Leadership Programs
Leadership participants develop tightly knit groups and a sense of fellowship that is rarely found today. If adventure, challenge and learning are important to you, then our leadership programs are the place for you!
At YMCA John Island Camp, we view leadership development as a cornerstone of our program. Becoming a future camp staff member often begins within our leadership training programs. We believe good camp leaders possess a high degree of skill and confidence in the outdoors and a sensitivity to the needs of young people.
Our leadership progression is designed to help young people develop greater self confidence, an ability to work in group settings, a wide variety of outdoor skills, and an appreciation for the needs of younger campers.
2026 Details To Be Announced
Prospector Junior is a 5-day, 4-night leadership program where campers will enjoy all of the traditional activities that John Island Camp offers while also participating in thought-provoking workshops to help hone their leadership skills.
Campers will participate in regular camp programs and workshop style activities that explore leadership styles, provoke reflection and discover more about group dynamics.
2026 Details To Be Announced
Prospectors Sr is a 12 day, 11 night leadership opportunity for campers to blend the joys of traditional camp activities with valuable leadership development, as well as build on the prospector Jr program!
The combination of activities and workshops focuses on honing leadership skills alongside outdoor adventures during the out trip, creating a holistic and enriching experience. This program is designed to foster personal growth, teamwork, and self-discovery in a unique setting. Participants in this program will take part in a short multi-day canoe or hiking trip.
2026 Details To Be Announced
The Greenway program is a three or four week leadership experience that combines traditional camp experiences and Back Country Tripping. Participants of the Greenway Program focus on developing their own technical skills as well as learning more about group dynamics and how to effectively work in a team. In addition to the leadership training at John Island, Greenways will embark on an extended Canoe trip in a Northern Ontario location. Locations will vary depending on length of program.
2026 Details To Be Announced
The Norquay Program emphasizes personal development, communication, perseverance, and inter-personal skills. Participants hone their leadership skills and camp before embarking on a 4 week canoe expedition through the wilderness of Northern Ontario. Although participation in the Greenway program is not a pre-requisite, it is highly recommended that Norquay applicants undergo some form of basic backcountry leadership experience.
Tripping Programs
Adventure, challenge, and discovery are at the heart of John Island Camp’s tripping programs. Campers who join our Tripping Programs take on unforgettable trips designed to build confidence, teamwork, and wilderness skills.
At YMCA John Island Camp, we believe tripping offers one of the most powerful learning experiences — developing leadership, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world. Campers learn how to paddle, portage, set up camp, cook outdoors, and work together as a team while exploring some of Northern Ontario’s most beautiful wilderness areas.
2026 Details To Be Announced
The Explorer Canoe program is perfect for campers ready to begin their leadership and tripping journey at John Island Camp. After a few days on the island building skills and teamwork, campers will embark on a seven-day canoe trip through one of Northern Ontario’s stunning wilderness areas. Past groups have explored Lake Metagamasi or Killarney Provincial Park.
Explorer campers return with stronger wilderness skills, lasting friendships, and great stories to tell. No prior tripping experience is needed — just a spirit of adventure!