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Overnight camp stays for kids and teens

Our camp stays give kids and teens aged 7 to 16 a full immersion in camp life. Over several days, campers take part in a wide range of outdoor activities, discover new passions, sleep in a cabin or tent and build independence in a safe, caring environment. 

Between busy days, camp traditions and moments shared with their group, each stay becomes a meaningful experience that often stays with them long after summer.

Find your overnight camp.

Why choose our camp stays?

Camp stays let campers experience Kanawana to the fullest, building strong friendships and lasting memories in an inspiring natural setting.

For over 150 years, our summer camp has brought generations of young people together around a shared philosophy: Non Nobis Solum, meaning “Not for ourselves alone.” This motto reflects the importance of helping one another, sharing, and fostering a sense of belonging within a community.

A full and varied experience

Every day brings something new. Campers take part in a wide variety of activities, which can include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, arts, music, dance and nature exploration.

This variety lets them try new things, develop their talents and gain confidence, all while having fun.

Full immersion in camp life

For many campers, a camp stay is their first experience away from home. With a reassuring routine, attentive supervision and a caring group, they quickly become more independent and find their place.

Every small challenge they take on becomes a chance to grow.

The perfect balance of adventure, friendship and tradition

Beyond the activities, campers become part of a real community. Shared meals, songs around the campfire, special evenings, team challenges and moments with friends are the kind of memories that often last a lifetime.

It's this mix of adventure, fun and belonging that makes the Kanawana experience so memorable.

A place where every camper can be themselves

At camp, every child is encouraged to take part, try, learn and express themselves in their own way.

Whether in sports, the arts, nature or group life, each camper can discover their strengths, develop their interests and make friends in an inclusive, caring environment.

A typical day at camp

Morning: starting the day right

The day begins with an optional morning swim, followed by breakfast and group announcements. Campers then head to their first activities of the day with their cabin or group.

Afternoon: adventure and discovery

Afternoons are packed with a variety of activities: water sports, outdoor challenges, arts, nature exploration, cooperative games and learning new skills.

Evening: traditions and memorable moments

In the evening, it's time for special activities, group games, shows, songs and the campfires Kanawana is known for.

A wide range of activities to spark new passions

At Camp YMCA Kanawana, every activity is designed to encourage participation, fun, cooperation and skill-building.

Water activities

Campers can try or improve their skills in several water activities:

● Swimming

● Canoeing

● Kayaking

● Paddle boarding

● Water trampoline

Sports and outdoor adventure

To take on new challenges:

● Archery

● Rock climbing

● Ropes course

● Soccer

● Gaga ball

● Nature exploration

Arts, creativity and discovery

To build their creativity:

● Theatre

● Music

● Dance

● Arts and crafts

● Woodworking

● Survival skills

Kanawana's unique traditions

Some traditions are at the heart of the experience:

● “Coffee/Cocoa House” variety shows

● Campfires

● “Dancing with the Staff” night

● Kanawoodstock

● “Lumbermen and Voyageurs” games

● Special overnights

● Saturday morning Cartoons

● Banquet Dinner

Our camp stays for kids aged 7 to 12

Our programs for younger campers offer the perfect introduction to summer camp life, with reassuring supervision and age-appropriate activities.

Girls and non-binary (Ages 7 to 12) 6-Day Pioneers

An ideal first experience for girls and non-binary youth to discover camp life, build confidence and enjoy their first adventures in nature.

Boys and non-binary (Ages 7 to 12) 6-Day Woodsies

A program for boys and non-binary youth that combines traditional camp activities with outdoor discovery in a stimulating environment.

Girls and non-binary (Ages 7 to 12) 12-Day Pioneers

A more immersive experience for girls and non-binary youth to build more independence and form deeper friendships.

Boys and non-binary (Ages 7 to 12) 12-Day Woodsies

A longer stay for boys and non-binary youth to fully experience Kanawana's traditions and unique spirit.

Our camp stays for teens aged 13 to 16

Designed for teens looking for more adventure, independence and challenge.

Girls and non-binary (Ages 13 to 16) 12-Day Pathfinders

A program for girls and non-binary youth designed to build leadership and team spirit and to push their limits through activities and adventures in nature.

Boys and non-binary (Ages 13 to 16) 12-Day Coureurs des bois

A full immersion in camp life for boys and non-binary youth, with plenty of outdoor activities and memorable moments shared as a group.