YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg
Camp Stephens from the water Camp Stephens from the water

A Strong Reputation Built on a Foundation of Tradition

Black and white image of cabin on the shore with three people, paddles and a canoe.

Our History

In 1891, the first Winnipeg YMCA Summer camp was held at Keewatin Beach on Lake of the Woods and remained there for 2 years. In 1893, a group of 4 individuals (R.D. Richardson, C.M. Copeland, W.D. Bayly Sr. and J. Ball) located a cluster of five islands, which has become the present location of Camp Stephens. The names of these 5 islands as well as the name Camp Stephens, were adopted in 1896 and were named after influential YMCA members at the time: Mr. G.F. Stephens, Mr. C.M. Copeland, Mr. Fleming, Mr. T.D. Patton, Mr. James Ball and Sir George Williams.

Image of 8 smiling girls creating a human pyramid on the shore with a female camp counsellor

Our Purpose

Y Winnipeg, which owns and operates Camp Stephens, is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. At our core, we are passionate about creating opportunities and continuously advancing the well-being of the communities we serve. We do this by developing healthy and successful people who in turn create a positive impact in their local neighbourhoods.

Send a Kid to Camp - Camp Stephens has provided a wealth of experiences to thousands of children. You can help make a child's camp dreams come true by donating today. Learn More.

Young female campers with overnight bags walking across the lawn

Our Campers

Initially camping at Camp Stephens was primarily for young adults of both genders until 1910, when the camp began to be used primarily for boys. In 1962, a two-week girl's camp session was added to the program and continued to be offered for the next 18 years.  In 1980, Camp Stephens adopted a fully co-educational program for both boys and girls all summer long. 

Today, Camp Stephens welcomes all youth aged 8-17 years. We firmly believe in upholding every person’s dignity and strive to create a respectful and inclusive culture for all to feel safe and to play, learn, and enjoy their camping experience. 

Image of large group of Counsellors in front of camp building

Our Staff

Camp Stephens proudly follows the standards established by the Manitoba Camping Association and YMCA Canada. All camp staff are trained leaders committed to the well-being of children, and depending on their position at camp, have completed the following before camp starts:

  • Criminal Record & Child Abuse Registry Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
  • First Aid and CPR-C Certification
  • Bronze Cross or National Lifeguard Certification
  • Level 1 High Ropes Certification
  • Can Sail Level 2 or equivalent
  • 40hr Wilderness First Aid & CPR C 
  • Pleasure Craft Operator Card
  • Globally Harmonized System
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