Camp Otonabee
Discover why there's no place like camp!
Since 1952 children and youth have experienced the wonders of the great outdoors along the shores of the Ottawa River at Camp Otonabee. Campers aged 4Y-16Y take part in traditional outdoor camp activities such as canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, team building, hiking, natural exploration, theme days, and swimming. Each camp program is designed with age-specific criteria, rooted in our five core Y values; honesty, caring, respect, responsibility, and inclusion. Campers leave Camp Otonabee with newfound skills, friends, confidence, and lasting memories.
An experience they will never forget!
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. Additionally, a Wellness Coordinator is always onsite to attend to campers’ medical needs. All staff must submit a police background check and complete an extensive training program.
Browse through our camp guide and select the camp program that is right for your child.
Camp Otonabee Resources
Family Resources
How to Register for Camp
Registration Information
Once you have browsed through our Camp Guide (PDF) and chosen the right camp for your child, you are ready to complete the registration process. There are two options for registration:
1. The easiest and quickest way to register for camp is by registering online:
- View step by step instructions on how to register for camps online (PDF).
- Search for Y camps and programs online.
- Learn how to set up your online account to register for camps.
Full payment is due at time of registration.
2. You may also register in person or by email:
- Complete the Camp Registration Form (PDF).
- Email completed forms to Y Day Camps: day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca or deliver your completed forms in person at your local Y.
Please note, if you submit your registration in person at one of our Y locations or by email, someone from our camp office will reach out to complete your registration and process your payment in full over the phone.
Additional information and consent forms found within the Camp Otonabee registration form:
Inclusion Programs
We are proud to offer supportive programs for participants with special needs and requirements. This program allows campers the opportunity to participate in camp our programs with additional counselor support, ensuring that their experience is a positive one. Each camper will be assessed independently and assigned, with the help of the camper’s family, a one to one or low ratio camper to counselor experience. Please note that space is limited. To learn more, please contact our camp office at 613-832-1234 or email day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca.
Financial Assistance
At the Y, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience camp. Thanks to the generous support of donors and various fundraising initiatives year-round, we are able to provide financial assistance for families who otherwise could not afford the experience for their children.
Click here to download a Financial Assistance Application Form (PDF).
Please note, to process your Financial Assistance application in-person an appointment is required. Alternatively, you can email your application and supporting documents to our camp team. To submit an application, for more information, or to book your in-person appointment, please email us at day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca or call us at 613-832-1234.
Evelyne E. Laishley Campership Fund (Camp Otonabee only)
Through a generous legacy gift left by Evelyne E. Laishley (1913-2008), an annual camp sponsorship fund has been established to help underprivileged children and youth experience summer camp. Eligible participants can apply (through a sponsoring agency) for up to two weeks at the Y's Camp Otonabee. Please note that families who have accessed other Y camp sponsorship programs in the same season will not be eligible for additional support. This fund is offered in partnership with United Way/Centraide Ottawa.
Refunds and Transfers
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Transfer requests must be made be in writing by emailing day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca. Please include your camper’s name, your name, and the weeks they are both unregistering for and transferring to in your request. All transfers must be completed 10 business days prior to the session start date, provided there is space in the program.
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All refunds must be requested in writing by emailing day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca. Please include your camper’s name, your name, and the week they are unregistering for in your request. There are no refunds for children who are asked to leave the camp due to behavioural and/or safety issues. Please read our Camper Code of Conduct in the Family Resource section of our website for more information regarding our camper expectations and bullying policy.
Extended Day Camp
Extended Day Camp (EDC) is available for our Day Campers to accommodate parents’/guardians’ schedules. Extended morning hours run from 7AM-9AM, and afternoon hours are 4PM-6PM. Additional charges apply.
At this time, EDC is only being offered at our Camp Otonabee location.
To Register for EDC, select the appropriate section when registering for camp programs.
Contact Us
Any questions? We're here to help! Call or visit your local Y or get in touch with the Camp Office at 613-832-1234 or day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca.
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Check out our Camp Otonabee in action! |
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