French River Canoe Trip

Ages 14 - 17

In August we offer a 6-day canoe trip into the interior lakes and rivers of the French River Provincial Park. Following the route that the fur trading First Nations and European voyageurs traveled in the early days of our country canoe trippers do a loop on the Lower French River spending at least one night on the beautiful shore of Georgian Bay!

Canoe Trip Programme

This trip is open to campers with all levels of out-tripping and canoeing experience. Necessary skills including paddling, portaging, fire-building, orienteering, meal-planning/preparation, packing and tent assembly are learned during a preparatory time at Camp Celtic prior to departure. These skills are further developed on the trip, while the philosophy and practices of environmentally sound, no-trace camping are the underlying theme.

Accompanying the trip will be 3 or 4 (depending on camper numbers) experienced Celtic staff with Wilderness First-Aid and Life-guarding certifications.

Along with the development of canoe tripping skills, campers have the opportunity to grow individually in a rugged outdoor setting, making friendships of a lifetime with other campers and experienced Celtic counsellors. Immersed in fresh air, clean water, and starry night skies, out-trippers build life skills such as self-confidence, co-operation, leadership, and a deep appreciation for themselves, others and nature.

Instructed by our Camp Celtic canoeing staff, the skills learned in class and on the trip allow all participants to come home with an ORCKA level 1, 2, or 3 basic canoeing certification.

Canoe Trip Programme

Canoe Tripping is a physically and mentally demanding activity. Campers need to be in good health and be a proficient swimmer to participate in the programme.

Packing List

  • Camping backpack (50 - 80 litres)
  • Sleeping bag (Sleeping mat optional)
  • Raincoat
  • Warm fleece or wool sweater (not cotton)
  • Pants (not jeans)
  • T-Shirts (a few)
  • Bathing suit and light towel
  • Socks and Underwear (5 pairs)
  • Hiking boots or sturdy hiking shoes
  • Water Bottle
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Journal and pen
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, bio-degradable soap, personal hygiene items
  • Camera (optional)

2023 Summer Camp Dates

Session 1 | One Week

Sunday July 2nd - Saturday July 8th

Session 2 | Ten Day

Sunday July 9th - Tuesday July 18th

Rookie Camp | Three Days

Tuesday Jul 18th - Thursday July 20th

Session 3 | Nine Days

Friday July 21st - Saturday July 29th

Session 4 | One Week

Sunday July 30th- Saturday August 5th

Session 5 | One Week

Sunday August 6th- Saturday August 12th

Session 6 | One Week

Sunday August 13th - Saturday August 19th

Session 7 | Sports Camp - Six Days

Sunday August 20th – Friday August 25th

French River Canoe Trip

Thursday August 10th - Saturday August 19th

Leader in Training | Session Two - 10 Days

Sunday July 9th - Tuesday July 18th

Leader in Training | Session Three - 9 Days

Friday July 21st - Saturday July 29th