Wilderness Counsellor Skills Development (4 weeks)

This 4-week immersive program allows campers to develop their leadership skills, form close connections with their peers, gain a canoe tripping certification, and build their experience in canoeing, backcountry camping, and other wilderness skills. 

During their month at camp, WCSD campers will learn about effective leadership, develop their personal leadership strengths, and participate in initiatives, teambuilding activities, and adventure programming. The program develops teamwork, communication, and collaboration, with a particular focus on wilderness skills and experiences. Campers are supported and guided through taking on new responsibilities, acting as role models within our camp community, and expanding their wilderness skills and knowledge. 

This program focuses on the development of "hard" skills, including canoeing, portaging, navigation, fire-building, and wilderness safety. It includes a 3-night ORCKA certifying canoe trip, and a longer 7-night trip where WCSD campers have the chance to apply their skills, overcome challenges as a group, and experience the beauty of backcountry camping in Algonquin Park. 

Spending a whole month at camp also provides campers with tons of opportunity to try out various camp activities, ranging from sailing and rock climbing to wetland exploration and drama. WCSD campers also get the chance to design and run a camp-wide program as a group, participate in lots of wacky games and theme days, and be part of a close-knit group of like-aged peers. 

Though canoe tripping is a significant component of this program, previous experience is not required. Both trips are designed to meet campers where they are at, introduce key skills and concepts, and provide opportunities for growth in a supportive, encouraging setting.