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  • Type:
    Overnight camp
  • Focus:
    Traditional (multi activity)
  • Cost:
    $3,950 to $6,675/session
  • Ages:
    8 to 16
  • Gender:
    All Boys
  • Main language:
    English
  • Capacity:
    225
  • Programs:
  • Reviews:
Request more info
  • Overview

    Here's what makes Kilcoo Camp stand out

    Founded in 1932, Kilcoo is a private overnight summer camp for boys. We strive to build campers’ confidence, develop their sense of independence, and allow boys the opportunity to grow as individuals through outdoor recreation activities, sports, and canoe tripping. Memories and friendships made at Kilcoo last a lifetime, as proven by our robust and active alumni community.

    • Special needs: Not available

  • Programs, Rates & Dates

    Programs and Sessions Calendar

    At Kilcoo, our mission is to create a dynamic and supportive environment where boys aged 8 to 16 can thrive. We are dedicated to fostering independence and building leadership skills through our diverse program of water & land activities, sports, and tripping. Kilcoo emphasizes both fun and personal growth, providing a safe, well-maintained space where boys can explore their interests, develop lifelong friendships, and gain the confidence to navigate the world outside of camp. Through teamwork, adventure, and positive role modelling from our experienced Staff, we strive to nurture well-rounded individuals who are prepared to lead and excel in all aspects of life.


    Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; Kilcoo Camp currently has 2 programs available.

    Filter activities available:


    Name
    Type/Gender
    Specialty
    Location
    Date
    Bus
     Cost
    Email
    Overnight Camp
    All Boys
    Ages: 7 - 12
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $3,950
    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35
    Jun 27-Jul 10$3,950
    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35
    Jul 11-24 $3,950
    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35
    Jul 28-Aug 10$3,950
    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35
    Aug 11-24 $3,950
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Out-tripping|Wilderness Skills|Guitar|Jam Camp|Theatre Arts|Arts & Crafts|Ceramics |Painting|Papier-mache|Pottery|Woodworking|CIT/LIT Program|Leadership Training|Bronze Cross|First-aid/lifesaving |Archery|Baseball/Softball|Basketball|Dodgeball|Flag Football|Gaga|Pickleball|Soccer|Tennis|Volleyball|Cycling|Mountain Biking|Football|Ping Pong|Rock Climbing|Board Sailing|Canoeing|Diving|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming
    Overnight Camp
    All Boys
    Ages: 7 - 16
    Traditional (multi activity)
    $6,675
    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35
    Jun 27-Jul 24$6,675
    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35
    Jul 28-Aug 24$6,675
    Ropes Course|Wilderness Out-tripping|Wilderness Skills|Guitar|Jam Camp|Theatre Arts|Arts & Crafts|Ceramics |Painting|Papier-mache|Pottery|Woodworking|CIT/LIT Program|Leadership Training|Bronze Cross|First-aid/lifesaving |Archery|Baseball/Softball|Basketball|Dodgeball|Flag Football|Gaga|Pickleball|Soccer|Tennis|Volleyball|Cycling|Mountain Biking|Football|Ping Pong|Rock Climbing|Board Sailing|Canoeing|Diving|Kayaking/Sea Kayaking|Stand Up Paddle Boarding|Swimming



    Financial Aid & Payment Details

    Payment Options:

    Deposit required with acceptance Yes
    Credit card payment Yes
  • Reviews & Insider Perspectives

    The Our Kids review of Kilcoo Camp

    our take

    Founded in 1932, Kilcoo remains one of the great, classic Canadian camps. Their programming today follows from that tradition, based heavily in watersports, canoeing, woods lore, and a boisterous celebration of camp culture. Campers past and present are absolutely loyal to Kilcoo, in large part due to the consistency of the program leadership down through the decades. They feel that attending Kilcoo is about more than a summer. It’s a chance to participate in a bigger story with a longer arc, one that ingrains a love for the wilderness, sure, but that also provides solid ground for their development into the leaders of tomorrow. And, indeed, it’s all of that, which is a draw for generations of campers, both locally and from around the world.


