Wildcamp in Canada with Camp Outlook
Listing summary
Camp Outlook is a non profit summer camp based in Kingston, Ontario, that takes at risk youth on wilderness canoe trips in Algonquin and Frontenac Provincial Parks. As a volunteer canoe trip leader you spend the whole Canadian summer outdoors, guiding 5, 9 and 14 day trips, sharing simple camp life and helping young people connect with nature. The camp covers food, accommodation, training and key certifications such as first aid and lifeguarding, so you only bring your time, energy and love of the outdoors. It is a full time residential role for curious and adventurous people who enjoy working in small teams and camping in remote areas.
Status update: Camp Outlook continues to run summer and winter volunteer canoe programs. Please check their official website for current dates, requirements and application deadlines.
Please note: This volunteer project listing may be outdated. Information regarding availability, dates, tasks, and requirements might change. Always contact the organisation or visit the official website to confirm the project’s current status before making plans.
Wildcamp in Canada – volunteer canoe trip leaders
Camp Outlook is a not for profit camp that takes at risk youth on 5, 9 and 14 day canoe trips in Algonquin Provincial Park and Frontenac Provincial Park. By volunteering as a canoe trip leader you gain useful outdoor certifications (for example Bronze Medallion / Cross, Advanced Wilderness First Aid, Mental Health First Aid) and make strong friendships and memories in the process. The camp is recruiting for its summer season and no previous tripping experience is required, only a good attitude and a love of learning and adventure.
Volunteering with Camp Outlook
Camp Outlook trip leaders come from many walks of life and are fun, open minded, dedicated and kind. Although leaders are not paid, they benefit from spending time with incredible youth and from learning how to lead small, self reliant groups in the wilderness. Volunteers are motivated by a wish to share their love of canoe tripping and camping, to learn new skills and to work in a cooperative social group.
Summer volunteers
As summer staff you join an inclusive, hands on team that takes youth on canoe trips in Algonquin Park. For many campers this is their first wilderness experience and you share your knowledge and love for the outdoors with them. All costs associated with the placement are covered by Camp Outlook, including shared accommodation, food and training. The camp also pays for certifications such as CPR “C” / First Aid, Bronze Cross, Advanced Wilderness First Aid and Mental Health First Aid. You spend a lot of time outside, teaching youth to paddle, set up camp and stay safe in changing weather.
Who you are
- Curious and adventurous, ready to jump into new challenges and learn from others.
- A good communicator who listens first, then shares knowledge.
- Excited to spend long periods of time outdoors with youth.
- Available to volunteer from May to August.
Bonus experience
- Previous work with youth.
- Experience as an activity instructor or outdoor guide.
- Enjoyment of campfire life and simple living in nature.
Training and season outline
The summer season begins with about four weeks of intensive staff training in May and early June, where you build the skills you need to lead youth on canoe trips. Training ends with an eight day staff canoe trip to practise together. Between July and August you usually lead three or four canoe trips with youth. Most trips are nine days long, with at least one five day and one fourteen day trip in the programme. There are also winter season opportunities, which you can explore on the camp website.
Project details
What type of host are you?
- Non profit organisation / youth camp
What are you looking for help with?
- Youth work and outdoor education
- General camp support and logistics
Volunteer schedule and conditions
This is a full time residential volunteer position for the whole summer season. Volunteers live on site with other leaders, take part in all training and trip preparation and then co lead canoe trips with youth. The camp covers food, accommodation, equipment and listed certifications, so there are no programme fees, but you should be ready for long days outside and simple living conditions.
What to do in your free time
Between training blocks and canoe trips you can relax at base camp, explore the local lakes and forest, visit Kingston or simply rest, read and enjoy time with fellow volunteers.
Language
English
Geography
Camp Outlook is based in Kingston, Ontario, with canoe trips in Algonquin Provincial Park and Frontenac Provincial Park, areas known for lakes, forest, wildlife and classic Canadian shield scenery.
CONTACT DETAILS 🔍📧
For updated information and to apply, please visit the official Camp Outlook volunteer page:
👉 https://www.campoutlook.ca/volunteers
Direct application form:
👉 Volunteer application form
Winter season information:
👉 https://www.campoutlook.ca/winter