Big Cove YMCA Camp

Welcome to Big Cove!

We invite you to join the “experience that lasts a lifetime” at Big Cove YMCA Camp as we celebrate our 120th season full of adventures and excitement. As the oldest residential camp in Canada, we take pride in our history that has shaped our strong ongoing program deliveries that makes us a leader in residential camping in Nova Scotia. Each year hundreds of youth paddle our open waters, hike surrounding trails, and work as a team to overcome personal and group challenges that are the foundation for lifelong friendships.

Since 1889 Big Cove has changed a great deal, yet the values behind our programs remain the same to provide a quality and meaningful experience to all those who attend. Nestled in a secluded cove on Merigomish Harbour, Big Cove YMCA Camp is a hidden coastal paradise of forest, field, marsh, and ocean. Our beautiful environment supports our goal to provide youth with the opportunity to develop leadership skills, enhance their self-esteem, and build an appreciation for the natural environment in a safe, respectful community.

Whether you are canoeing the coastlines of Cape Breton, sleeping under the stars, or climbing to new heights on our ropes course, Big Cove YMCA Camp is the place to be this spring, summer, or fall. We hope that you will join us in the “experience that lasts a lifetime.”