Summer Camp

With space for up to 120 campers, Camp Tapawingo offers an exciting program of arts, crafts, land and water activities in a relaxed camp environment. Campers build confidence and a sense of achievement through our thoughtful, culturally-responsive programming. We have experienced, well-trained counsellors to lend a hand and an understanding ear to campers 6-15 years of age joining us for 1- or 2-week sessions.

New for summer 2022 is our exciting Roots & Wings* program! Designed to create an adventure for older siblings who take care of younger sibling(s) at home, it is a 4-day camp experience for siblings aged 5-15.

We also have a 4-week Leadership Training program for 16 year old campers (CIT), as well as Leadership Development for 15 year old campers.

In line with YWCA Toronto's 2021-2024 Strategic Plan, Camp Tapawingo is undergoing positive changes to enhance equity and inclusion in camper, staff composition, as well as program curriculum. You can read more about Camp Tapawingo’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion here.

Camperships are available for eligible campers and counsellors-in-training who require financial assistance to attend camp. Please call 416.652.9374 for further information.

* One of the campers must be 12 years or older.

Click on the video below to hear our Intermediate Camper songs:

Camp Activities

Water-based Activities

What a great way to enjoy Georgian Bay! Whether it is instructional or just for fun, camp offers lots of opportunities to learn new skills.

Swimming — All campers take a swimming lesson supervised by qualified swim instructors and lifequards. We offer Red Cross water safety levels as well as Lifesaving Society Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. Swimming is an important part of summer and our campers spend as much time as they choose playing games, synchronized swimming or recreational time.
Canoeing — We offer campers a variety of ways to experience and develop skills in canoeing. There is an opportunity for instructional activities as well as playing games, day trips, paddling up the river and learning to enjoy being on the water.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) — Campers are having a great time with this relatively new paddle sport at camp! Whether they are learning to paddle, racing, going up the river, or doing yoga on the boards campers can always be heard laughing.
Sailing — Gliding across the water of Georgian Bay on a hot summer day is a wonderful experience. Campers learn to sail in a variety of boats including Zuma’s, Quba’s, and Skunks. They can choose to sail for the pure enjoyment of it or take Camp Tapawingo level courses.
Kayaking — Our program stresses having fun and developing skills in a safe environment. Campers receive skill instruction and also participate in activities that include relays, games, and day excursions.
Tripping — We offer a wide variety of trips including day trips to 5-day canoe trips for campers who are 11 years of age or older. A number of mountain biking and hiking trips are also offered.

Land-based Activities

Archery — Archery is a true favourite and allows campers of all ages to meet the challenge. Whether it is shooting at a target, shooting for prizes, or playing games like bingo, it is always fun!
Cultural Connections — Cultural Connections builds appreciation for diversity by engaging campers in a variety of fun games, songs and stories from various cultures.
Low Ropes Course — A series of individual and group activities from Whale Watch, Foot Loops and some long-time favourites like Tension Traverse or Spiders web. The course is also used by counsellors to build cabin group bonds.
Climbing — Our 40 foot climbing wall is there to challenge campers to reach for the top! Our trained staff are there to guide campers, encourage them in group cooperation, self-esteem and confidence building, and to have FUN! Our program facilitators lead campers in activities that serve as stepping stones to improving communication, problem solving skills and community development.
Fitness — The fitness activities are designed to encourage campers to have fun while being active. Activities vary from day to day and include yoga, Zumba, stability ball classes, and a range of other activities such as jogging and swimming.
Mountain Biking — Top of the line Trek mountain bikes are available for those who want to develop their skills, have a good work out or participate in day trips along the Seguin Recreational Trail.
Outdoor Pursuits — These activities allow our campers to feel comfortable in an outdoor setting by learning to build a fire and shelter, or exploring a variety of nature activities such as the turtle pond. Our participation in the Bondar Challenge helps develop a respect for the wilderness while developing skills in photography. Campers can submit their pictures to the Bondar Foundation for judging in this annual challenge.

The Arts

Dance — A full range of dance styles are represented (Jazz, hip hop, and lyrical). Campers may choose to take classes just for fun or to take permanent classes that lead to a performance in the dance and drama show at the end of each 2-week session.
Drama — Activities are also offered and many campers decide to perform in the show.
Guitar — Offered as an activity. Guitars are also available for campers to borrow and take back to their cabins for practice.
Arts and Crafts — An important part of our program and offers a variety of projects based on the interests of campers. Crafts range from old favorites such as tie dye, bracelet making, paper mache, painting, sketching and for campers 12 and older paddle making is available.

