. Cell reception is spotty and wifi internet is not available.

Property Details

Sports facilities

Archery Range
Basketball Court
Climbing Wall
Rope Course

Landscape

Beach
Forested Area
Lake/Pond/River
Nature Trails
Open Field

More details about property: YMCA Wanakita boasts a beautiful 1,000 acre site, situated on the shores of Koshlong Lake in the Haliburton Highlands. Features include: • 25 km of trails for hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing • 1 km of sandy shoreline on Koshlong Lake • Two full service dining halls • A large variety of comfortable, rustic cabins with bunk beds (many winterized) • A variety of indoor and outdoor recreation facilities and equipment including basketball, pickleball and broomball courts, play fields, and waterfront activities.

Rentals & Services

Offers outdoor education program for schools or corporate groups: Yes
Camping at YMCA Wanakita is a year-round experience and each season has something new to offer. Throughout the fall, winter and spring, YMCA Wanakita offers a variety of programs for schools, universities, colleges, businesses, adults, families and special interest groups of all ages. Whether venturing to camp for one, two, or even five days, our staff take pride in ensuring that all individual and group goals are met. Custom designed programs are planned and delivered cooperatively between group leaders attending the program and YMCA Wanakita’s exceptional Outdoor Centre staff. Spring and fall activity options include: canoeing, kayaking, low and high ropes, outdoor pursuits, hiking, group team building, archery, campfires and more! Winter activity options also include: cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, tubing/tobogganing, and skating on the lake. Leadership and team-building are popular options as well. Our Outdoor Centre group rates are offered in 24 hour billing periods. Prices are all inclusive (meals, equipment, instruction, lodging). Please contact us for rates.

Associations

What's New
Director's Message

Mike Thaler , Summer Kids Camp Director

Those who go to camp often refer to camp as their second home. In 2018, the YMCA of Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford adopted a new value of Belonging to its "Core Values" (Caring, Honesty, Respect & Responsibility). This is very fitting as campers most often feel that YMCA Wanakita is somewhere they can belong. Wanakita has provided that place of belonging for me. Starting off as a family camper before turning 2 years of age and continuing to return for at least one week every summer since, I am hopeful that you will also find that YMCA Wanakita may become your 2nd home as it has for so many of us.

About the Kids Camp Director

Mike Thaler is Wanakita's Summer Kids Camp Director and started camp at the early age of one and a half through YMCA Wanakita's Family Camp programs. Since then, Mike has spent at least one week at Wanakita each year since. Having held the roles of counsellor, kayaking specialist, outdoor centre instructor and most recently full time as the Outdoor Centre Program Coordinator, Mike has a great understanding of YMCA Wanakita's operation and how to make your experience a positive one. Mike graduated from Algonquin College's Outdoor Adventure program specializing in water based activities such as canoeing, whitewater kayaking and rafting. Mike has lead/run trips in Algonquin Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park, French River, Magnetawan River, Bon Echo, (canoeing) Desolation & Grey Canyons (Utah - whitewater kayaking) and has even taught whitewater kayaking for a Disney TV show. Mike has many hobbies including fat biking, whitewater kayaking, volunteer firefighting, canoeing and kick sledding with his dog Duke.

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In the News

October 28, 2021
Registration Opens November 15th!
Registration opens November 15th for all year-round 2022 programs. There's something for everyone!... Read More
Stories

The benefits of Family Camp
In addition to our long tradition of residential camping, we are also proud of over thirty years of Summer Family Camp at YMCA Wanakita. This past summer, one of our Family Campers shared a thoughtful and touching letter with our Director. "Thank you for a most wonderful week at Family Camp- truly the best one we have had in 4 years. Before camp, we were talking about directing our resources elsewhere for family vacations and making this our last year. By the second day of camp, Ken and I had both (independently) decided to review this choice! We will definitely be back - hopefully for many more years. We had forgotten the magic of camp. We particularly enjoyed watching our girls try out new skills - archery, kayaking, and swims to the island! We saw them grow in confidence and become more of their true selves. The week gave us, as adults, a break from the mundane things that so often consume our thoughts (what's for dinner, do we need to pack lunches for tomorrow, when was the last time the laundry got done...) and reminded us of who we were and what was important to us before life became more complicated! It was so reassuring to discover this part of us still exists and we are thinking of ways to bring our true selves back into our lives now even though we have lots of responsibilities. With gratitude for the week and the life lessons beyond..." Thanks to all who make our programs a success, and we look forward to making more memories next year!

Facing your fears at camp
Wanakita is open year round and we want to share one of our stories from one of our alumni Outdoor Center Directors. Over the years the YMCA Wanakita Outdoor Centre has welcomed a number of schools, teams, and special interest groups. We love being able to share our winter wonderland with children, youth and adults from across the province. One memorable even occurred a few weeks ago, when we welcomed a group of grade 11 students from an inner city Toronto school. This group spent one afternoon tobogganing, and the majority of the students had never experienced sliding down a hill before. Our staff were amazed to see that the seemingly toughest student in the group was noticeably afraid to go sliding. He hesitated at the top of the hill, and then screamed the whole way down. Despite his initial fear, he loved the ride and immediately ran up to the top of the hill to go sliding again! This young man learned to face his fears, overcome an unfamiliar situation, and experienced success because of it. We at Wanakita are fortunate to be a part of these incredible outcomes of play every day.
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