Algonquin Canoe Camping

Escape the city and immerse yourself in Ontario’s legendary Algonquin Provincial Park. 🌲 Paddle across mirror-calm lakes, carry your gear along forested portages, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars, far from roads, screens, and the noise of daily life.

This is not a guided luxury trip, it’s a true backcountry adventure. You will carry your own pack, pitch your own tent, and share in group camp life. The rewards include crisp morning mist on the water, golden sunsets through the pines, and the deep sense of accomplishment that comes from travelling light in the wilderness.

🌈 Who’s This For?

This trip is open to everyone, with a special invitation to our 2SLGBTQ+ community. It’s perfect if you:

• Want a challenge and a reset

• Are comfortable being off-grid with no cell service

• Can carry 30–45 lbs of gear over uneven ground

• Do not mind getting a little wet, muddy, and tired along the way

• Love earning your views and ending the day around a campfire

🗓️ Trip Itinerary

Tuesday, Sept 16 – Optional pre-trip orientation at 6:00 PM at T’s Pub (323 Somerset Street West, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8). Meet your trip mates, review the route, and go over gear so you’re fully prepared for the backcountry.
Friday, Sept 19 – Depart Ottawa at 2:45 PM, paddle from Shall Lake Access Point into Crotch Lake, set up camp before sunset.
Saturday, Sept 20 – Paddle and portage into quiet Shirley Lake, swim, explore, and unwind.
Sunday, Sept 21 – Continue deeper into the backcountry to Bridle Lake for a night of true solitude.
Monday, Sept 22 – Early morning paddle out via Farm Lake, return to Ottawa in the afternoon.

Total portaging: 3.46 km over the weekend.

✅ What’s Included

• Canoes, paddles, and PFDs

• Tents, camp stoves, and water filters

• Sleeping bags and sleeping pads

• Park permits and campsite bookings

• Meals and snacks (majority will be lightweight dehydrated meals suitable for backcountry travel)

• Route planning, packing list, and prep support

• Personal coaching if you are new to backcountry travel

🎒 What to Bring

• Clothing suitable for layering in early fall (5–20°C)

• Personal toiletries and medications

• Headlamp, water bottle(s), eating utensils, and snacks

• A positive attitude, rain or shine

A detailed packing list will be provided after registration.

🚗 Transportation

We will depart from central Ottawa. Carpooling will be arranged among participants, with mileage reimbursement for drivers transporting others.

🌿 Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that this adventure takes place on the traditional territory of the Algonquin First Nation. We honour their ongoing stewardship and commit to respecting the land and all living beings who call it 

home.

📋 How to Register

Add this adventure to your cart and check out to secure your spot. Once registered, our volunteers will connect with you to share detailed trip info, packing guidance, and transportation coordination.

No roads. No screens. No shortcuts. Just paddle strokes, trail dust, and the quiet of Algonquin.