Camp dates and rates

YWCA’s Camp Tapawingo is an overnight summer camp for girls and gender diverse youth aged 7–15 years, located in Parry Sound, Ontario

Session 1 — 2 weeks (ages 7–15) — Saturday, July 2 – Friday, July 15, 2022 // $1,805
Session 2 — 2 weeks (ages 7–15) — Saturday, July 16 – Friday, July 29, 2022 // $1,805
Roots & Wings 2a — 4 days (ages 5–15) — Saturday, July 16 – Tuesday, July 19, 2022 // $552
Session 2b — 1 week (ages 6–11) — Saturday, July 23 – Friday, July 29, 2022 // $975
Session 3 — 2 weeks (ages 7–15) — Tuesday, August 2 – Monday, August 15, 2022 // $1,805
Roots & Wings 3a — 4 days (ages 6–11) — Tuesday, August 2 – Friday, August 5, 2022 // $552
Session 3b — 1 week (ages 16) — Tuesday, August 9 – Monday, August 15, 2022 // $975
Counsellor-in-Training Leadership — 4 weeks (age 16) — Saturday, July 2 – Friday, July 29, 2022 // $2,583
Counsellor-in-Training Leadership — 4 weeks (age 16) — Tuesday, August 2 – Tuesday, August 30, 2022 // $2,583

All prices are subject to 13% HST
For more information contact the Camping Department at 416.652.9374

Registration Information

There are two ways to register your child(ren) for summer camp:
Click on the link to proceed to the online registration or download the registration form here.

Registration must be accompanied by a non-refundable deposit and pre-arranged balance payment (Counsellor-in-Training Leadership – $300, two (2) week sessions – $200, and one (1) week sessions – $100). Balance payments can be arranged using credit card or post-dated cheque (payable to “YWCA Camping” and dated June 1, 2022). To serve camp participants better, in 2022 we will begin collecting camper statistics. This confidential form should be filled in at the time of registration.

***Please note that we are awaiting updated guidance on COVID protocols from Public Health for Summer 2022. The YWCA will require all campers, CITs, volunteers and staff to be fully vaccinated.***

Do you offer family rates?

Yes we do! When registering more than one child from the same household, a $100 fee reduction for each additional child can be applied to one (1) and two (2) week overnight camp sessions.

Do you offer camperships?

Yes, through our Campership program, we offer financial assistance for campers based on need. Please note that funding is limited, so early registration is essential. For more information, and to register, email camping@ywcatoronto.org.

What is your refund policy?

Refunds for balance of fee will be given if requested in writing eight (8) weeks prior to the start of the session. Refunds for deposit (less a $50 processing charge) will be given if a doctor’s certificate accompanies your written request. Refunds will not be given for late arrivals or early departures. In the event your camp session is cancelled due to government imposed regulations, a full refund will be issued (less a $50 processing charge).

How to register my child(ren)?

There are two ways to register your child(ren) for summer camp:
Click on the link to proceed to the online registration or download the registration form here.

A typical day at Camp Tapawingo

7:30a.m. // Wake-up bell/polar dip (optional)
8:15a.m.  // Flag-raising
8:30a.m.  // Breakfast
9–9:45a.m.  // Cabin clean-up/cabin time
9:45–10:30a.m.  // Activity #1
10:30–11:15a.m.  // Activity #2
11:15a.m.–noon  // Activity #3
12:30–2:30p.m. // Lunch/rest hour
2:30–4:30p.m. // Afternoon program with your cabin or section
4:30–5p.m. // General swim
5–5:30p.m. // Free time
5:30-6:30p.m. // Dinner
6:30-7p.m. // Tuck time
7–9:30p.m. // Evening program
8:30-9:30p.m. // Bedtime (depending on age)
10p.m. // Lights out

Click to download a typical Summer Camp day.

What are meals like?

We recognize that campers have diverse food traditions and practices. By offering a variety of meals, we aim to promote inclusion and sharing of culture through food. All meals are served family-style with campers and their counsellors eating together.

Our food service is under the supervision of a qualified chef. Food allergies and special diets can generally be accommodated if we are consulted in advance (including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free diets, as well as accommodating various food allergies).

Birthdays are celebrated with a cake for your camper and their cabin-mates.

Sample Menu

Breakfast — cold cereal, hot cereal, toast/muffins, yogurt, fruit, orange juice, milk
Lunch — stir fried vegetables, fried rice, spring rolls, juice and fresh fruit
Dinner — jerk chicken, rice and peas, tossed salad and cupcakes

Do you offer new camper orientation?

Yes, we do offer various events during the year!

Zoom Meet Ups –This is a wonderful format for us to meet you and your child(ren) in the comfort of your own home. Meet the Camp Director or Camp Assistant to see what camp is all about and ask any questions you may have. Zoom Meet Ups can be arranged by calling the camp office us at 416.652.9374.
New Campers Night – This is an event held in June at YWCA Toronto’s head office (87 Elm Street, Toronto). The date for New Campers Night will be confirmed in spring 2022.
Open House at YWCA Toronto’s Camp Tapawingo – Come join us at camp for the day. This is an opportunity for campers and parents to see camp and meet some of the staff. The Open House is offered in lieu of a visitors’ day during the camp session. The date for our Open House will be confirmed in spring 2022.

What is the Leadership Program?

Be a leader! Our 15 year old campers are involved in a special program that allows them the opportunity to design and implement some of their own programming.

We also offer an exceptional four (4) week Counsellor-In-Training Program for 16 year old girls and gender diverse youth that develops strong leadership skills, while learning the essential skills to work with youth. There is an application process for this program.

Please contact our Camping Department for more information: 416.652.9374 | camping@ywcatoronto.org

Who do I contact for more information?

For more information please contact our Camping Department: 416.652.9374 | camping@ywcatoronto.org