    More reviews of Kilcoo Camp

    Anonymous, Parent

    Thanks

    Read review

    Theo, Camper

    The Gift of Camp

    Read review

    Ethan, Camper

    The Kilcoo Olympics

    Read review

    Diego, Camper

    First Time

    Read review

    Nic, Camper

    Best Place on Earth

    Read review

    More reviews of Kilcoo Camp


    Anonymous, Parent

    Thanks

    I wanted to write you a quick note to say thank you for yet another wonderful summer for our boys. A day hasn’t gone by without some camp story, song or game being told, sung or played in our house. Our boys had a fantastic summer. I’m not sure how you do it, but they come back closer as a band of brothers than when they leave and I love that. The boys have always been quite close, but it amplifies from their camp experience. I was concerned that our youngest wouldn’t fit into this troop, but he has come back a full member which is really wonderful for us as parents to see. It is clear that you love camp and make the experience a dream for boys – enough structure to make sure the day runs smoothly, but not the sort of structure they have at home (and I struggle to offer them as a parent who likes things to stay neat and clean). It is such a special place and your dedication to it is obvious. I love that, in an all-boys environment, the boys show so much affection for one another – they aren’t scared to hug and cry and really show each other how much they care. Pick up day was full of so much affection between the campers and staff it was truly fantastic to see. It is magical. Thank you so much. The boys will be back next summer (was there any doubt?) and I suspect the countdown has already commenced in their minds ... Show More


    Theo, Camper

    The Gift of Camp

    I think camp is one of the greatest experiences of my life. Having my father go to Kilcoo in the 80's, I know all the graces and camp songs by heart. Now, when my little brother Charlie and I go to camp, my Dad peppers us with questions about Kilcoo and if things are the same as when he was there. I always tell him it is the great guys and girls on staff and the campers at Kilcoo that make it the same great place its always been. My first time at camp for a month flew by! When my parents picked me up the first thing I told them after a hug was, "I'm coming back next year." I think camp is not just an experience, it is an amazing gift that every Kilcoo camper treasures ... Show More


    Ethan, Camper

    The Kilcoo Olympics

    The Olympics is about growing as a person with the Kilcoo community. Being forced to compete against your friends, turning them into opponents for the event or even the day. This may seem like a strange approach but when everyone shows Kilcoo values of integrity and sportsmanship and all is said and done, you come out with stronger bonds than ever. The Olympics gives you motivation to push your limits physically and teaches you that half the battle is mental. Your teammates cheering you on helps you fight that mental battle and push harder. With this encouragement in this environment, you become stronger learning what you are truly capable of. The Olympics would just not be the same if they weren't at Kilcoo. ... Show More


    Diego, Camper

    First Time

    I arrived at camp tired and uncomfortable, away from my home, in a different country. It was hot and the sun beat down on my exhausted body. Although that wasn't the best first impression, during my time at Kilcoo I have come to appreciate these little things. I went to my cabin and began to unpack my belongings. As I did this, I pondered my firsts on this trip; first time in Canada, first time flying alone, first time without my parents, first time at Kilcoo. At that moment, I knew very little of what to expect. I knew not of the friendships I would make or of the inspiring leaders and role models I would meet. From archery to windsurfing, there were so many activities to take part in. Kilcoo has inspired me in so may ways. One of my favourite things about camp is chapel. Listening to staff members share stories about overcoming obstacles and appreciating things that life experience has given them. I appreciate my summer at Kilcoo and the opportunities it has given me., I am grateful to my parents for sending me to this incredible place. I am grateful for Lub, the staff and all of the LITs for helping make this experience possible. My stay was filled with firsts, gritty and fun, and that is what I am most grateful for. ... Show More


    Nic, Camper

    Best Place on Earth

    Every year I come back to camp not only for the fun that I have, but for the amazing friendships that I build and the long lasting memories that I create. Camp is one of the best places on earth and I am happier because of it. ... Show More


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    Kilcoo Camp - profile photo

    Video Gallery


  • Meet the Staff

    Director's Message

    Patrick is excited to return to Kilcoo as Director in 2025 after an awesome first summer in 2024. The summer of 2025 will be Patrick’s 37th on the shores of Gull Lake.

