Camp YMCA Kanawana’s History

Since 1894, Camp YMCA Kanawana has been welcoming generations of campers in a beautiful natural setting that encourages learning new skills, developing a sense of leadership, and making friends. Discover the major milestones that have marked the camp's history.

1894 – In the beginning

In the summer of 1894, "Billy" Ball of the YMCA of Montréal took a group of boys to camp on an island in Lake St. Joseph, in the Township of Howard, near Sainte-Agathe, Québec. Billy's concept was to take youth away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to teach them about group dynamics, team building, and leadership. This program was so successful that the YMCA of Montréal purchased the island (in addition to two others) and used them for leadership training. In 1894, Camp Jubilee, Québec's first residential summer camp, opened with a total registration of 20 campers.

1910 – Creation of Camp Kanawana

Looking for a larger site, the YMCA acquired a site in Saint-Sauveur from the Page family. Camp Kanawana opened its doors and 85 campers registered for the first session.

1947 – Creation of the Lumbermen and Voyageur Games

The games were inspired by Pinecrest Camp and quickly became an annual Kanawana tradition. In 2025, the games will celebrate their 78th edition.

1968 – Kanawana starts to welcome girl campers

Kawanana welcomed girls to its camp for the first time, beginning a long tradition of inclusion and diversity.

2022 – Launch of the Mountaineer program

The Mountaineer program was launched as an all gender tent to provide a safe and welcoming environment for transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming campers.

2025 – Camp Kanawana's 131st season

YMCA Kanawana celebrates 131 years of history and 148 years of the YMCA's commitment to residential camps and to training the leaders of tomorrow.