YMCA Wanakita: A Haliburton Highlands Camping Gem

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Discover camping and outdoor adventures year-round at YMCA Wanakita on Koshlong Lake in the Haliburton Highlands. A tradition since 1953!

Nestled on the shores of Koshlong Lake in the Haliburton Highlands, YMCA Wanakita is a year-round camping and outdoor education center. Since 1953, it has offered traditional camp experiences, fostering leadership skills, independence, and a deep appreciation for nature among children, youth, and families.

A brief summary to YMCA Wanakita

1883 Koshlong Lake Rd, Haliburton, Ontario, K0M 1S0, CA
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Local tips

Consider visiting during the off-season for family getaways or women's wellness weekends for a different camp experience.
Check the program schedule in advance to plan and register for specific activities, especially popular ones like the water trampoline.
Pack for all types of weather, as the Haliburton Highlands can experience varied conditions, regardless of the season.
If attending family camp, coordinate with friends to book the same week, as many families return annually and plan their visits together.

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Getting There

Driving

YMCA Wanakita is located at 1883 Koshlong Lake Rd, Haliburton. From Haliburton, follow County Road 21 (also known as Koshlong Lake Road) north. The camp is approximately 15 km from the village of Haliburton. The drive takes about 20 minutes. Parking is available on-site, but it can be limited during peak season.
Taxi

From the village of Haliburton, a taxi ride to YMCA Wanakita will take approximately 20 minutes. Hyland Taxi provides service to all of Haliburton County. Expect to pay around $40-$50 for a one-way trip.

Discover more about YMCA Wanakita

YMCA Wanakita, spanning 1,000 acres of pine-scented land on Koshlong Lake, has been a cherished destination for over 70 years. The camp, run by the YMCA of Hamilton, Burlington and Brantford, attracts visitors from across Ontario and internationally. The name 'Wanakita' is derived from a legend of the Wendat people. Wanakita's history began as a replacement for YMCA camps in more developed areas. In 1953, George Jones and his colleagues chose Koshlong Lake as the ideal location, with Keith Smith selecting the name 'Wanakita'. Initially a boys-only camp, it began offering opportunities to girls in 1969. Today, YMCA Wanakita offers diverse programs year-round, including summer overnight camps, family camps, weekend getaways, and outdoor education programs for schools. Summer camp activities range from canoeing and kayaking to rock climbing, archery, and arts and crafts. The camp also provides unique experiences such as wilderness education, acoustic guitar lessons, and a 'Kangaroo Court' for minor rule infractions. Family camps and getaways offer activities like hiking, skiing, and yoga. Wanakita's enduring appeal lies in its ability to create lasting memories, foster new friendships, and provide a space for personal growth and connection with nature. The 'YMCA Wanakita Charter' challenges campers to embrace new experiences, appreciate the outdoors, and recognize that the true essence of Wanakita lies in its people.