Is this the same as CAT camp?
Yes, this is the same format as CAT camp, we just changed the name to bring our summer and school programs under one name.
What will you do at camp?
You can plan to make new friends, learn about the environment, help make meals for the group, paddle on lakes and rivers, sleep in a tent and learn a variety of outdoor skills.
Who will the leaders be?
The Youth Programs Coordinator runs the camps with the help of 2 post-secondary students. All the leaders are trained in wilderness first aid, paddling, dealing with emergencies and have considerable outdoors experience. They love the natural world and are excited to have adventures with campers.
What do you need to bring?
We'll send you a specific gear list before your trip. We provide all the group gear such as tents and PFDs (personal flotation devices). If you do not have your own sleeping bag, sleeping mat or rain gear, let us know as we have gear to lend.
Where will you go?
One of the great things about our program is that it's rarely the same from trip to trip. We plan our trips based on water levels so they are never set in stone. Rivers we have paddled in the past include the Yukon, the Stewart, the McQuesten and the Nisutlin. Campers have also hiked the Dena Cho trail between Faro and Ross River and spent time in the Tombstones.
What if you do not have any outdoor experience?
You do not need any experience to participate in the program. All you need is a desire to learn and a willingness to try new things. Our leaders are here to support you as you become a proficient camper. If this is your first canoe trip or your 40th canoe trip, this program is a great fit.
What does the camping accommodation look like?
We place campers in tent groups of 2 to 3 people. You'll share a tent for the duration of the camp. We set up our tents close together so we can supervise and be nearby if someone needs something overnight.
Is there always access to an outhouse?
Often yes but when we travel into the backcountry, we bring a “Porta-Loo” with us so we can lessen our impact on the land by carrying out our waste. If you want more information about this, feel free to reach out and we’re happy to chat.
How many youth are in each program?
We accept 10 youth into each program. It keeps our ratio of instructor to camper high and makes for the most space in the canoes.
What kind of food will you eat?
We try to cook meals that are simple, delicious and nutritious. We also try to offer opportunities for campers to learn some fireside cooking skills as we prep meals. Some examples of meals we love are pesto pasta, veggie burgers, breakfast for dinner and lasagna.
How come there is no set schedule?
We have a framework of where we plan to be day-to-day but feel it is important to be flexible depending on our group needs and what the weather allows. We change plans on the fly if it’s cold and rainy or if the group needs a quiet afternoon rather than a raucous game in the woods. We get input from the group and try to build each day together as a team. When we get to see wildlife from our canoes or a great swim spot, it’s important that we can stop and watch rather than feel like we must keep to an itinerary.
Can you bring a phone? Can you call home?
We ask campers not to bring any electronics (cameras are okay!). It disrupts the building of our team and takes away from the outdoor experience. We carry satellite phones for emergency use only. While it can be tough to not communicate with our loved ones during the camp, we've found that being present brings better outcomes for campers.
How much does camp cost?
Camps costs $150. If this is a barrier, reach out to us for alternate arrangements.
