Outdoor Education Centres
The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario proudly operates two high quality Outdoor Centres in Northern Ontario.
Rotary’s YMCA Camp Tillicum
Rotary’s YMCA Camp Tillicum sits on the scenic southern shores of Lake Nipissing, offering an ideal setting just minutes from North Bay. This picturesque site is the perfect location for training events, and day trips for schools, organizations, and community groups across the region. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, team-building opportunities, or a simple chance to learn and explore in nature, Camp Tillicum delivers a memorable experience close to home.
The property features outdoor program areas as well as the newly constructed Redpath Youth Centre, providing a modern, flexible indoor space for workshops, gatherings, and group development. With easy access and a beautiful natural backdrop, Camp Tillicum is a convenient and inspiring venue for full-day outings of all kinds.
YMCA John Island Camp
YMCA John Island Camp offers 2–4 day Outdoor Education programs, with the option for extended stays through our custom programming options. Throughout May and June, we provide a wide range of outdoor activities designed to challenge, inspire, and engage students of all ages. Our team works closely with teachers and group leaders to build a program tailored to your goals, creating an exciting and meaningful experience for every participant.
Located on a beautiful 278-acre island in the North Channel of Georgian Bay (just south of Spanish, Ontario), YMCA John Island Camp is a historic Overnight Camp accessible only by boat—adding a memorable sense of adventure right from the start. Its stunning natural environment, rich camp heritage, and unique island setting make it an exceptional destination for school trips, leadership retreats, and conferences seeking an unforgettable multiday experience.
At YMCA Northeastern Ontario, we believe the most meaningful learning experiences happen when visiting groups and our staff work closely together. That’s why we collaborate with you throughout every stage — from pre-trip planning to your visit and post-trip follow-up — to ensure your objectives are met. If you have any questions about the information below, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Our YMCA Outdoor Centres provide an environment that is both physically and emotionally safe for all participants. We emphasize respect — for oneself, the community, and the natural environment. All programs are facilitated by experienced staff who are trained in our on-site programs, hold at least Standard First Aid & CPR-C certification, and are equipped with first aid kits.
Outdoor Centre Offerings
Rotary’s YMCA Camp Tillicum
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Canoeing
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Kayaking
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Low Ropes
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Initiatives & Team Building
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Archery
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Beach Activities
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Outdoor Living Skills
- Fire Building
- Shelter Building
- Nature Hike
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Net & Field Games
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Soccer
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Volleyball
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Gaga Ball
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Large Group Games
- The Ultimate Game of Survival
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Capture the Flag
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All-4-One
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Running Pictionary
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Action Auction
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YMCA John Island Camp
- Canoeing
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Kayaking
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Climbing Wall
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High Ropes (Vertical Playpen, Aerial Leap, Dangle Duo, Flying Squirrel & more!)
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Low Ropes
-
Initiatives & Team Building
-
Archery
-
Beach Activities
-
Outdoor Living Skills
- Fire Building
- Shelter Building
- Nature Hike
-
Net & Field Games
-
Soccer
-
Volleyball
-
Gaga Ball
-
-
Large Group Games
- The Ultimate Game of Survival
-
-
Capture the Flag
-
All-4-One
-
Running Pictionary
-
Action Auction
-
Custom Programs
At John Island Camp, we are committed to creating an experience to meet the needs of your group. Let us work with you to create a trip that perfectly suits your needs. Please contact us at our email johnislandcamp@ymcaneo.ca for more details on the following:
- Five-day programs
- High School Student Leadership Programming or SHSM Programming
- Overnight or Extended Canoe & Kayak trips
We are happy to offer Information Sessions for anyone preparing for a trip to our Outdoor Centres. These sessions can be arranged for teachers and trip planners, students, or parents and guardians. They include a brief presentation covering what a day at camp looks like, what to pack, sample menus, and an overview of our program options.
We can also visit your school or organization to run a hands-on outdoor education activity, giving participants a fun preview of the programming we offer and helping everyone get excited for their upcoming camp experience.
Our camps are staffed by trained, experienced outdoor educators who are committed to providing safe, engaging, and memorable programs. While our staff lead the majority of activities, teachers and chaperones play a key role in ensuring a successful visit.
As with any field trip, teachers and chaperones remain responsible for the care, safety, and behaviour of their students during the entire experience. The strongest camp experiences happen when teachers, supervisors, and camp staff work together as partners.
Meals & Group Gatherings
During meal or snack times, groups come together for a shared dining experience. We ask that teachers or chaperones provide guidance and help maintain a positive atmosphere. Camp staff will also be present and moving among groups.
Program Participation
While camp staff facilitate most programming, we encourage teachers and chaperones to participate actively. Your involvement helps support students as they try new activities and allows you to enjoy the camp experience alongside them.
Supervision & Free Time
There may be short free-time periods or transition times throughout the day. Outdoor Centre or Camp staff will account for students during structured programming, but teachers and supervisors are expected to know where their students are before meals, during breaks, and after program times conclude. Regular head counts are essential.
Camp-Specific Notes
YMCA John Island Camp – Overnight Program
- Cabin Life: Cabins typically house 10–12 people. For many students, this may be their first experience in a group-living environment; teachers and chaperones may need to provide extra support during bedtime routines.
- Overnights: Because students stay onsite overnight, continued supervision is required during evenings, cabin time, and morning routines. We do provide an on-call staff phone number for teachers or chaperones to use in case of emergency.