Campers will experience an eight day canoe trip through one of the most beautiful wilderness settings in Canada. Canoe tripping builds confidence and introduces young people to a variety of skills including teamwork and wilderness living. Campers in this program should be ready to work with the group and contribute to the planning and execution of the trip. This is the perfect pre-leadership experience for any camper.

Many campers grow up to be part of our amazing staff team and our two year Leadership Development program is designed to help them achieve this goal.

LD1 focuses on technical skills associated with camp, including kayaking, canoeing, ropes courses, sailing (Camp Elphinstone), team building and first aid. Campers take part in an out tripping experience. This two-week program also offers youth a chance to build strong and lasting friendships in a positive and constructive setting. Successful graduates of LD1 will be given preference for spaces in the following year’s LD2 program.

LD2 takes the technical skills of LD1 and applies them to leading others. Campers in LD2 strengthen skills in communication, group dynamics, child care, team building, risk management and teaching. They go on small out trips throughout their stay to learn how to lead their own groups. After submitting a registration form, LD2 applicants will be required to undergo a telephone interview with senior camp staff before final acceptance into the program.
Note: Please consult camp brochure for minimum age requirements for LD1 and LD2 based on YMCA policy and industry standards.

Join new and old friends at YMCA Camp Elphinstone for a weekend of invigorating activity and deep relaxation - just for women! Choose to participate in any number of planned activities or fill your time enjoying a book in a comfortable chair on the dock. Activities in the past have included yoga, making chocolate, aerobics and spa treatments. Visit our website or call YMCA Camps for registration information.

In partnership with the Canadian Diabetes Association, YMCA Camp Elphinstone hosts this unique program for children with diabetes to help them learn the importance of physical and emotional fitness. Kakhamela campers participate in all aspects of summer camp with the support of a medical team and dieticians. For registration information, please all the CDA at 604.732.1331.

Kick start your summer, explore YMCA Camp Elphinstone and enjoy healthy and fun activities for the whole family at YMCA Healthy Kids Day. This event is the perfect opportunity for new campers to meet staff, try new activities and tour the facility.

YMCA camps are able to assist campers with basic physical and mental disabilities. For one-on-one help, YMCA Camp Elphinstone offers integrated programs that allowss children with physical, mental or developmental special needs the chance to be a part of our summer camp programs. If you feel your child is in need of extra attention while at YMCA Camp Elphinstone, please contact us for more information. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.