Summer Adventure Camps

Adventure Camps: Two in Profile

A closer look at couple of adventure camps shows us why kids go way out of their way to spend part of their summer there.

At Camp Bil-O-Wood in Blind River, canoeing is the focus, with trips that last as long as 15 days. Not only is it exhilarating, but canoeing, which like everyday life involves some risk, can also help build character, says Paul Ludwig, the camp's director. "Probably the most important lesson kids learn is how to rely on the other kids. You all have to work as a team."

Camp IAWAH — located on Wolfe Lake near Westport, Ontario — is one of many adventure camps with some traditional camp components. While risk is key to the kids' adventure-filled experience, the risk is always age-appropriate to the campers, with an emphasis on safety, says camp director Jeff Friesen. Out-tripping, including extended canoe trips, is a big focus, with other activities along the camp's waterfront. Campers tend to develop strong friendships as they attempt activities they've never tried before, but as a team. "It's all about shared experiences," Friesen says.

For Isabella, a 13-year-old from Ottawa, kneeboarding is one of her favourite activities. Since age four, Isabella has attended Camp IAWAH. Every year, the challenges have escalated, but adventure camp affords experiences she wouldn't be able to have at home or even at a family cottage, she says. "You make new friends from your cabin, and then you meet other people at activities," she says.

Photo: Camp IAWAH (by Fred Chartrand)

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