Overnight Camps Near Montreal for Kids

The Sleepaway Camp Experience

Sending your child to overnight camp is a milestone — for both parent and child. It builds independence, resilience, and lifelong friendships in a way that day camps simply can't replicate. Quebec is blessed with stunning natural landscapes that make for incredible camp settings, and Montreal families have access to some of the best overnight camps in Canada.

Top Overnight Camps

Camp Nominingue in the Laurentians has been operating since 1925, making it one of Quebec's oldest and most established camps. Located on the shores of Lac Nominingue, the camp offers canoe tripping, sailing, swimming, archery, woodworking, and campfire traditions. Programs run from 2 to 7 weeks for boys aged 7-17. The emphasis on outdoor skills and character development has earned it a devoted following. Expect to pay $1,500-4,500 depending on session length.

Camp Amy Molson provides a completely free overnight camp experience for Montreal children who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Run by a charitable organization, it serves kids aged 6-14 with two-week sessions in the Eastern Townships. The program includes swimming, canoeing, arts, sports, and nature exploration. Applications open in winter — contact them early as spots fill quickly.

Camp Ouareau in Lanaudière is a premier girls' camp offering programs for ages 6-17. Their focus on outdoor adventure, creative arts, and leadership development creates transformative summer experiences. The lakeside setting is gorgeous, and the all-girls environment provides a uniquely supportive atmosphere. Sessions range from 1 to 4 weeks, $800-3,200.

YMCA Camp Kanawana in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts offers bilingual residential camping for ages 7-15. The YMCA's values-based programming focuses on building caring, honest, responsible, and respectful young people. Activities include swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, and team challenges. Scholarships are available for families with financial need. Prices run $700-2,800.

Specialty Overnight Camps

Camp musical des Laurentides combines overnight camp with serious music training. Young musicians aged 8-17 study with professional instructors while enjoying traditional camp activities. Ideal for kids who want to improve their musical skills while having a classic summer camp experience.

Camps Odyssée specializes in adventure camping with programs including backcountry canoe trips, mountain biking expeditions, and wilderness survival skills. For teens aged 12-17 who crave real outdoor challenges, this is the place.

Preparing Your Child for Overnight Camp

1. Start with a short session — 1-2 weeks is ideal for first-timers
2. Practice sleepovers — if your child hasn't spent nights away from home, try grandparents' or friends' houses first
3. Involve them in packing — kids feel more ownership when they help prepare
4. Discuss homesickness honestly — it's normal and it usually passes within a day or two
5. Write letters — many camps discourage phone calls but encourage mail
6. Trust the counsellors — camp staff are trained to support homesick campers

Accreditation Matters

Look for camps accredited by the Association des camps du Québec (ACQ). ACQ accreditation means the camp meets strict standards for safety, staff training, programming, and facilities.

Browse all camps near Montreal on FamiliQC.