About Outdoor Day Camps
Camp Otonabee Day Camps offer general programs for campers who want to participate in all aspects of camp, and specialty programs for campers who would like to build skills within specific disciplines.
General Programs (Ages: 4Y-13Y)
Our General Programs offer campers the opportunity to participate in several different areas of camp which allow for a diverse experience.
Specialty Programs (Ages: 6Y-13Y)
Our Speciality Programs campers to concentrate on high ropes challenge courses, paddle sports, nature and arts programming, and more!
Campers leave Camp Otonabee with newfound skills, friends, confidence, and lasting memories.
Stay tuned for 2025 registration dates!
We're busy getting ready for another incredible camp season. Check back for announcements about when registration opens.
Extended Day Camp
Extended Day Camp (Ages: 4Y-16Y) is available in the morning (7AM-9AM) and afternoon (4PM-6PM) for all day campers to accommodate parents’/guardians’ schedules. Additional costs apply.
To register for Extended Day Camp, select the appropriate section when completing the registration process.
Outdoor Day Camps - Program Overview
Dress up day with themed programs
Every Wednesday at Camp Otonabee is a theme day in our General Programs! At the beginning of every week, themes will be announced on the Y Camps Ottawa Facebook page and in notes home. Then on Wednesday, campers can come to camp dressed up and participate in activities based on the theme. Some examples of past theme days are: space, Olympics, and magical creatures.
Kinder | Ages: 4Y-5Y
The Kinder program introduces our youngest campers to all aspects of camp in a fun and safe environment!
New Discoveries | Ages: 6Y-7Y
This program offers a well-rounded experience for campers who want to experience all aspects of Camp Otonabee!
Pioneers | Ages: 8Y-9Y
The Pioneers program provides an opportunity for junior campers to exercise a little more independence and experience new challenges.
Explorers | Ages: 10Y-11Y
Explorers is designed as a well-rounded program for campers who want a general experience of Camp Otonabee!
Young Wonders | Ages: 12Y-13Y
This program focuses on outdoor living skills. Campers will gain efficiency in starting fires, building shelters and identifying local plants and animals.
Mini Naturalist | Ages: 6Y-8Y
This nature-based program is designed for some of our youngest campers and focuses on interacting with the natural world around them.
Junior Adventure Camp | Ages: 8Y-10Y
This program’s focus is on high ropes challenge courses and an introduction to climbing.
Junior Paddle Sports | Ages: 8Y-10Y
This program’s emphasis is on the acquisition of paddling skills in canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding.
Junior Outdoor Girls | Ages: 8Y-10Y
This program is an opportunity for campers ages 8Y-10Y who identify as girls to enjoy traditional camp activities together.
Young Naturalist | Ages: 9Y-11Y
This program is an opportunity for campers to explore our natural world and learn outdoor living skills.
Drama | Ages: 9Y-12Y
This program is designed for children who would like to combine dramatic arts with the experience of an outdoor camp.
Senior Adventure Camp | Ages: 10Y-13Y
This program is meant to build on skills acquired through Junior Adventure Camp, but does not require it as a prerequisite to attend.
Senior Outdoor Girls | Ages: 10Y-13Y
This program is an opportunity for campers ages 10Y-13Y who identify as girls to enjoy traditional camp activities together.
Senior Paddle Sports | Ages: 10Y-13Y
This program is meant to build on skills acquired through Junior Paddle Sports, but does not require it as a prerequisite to attend.
Inclusion Programs are for campers who need extra support while they are at camp. Each camper is assessed independently. These programs have a separate registration and limited space. Please contact the camp office for registration information at day.camps@ymcaottawa.ca or 613-832-1234.
Preparing for Camp
It's exciting getting ready to go to camp. We've put together some resources and frequently asked questions to help you have the best camp experience.