A Brief History of Boys Summer Camps in Algonquin Park, Ontario Canada

Franklin Gray and William Bennett, Rochester educators established one camp in the Algonquin Park wilderness of Ontario Canada called Camp Pathfinder in 1914. It has been operating unceasingly ever since, which is a wonderful achievement for any establishment. Though the ownership has changed many times and now rests with Michael Sladden, fortunately the unceasing operation has been maintained and that is a reflection of the unwavering commitment to continue the good work. Primarily started as canoeing camp it has now become famous for wilderness canoe trips and leadership programs.

Safety First for Boys at Summer Camp

Sure outdoor summer camps and wilderness summer camps sound very exciting! But isn’t there some risk involved? Right, there is risk involved when kids go out in to the deep waters on wild river canoeing or simple canoe adventures. There is risk involved when kids camp during wilderness canoe trips. That’s the reason we have a strong staff of 80 people who are highly trained and experienced in handling camping activities. Our counselors and guides are highly trained and carry certifications in first aid, life saving skills, and paddling. They also have the many years of camping and trip experiences in Camp Pathfinder.

The crucial ratio of campers to staff at most summer camps in Ontario Canada is 1:2

In simple terms, this means, for every two kids there is a trained staff watching for their safe being. A canoe trip typically has 9 men: three guides and counselors and six campers. Each canoe trip is headed by the Headman, who is assisted by two assistants comprising of one Second man and one Third man.

A professionally trained full time nurse in the infirmary takes care of any health complains that may arise during the boys’ camp stay. There is a full time on-call consulting physician from the local community to treat ailments, if needed.

The owners and senior camp staff at most boys summer camps in Ontario Canada are old campers. The love for the rivers, streams and wildlife in and around Algonquin Park, Ontario Canada keeps Campers and Staff coming back for generations. Many current and former Camper and Staff bring in their varied experience as educators, counselors, and sports instructors to give the kids the best they have. They are certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR). Their positive approach makes them role models for the kids during their traditional summer camp or adventure summer camp stay. All the Trip Staff are Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certified. Most staff members at boy’s summer camps in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada are Red Cross or NLS certified lifeguards. The counselor staffs are all young and aged 17-24. They possess specialized certifications as life guards and wilderness first aid providers. They are also certified swimming, ropes, or paddling instructors. Trip guides and area supervisors must pass a three years apprentice phase to work in the summer camp setting. In addition they have many years of camper experience.

At most boy summer camps in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada the philosophy is – “Camp is for the kids”. Their safety is therefore is top priority. These should assure parents about our concern for safety of their boys. It is helpful to remember a few safety tips when your kid is on a wilderness summer camp or even a traditional summer camp. Sun screen lotions are a staple item that one cannot forget to pack when heading for a boys summer camp. Extended exposure to sun rays and the reflected rays from the surface of the lake or river water could harm the skin. An eye glass capable of warding off the ultra violet rays is another essential item. So is a brimmed hat.

Bug and insect can pester in wilderness summer camps. Try using citronella oil based formula. Make sure that your kid has tested and packed these items. Whatever the nature of the boys’ summer camp these items are absolutely essential:

Sleeping Bag

Dry Bag

Rain jacket/pants

Life Jacket

Pillow

Laundry Bag

Flashlight

Repellents

Sunglasses

Good quality soaps and shampoos should be brought along. There are no stopping young boys from getting dirty at camp, but remaining dirty is discouraged as it could lead to various illnesses. A daily soap bath is mandatory at most of the boy’s summer camps in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada to ensure good hygiene for kids.

Contact as many of the boys summer camps and talk to the Camp Director to confirm about the items to be packed for your north woods summer camp experience. Many camps do stock several items for your historic summer camp trip. Together the camp staff will make sure that your boy comes equipped with the best items required adventure summer camp.