Kingston Outdoor Activities

Explorer Diving's seasoned instructors––many with NAUI, TDI, SDI, and PADI certifications––submerge aspiring divers in adventuresome waters and scuba know-how during their series of fun and intensive classes. Their introductory scuba and snorkelling courses get participants' gills wet in the fundamentals of underwater inhalation and appeasing sea-monkey royalty; a slew of advanced courses torpedoes more experienced divers toward open-water, dive-master, and night-diver mastery. Explorer Diving also rents out and sells various scuba equipment and refills empty air tanks.

A nonprofit joint venture of The Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, and YMCA of Kingston, RKY Camp has cultivated independent thinking and teamwork through adventure since 1929. Camp Director Christina Bonner works tirelessly to develop RKY's popular youth summer camp as well as a year-round program of outdoor education that is aligned with the Ontario Curriculum for Science and Technology. Corporate, family, and school groups frequently escape to the camp's leafy trails and modern cabins to discover healthful relaxation and bonding through activities designed to boost self-esteem and develop a better appreciation for the natural world. A recent collaboration with The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award also enables young adults to earn credit toward the internationally recognized honour, which is bestowed upon students who meet goals in the areas of community service, skill development, adventure, and sceptre ownership.

The camp's heavily forested grounds lie about 45 minutes north of Kingston, and lure visitors with modern conveniences and equipment that transforms nearby Eagle Lake, rock faces, and the area's indigenous tennis courts into natural sports arenas. With many former YMCA campers among their ranks, the staff professes a strong commitment to youth development, and fosters an environment of emotional and physical safety by adhering to standards governing all YMCA camps and accredited members of the Ontario Camping Association.

The 18-hole Rock and Roll Golf course caters to the average golfer with play that allows for some challenge, but mainly encourages all members of the family to enjoy their round without too much frustration. Composed mostly of par 3s, the course plays over fairly level terrain scattered with trees and shrubbery, meaning golfers won’t have to adjust their swings to account for wild fluctuations in elevation or distracting mountain search parties. Rock and Roll Golf keeps all players hydrated with complimentary bottled water. After a round, foursomes and families can stick around and use the free picnic area, which features a propane barbecue grill, volleyball net, and basketball hoop.