Outdoor Education Programs

For over 100 years, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka has offered outdoor education programs to the community. We believe that connecting with nature is an important part of building a child’s self-confidence, sparking curiosity, and improving their mental and physical wellness. We have various outdoor education programs available for a variety of ages – find the one that’s right for your child below!

To learn more about YMCA Outdoor Education programs, view our Parent Handbook.

Grade 4 Science Program with the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB)

The Grade 4 Science Program is aimed at delivering engaging, comprehensive, and experiential programming on the topic of ecosystems and animal habitats. Students will explore the components of a healthy habitat, animal adaptations, and human impact on the natural world. Upon completion of their 100-minute lesson, teachers will receive a variety of digital resources to help further student learning. These resources include, but are not limited to, a custom-made workbook prepared by YMCA Outdoor Education Staff, links to applicable citizen science programs, and access to further learning resources.

Homeschool Forest Explorers 5-Week Program

Get ready for an epic adventure with Homeschool Forest Explorers, our thrilling new 5-week children’s program that’ll ignite your kids’ love for the great outdoors! Join us as we dive into the wild, where young explorers will uncover the wonders of nature through hands-on fun, discovery, and outdoor magic. From tracking critters to building nature-inspired creations, this program is all about sparking curiosity and embracing the joy of the forest!

• Location: Wasaga Beach YMCA, Innisfil YMCA
• Price: $250 for members, $280 for non-members
• Time: 10am- 2:30pm
• Program Dates: Wednesday, Nov. 5th – Dec. 3rd. 5 sessions total once per week.
• Ages: 6-13
• 12 spots available
• Registration is now open through the YMCA Online Portal. Click here to register!

Wilderness Explorers PA Day Programs

The YMCA offers full-day programming on PA and school break days. The PA Day programming is designed to help your busy family manage school PA Days. Children will explore the great outdoors through scavenger hunts, animal tracking, and explorer themed group games, and get to make new friends! Camp will take place outside so please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. (Indoor) Swimming is often on our list of daily activities, so come ready to take a dip in the pool! Campers will need to pack a swimsuit and towel. Please also provide a lunch and snacks (please no products that may contain nuts), and refillable water bottle.

• Locations: Collingwood YMCA, Innisfil YMCA, Gravenhurst YMCA, Midland YMCA, Wasaga Beach YMCA
• PA Day Price: $54 per day
• Times: 9am-4pm
• PA Day Dates:
  • October 24th, 2025
  • November 14th, 2025
  • January 30th, 2026
• Ages: 6-13
• 20 spots available at each location
• Registration is now open through the YMCA Online Portal. Click here to register!

Escape in the Landscape

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s Escape in the Landscape program o­ffers nature immersion activities for children in junior kindergarten to 12 years of age, using experiential and peer-to-peer learning and storytelling, rooted in observation of nature and learning lessons from plants, animals, and natural systems. Children will learn about their environment, sustainable practices, and how to be environmental caretakers. The fall program celebrates the transformation of nature as plants and animals prepare for the cooler months ahead. Discover the beauty of autumn, from vibrant foliage to the migration of birds and other creatures. Join us to explore how life adapts to the changing season, embracing the crisp air and the rich colours of the fall after the warmth of summer.

During this memorable program, your child will:

• Learn about the land and how to be environmental caretakers
• Connect with nature and build self-confidence
• Improve their mental and physical health
• Be curious, resilient, and motivated to make a difference

Click on your child’s age group below to view dates and more information. Registration is now open through the YMCA Online Portal.