Camp WILD Backcountry
What is Camp WILD Backcountry?
August 16-18, 2024
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
Camp WILD is getting wilder! Join us for a three-day, two-night flatwater canoe trip into the wilds of Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. Whether you're a seasoned explorer seeking sisterhood with like-minded women or a curious newcomer eager to dip your paddle into the wonders of canoeing, this journey is for you.
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This expedition isn't just about traversing the wilderness—it's about empowerment, connection, and self-discovery. While we'll paddle together as a group, this weekend will also offer the classic Camp WILD choose-your-own-adventure style opportunities. Envision yourself lounging in hammocks, swaying gently beneath the canopy of trees, or embarking on mini excursions to cascade waterfalls.
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What magic unfolds when a group of amazing women hit the lake? Join us to find out!
Daily Paddling
Each day includes a few hours of flatwater paddling with an option to do more if you want to explore with a guide!
Relaxing at Camp
There will be plenty of time at the sites to swim, hang out in a hammock or explore.
Evening activities
Days will conclude around crackling campfires, sure to be filled with shared stories and laughter.
What is included?
An incredible weekend with like-minded women in the backcountry
Paddling lessons if required (no experience necessary)
Canoeing Equipment: 16’ 2-seat expedition canoes, paddles, PFDs, and other safety gear
Delicious and nutritious snacks and vegetarian meals (7) - including Friday lunch and Sunday lunch
Camp Equipment: tarp, cooking stoves, dishes, water filter, all storage for food and group equipment
Safety Equipment: first aid kit and satellite phone
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park Permits (including parking)
A technology free weekend to disconnect to reconnect
A drugs and alcohol free weekend to connect with your truest self
What's NOT included?
Personal camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad)
Clothing, toiletries, etc (full packing list will be provided)
Transportation to the Long Lake Access Point (we will help arrange carpools)
About Kawartha Highlands
Camp WILD acknowledges that the Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is located on Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig (Mississauga Anishinaabeg) territory. We recognize that the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations have lived in relationship with these lands and waters since time immemorial. We deeply honour this connection and pledge to uphold our responsibility as settlers to care and respect the land throughout our journey and beyond, across Turtle Island.
What to expect
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is only accessible by personal vehicle - Camp WILD encourages, and will help facilitate, car pooling where possible.
This event is in the backcountry and while there is no paddling experience necessary a basic level of fitness is required for paddling and portaging.
There will be no running water or flush toilets in the backcountry
Tents, sleeping bags and sleeping pads are required (if you do not own these items they are often available to rent from many outdoor stores or you can look for gear lending libraries such as the Ottawa Outdoor Gear Library or the Adventure Report Gear Borrowing)
We will be paddling every day as a group but there will also be time to choose your own adventure - day trips, hammock lounging, swimming and exploring
Day 1
Before setting out onto Long Lake, we'll gather to ensure everyone feels confident with their paddling skills. Our journey to the first campsite, located a few hours away, will be unhurried, allowing us to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. It's worth noting that there won't be any portaging required on this initial day and we'll have lots of opportunity to get to know each other relax at our new home for the night.
Day 2
Day Two begins with a delicious breakfast, fueling us for the day ahead. After packing up, we'll leave the busier shores of Long Lake behind, venturing into the serene waters of Louks Lake and then Cox Lake. Don't worry if you're new to portaging; we will host you into the experience and each of these first portages are brief, less than 200 meters each.
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Once we've set up our new camp, you'll have the freedom to choose your own adventure. Join us for a guided excursion to some cascade waterfalls or opt for a leisurely day at camp, where you can unwind, explore, or take a refreshing swim. As evening falls, we'll come together once more for a memorable night by the campfire.
Day 3
The excitement continues! Our activities will keep us engaged until around 4 p.m., allowing ample opportunity to enjoy our campsite, embark on a group expedition, or pursue individual adventures. With no pressure to hurry, we'll savour each precious moment unplugged immersed in nature and leisurely journey back to the Long Lake Access Point.
Investment: $875 + HST
This price includes a $25 donation to the WILD Woman Bursary.
If contributing to the bursary isn't feasible for you at the moment, please don't hesitate to reach out to campwild@wildawakenings.ca, and we will adjust your invoice accordingly.
Payment plans are available upon request and we will create a plan together that works for you! This includes extending payments beyond the date of camp.
Cancellation Policy
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Full refunds are possible up until 6 weeks before camp, July 5th, minus a $50 administration fee.
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Between July 5th, and up to 14 days before the event, August 2nd, you will be eligible to a full refund minus a 10% event deposit.
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As of August 2nd you are welcome to offer your spot to a friend, and/or if we can fill your spot from a waiting list we will refund your full registration fee, minus a $50 administration fee.
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Should the event be cancelled due to unforeseeable circumstances you will receive a full refund.
Meet the Team
Questions?
Not sure if Camp WILD Backcountry is for you? Email us and let's chat!