    Patrick began his life at Kilcoo in 1987 and spent every summer there as a camper until he became Staff in 1995. In subsequent years, he was a Counsellor, Section Director, LIT Director, Land Staff Director, and Program Director. Patrick started working for Kilcoo full-time in March 2004 as Program Director and Spring/Fall Program Co-Ordinator, what we call Advance Camp and Post Camp. Patrick worked and lead the spring and fall for over a decade before returning to the office for the non-summer months. Patrick was promoted to Assistant Director in 2007 and remained in the position through Fall 2021 after ensuring a safe and successful summer during the second year of Covid-19. After two years away from Kilcoo, Patrick was hired as Director in the Fall of 2023.

    Patrick comes from a close-knit family, and returned to Kilcoo with support from his parents, sister & brother-in-law and their two kids. Patrick’s nephew started his Kilcoo career in August 2024. Patrick is a life-long camp guy with a true passion for Kilcoo Camp. 



    Staff and Counsellors

    The Kilcoo Staff consists of over 70 dedicated men and women, many of whom even started at Kilcoo as campers themselves! Every Staff member is uniquely qualified to provide support for your son at camp. Our Staff believe that camp is the best place for kids and in the value and positive impact of a summer at Kilcoo. Each of Kilcoo’s cabins has a dedicated counsellor and LIT for their group of campers. Many activities have instructors who lead campers through projects and teach skills required for levels. All Staff are trained in childhood development, bullying & conflict management, mental health support, and to industry standards in First Aid and lifeguarding, though many of our Staff exceed these standards with additional qualifications.

  • Location & Operations

    Address

    Minden, ON
    10735 Hwy #35, Minden, Ontario, K0M 2K0
    Moore Park, Toronto
    403 - 150 Eglinton Ave E, Toronto, Ontario, M4P 1E8



    Busing

    • Arrival Day (Bus fee: 100.00)
      Location Address Pick up Drop off
      Sterling Hall School 99 Cartwright Avenue, North York, ON, Canada 12:00 pm Not provided
      Kilcoo Camp 10735 Highway 35, Minden Hills, ON, Canada Not provided 2:15 pm
    • Departure Day (Bus fee: 100.00)
      Location Address Pick up Drop off
      Kilcoo Camp 10735 Highway 35, Minden Hills, ON, Canada 10:00 am Not provided
      Sterling Hall School 99 Cartwright Avenue, North York, ON, Canada Not provided 12:30 pm


    Property Details

    Sports facilities

    • Archery Range
    • Baseball Diamond
    • Basketball Court
    • Climbing Wall
    • Rope Course
    • Running Track
    • Soccer Field
    • Tennis Court(s)
    • Weight Room

    Landscape

    • Beach
    • Forested Area
    • Lake/Pond/River
    • Nature Trails
    • Open Field

    More details about property: Kilcoo is easily accessible by car, bus, and float plane. The camp is around a two hour drive from Toronto. Kilcoo's 165 acres are protected in a bay on Gull Lake in Minden Hills near Haliburton. Highlights of our property include the Lodge with a dining area and a lower level games room, the Rec Hut with built-in stage for meetings and performances, a Health Centre staffed with licensed health professionals, High and Low Ropes courses, Indoor and Outdoor Climbing Walls, a beautiful sandy beach, and a jumping tower at the Swim Docks.



    Accommodations

    Sleeping Accommodations

    • Cabins

    Amenities

    • Electricity in Sleeping Area

    Washrooms Facilities

    • Flush Toilets
    • Outhouses
    • Showers (indoor)

    More details about accommodations: Campers live in cabins with 8 - 10 others plus their Counsellor and LIT in adjoining staff quarters. Each camper will have his own bunk, a cubby for his clothes, and personal shelving around his bunk area.

    Are meals provided? Yes. Our caterers prepare all of the camp's meals in house in the Lodge's kitchen. Typical meals include a hot breakfast, hot or cold lunch, and hot supper with a sweet dessert. Popular meals include eggs with toast and bacon, waffles and breakfast sausage, chicken burgers and fries, grilled cheese and tomato soup, roast beef with veggies and mashed potatoes, and chicken and veggie stir fry. Fresh fruit is available in the Lodge all day whenever anyone needs a snack. The kitchen team includes a special diets chef who prepares meals for all campers and staff with unique dietary needs, including vegetarian offerings, allergy-safe alternatives, or religious accommodations.

    Is Kilcoo Camp technology free? Yes. We believe that Kilcoo is a great opportunity for kids to "unplug" from their devices and spend more time in the moment. We have a full-time photographer on staff capturing memories that are compiled into a slide show at the end of each month and into a yearbook that gets mailed out at the Holidays. Campers and parents are encouraged to write letters to one another to keep in touch.



    Rentals & Services

    Offers outdoor education program for schools or corporate groups: Yes
    Kilcoo Camp has offered outdoor recreation and education programming during the spring and fall seasons for more than 40 years. Located on Highway 35 just outside the town of Minden, the camp is approximately 200km northeast of Toronto, or a little over a 2-hour drive. Our facilities include: The Lodge – the dining hall located in the heart of camp which can comfortably seat over 200 people and can quickly be turned into a large space for learning sessions or indoor activities. Games Room – indoor ping pong, pool, foosball, and shuffleboard tables, and a small library. 40+ Sleeping Cabins – all with electricity and several with ensuites for teaching staff or parent chaperones. Accessibility – fully accessible cabin with ramp, two accessible washrooms with grab bars and roll-in showers; can be used for sleeping accommodations or as a lounge/common space. Rec Hut – recreation building with main stage designed for drama, music, learning sessions or indoor activities. Multiple Campfire Sites High & Low Challenge Courses – great for team building! Land Sport Facilities – including basketball court, outdoor ball hockey arena, baseball diamond, and soccer pitch Waterfront Docks and Sandy Beach – for canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and swimming We have an experienced team on-site to help deliver your program, or facilitate your own. Our staff will work with you head of time to customize your experience and make sure your group has a unique experience developed just for them!

    Available for private rentals: Yes
    Kilcoo is available for rental groups during our spring and fall seasons, from about Victoria Day until the end of June and again from Labour day until Thanksgiving. Whether you're looking to host a corporate retreat, a family reunion, a wedding, or a private party, Kilcoo can accommodate most groups up to about 200 people. Facilities include: The Lodge – the dining hall located in the heart of camp which can comfortably seat your whole party and can quickly be turned into a large space for learning sessions or indoor activities. Games Room – indoor ping pong, pool, foosball, shuffleboard tables, and a small library. 40+ Sleeping Cabins – all with electricity and close access to washroom. Select cabins also have ensuites. Accessibility – fully accessible cabin with ramp, two accessible washrooms with grab bars and roll-in showers; can be used for sleeping accommodations or as a lounge/common space. Rec Hut – recreation building with main stage designed for drama, music, learning sessions or indoor activities. Multiple Campfire Sites with stone or log seating High & Low Challenge Courses – great for team building! Land Sport Facilities – including basketball court, outdoor ball hockey arena, baseball diamond, and large field for soccer, football, etc. Waterfront Docks and Sandy Beach – for canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and swimming We have an experienced team on-site to assist in anything your group needs, including running camp activities, setting up special events or spaces around camp, or performing in campfires. Please contact us at [email protected] to find out our rates and availability!



    Associations

    Ontario Camps Association Associations
    Canadian Camping Association/ Association des camps du Canada Associations
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