Return to top

The campers at Ekon range in age from 8 to 14 and have the opportunity to participate in the LIT1 and LIT2 Leaders in Training programs beginning at 14 or 15 years of age. Being a camper at Ekon means being a part of a community, learning shared and individual skills in instructions, chillin' out, playing games in programs, making new friends from all over the place, and most importantly campers are here to have FUN.

Return to top

Ekon sits on a 10 acre peninsula jutting into the northern end of Lake Joseph. In many ways it has the feel of an island. The 600 metre (2000 ft) of waterfront gives the impression of a much larger property. Indeed, it is the extensive waterfront that gives Ekon the ability to offer such a wide variety of water oriented programs without campers falling over each other. Starting with the beach area near the entrance driveway, programs wend their way around the peninsula:

• swimming and life-saving activities at the beach;
• sailing at the sailing dock;
• canoeing at the canoe dock;
• special activities at the ski dock;
• windsurfing and kayaking at its dock; and finally
• the Out Post beach.

The area between the ski dock and the Kayak dock is a high rocky face overlooking the lake (off limits to campers). At the top of this face is the main building "Stanley House," the converted old resort hotel that houses the dining hall, camper showers, kitchen and staff quarters. The view from the north-west corner of the main building is quite impressive, especially the beautiful Muskoka sunsets. The climbing wall is attached to this same corner of the main building.

The interior of the property is divided into five areas:

1. the lower field, just above the beach area, which offers archery, volleyball, and Council Ring;
2. the flagpole area, a gathering place for campers enclosed by the Cord Hut, the Deer Hut, the Rock Hut (the old Stanley House Post Office), the Br. Dan Brady, S.J. Arts Studio, Stanley House and the Maintenance/Tripping shed;
3. the enclosed multi-purpose court, at the highest point in the centre of the property, used for basketball and programming;
4. the Challenge Course area, consisting of high and low ropes elements designed to develop leadership and teamwork skills;
5. the Out Post, a wooded area consisting of five simple, no electricity, cabins known as the Bear Hut.

The most beautiful building on site is the Br. Dan Brady, S.J. Art Studio. Br. Brady, who died in 2003, spent many years at Ekon and he built the original studio building. In 1993 a generous benefactor provided the funding for a total refurbishment of the building. The studio now houses both the art and drama programs. Situated directly on the lake, next to the Kayak dock, the Art Studio is a classic Muskoka design offering large windows and a beautiful deck opening onto the expanse of the lake.

To see pictures of the camp grounds, visit our photo gallery or click here.

Return to top

Camp Ekon offers 1, 2, 3, and 4 week programs. All of the programs include an exciting paddle, cook-out, camp fire and sleepover at Ekon's "Little Chief" island, weather permitting.

Discovery Camp (Ages 8-11)

The one and two-week week Discovery camps engage campers in a variety of arts and sports programming. Community, friendship, and fun, are the some of the many values the program aims to teach. Register now!

Challenge Camp (Ages 12-14)

Challenge Camp is a two-week program for campers who want a more intense experience. In addition to the arts and sports programs, Challenge Camp adds an emphasis on environmental awareness through environmental science activities and outdoor adventure based programming. Register now!

Senior Camp (Ages 12-14)

Senior Camp offers youth ages 12-14 a more intermediate experience of camp life. Campers live in age-appropriate huts and share afternoon and evening programs through fast-paced, variety-filled arts and sports programming. Registration in all instructional activities is subject to availability. Register now!

The Senior Camp is only offered in one week sessions. The Challenge Camp program is offered for campers in this age bracket interested in two week sessions.

Tripping Program (Ages 11-15)

The canoe trips cover 50 to 70 km by paddling and portaging in Algonquin Provincial Park. Participants should be prepared for a challenging experience. Non-swimmers and anaphylactic campers need to contact the director before registering for the program. Two qualified trip leaders accompany every wilderness trip. Preparation for trip includes safety and skill instruction prior to departing. Trippers share every aspect of the trip: packing (When packing, remember that less is best!), paddling, portage, cooking and setting/striking camp. Register now!

Return to top

Summer 2010

Registration begins in December.

PST and GST will be added to all fees prior to May 1, and beginning May 1 HST will be added to all fees, replacing PST and GST.

PLEASE NOTE: All outstanding camp fees must be paid by June 1st or will be subject to a $50 administration fee. If this is not possible, please contact the office to make late payment arrangements.

Campers receive a free Ekon T-shirt.

Sessions in red and struck through are full.

Boys Camps

Junior Boys Camp - Ages 8 to 11

Senior Boys Camp - Ages 12 to 14

Girls Camps

Girls Junior Camp - Ages 8 to 11

Girls Senior Camp - Ages 12 to 14

Wilderness Canoe Tripping Camps

Boys Tripping - Ages 11 to 15

Girls Tripping - Ages 11 to 15

Return to top

What are instructions?

Each morning campers participate in three instructions. The camp offers a variety of skill building instructions, where campers are taught the skills of swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, ropes, climbing wall, arts and crafts, drama, or basketball. Each camper selects four instruction choices, three of which they are registered in. Campers attend the same three instructions for the entire duration of the session. For many returning campers, choosing instructions is one of the most challenging decisions in preparing for camp each summer!

Click here to see a complete list of instructions.

Back to schedule

What happens during afternoon program?

Each afternoon the campers participate in a group activity with the members of their hut. Each of the four huts: Deer, Cord, Rock, and Bear, participate in different activities. Head Counsellors spend agonizing amounts of time in preparation to ensure that each afternoon activity is unique, challenging, and of course fun!

Back to schedule

What is general swim?

Every day the campers have general swim. Campers are asked to find a "buddy" to join them at the waterfront. This is a great opportunity for friends and relatives who don't end up in the same cabin to spend some quality time together. For safety and supervision purposes general swim is mandatory. Campers who do not want to swim must also spend this hour at the waterfront and usually find other ways to pass the time (such reading as a book, building a sand castle, or playing a game of cards).

Back to schedule

What are clubs?

Each afternoon, following general swim, campers participate in "clubs." For the most part, clubs are offered in all of the areas that instructions are offered in. Unlike instructions, clubs change each week- thus giving campers the opportunity to experience as many different activities as possible. This is a great opportunity for friends and relatives who don't end up in the same cabin to spend some quality time together. Campers will sign up for clubs while at the camp.

Back to schedule

What happens during free time?

Mass is offered on site before dinner each day. For many campers who choose to take this time to pray together it is often a highlight of their experience at Ekon. The daily mass is celebrated in a non traditional fashion, in that it takes place in the newly built Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Chapel overlooking beautiful Lake Joseph and campers are encouraged to participate, often through being given the opportunity to dialogue about the gospel during the homily. All campers are welcome at mass regardless of their religious affiliation. Other campers may choose to use this time as free time before dinner.

Free time after meals can be spent in the flag pole area or at the Multi-Purpose Court.

Back to schedule

What happens during evening program?

Each evening the campers participate in a group activity with the members of their hut. Each of the four huts: Deer, Cord, Rock, and Bear, participate in different activities. Head Counsellors spend agonizing amounts of time in preparation to ensure that each evening activity is unique, challenging, and of course fun!

Back to schedule

Return to top

The following are lists of what to pack for on-site sessions, tripping, as well as what to leave at home.

Suggestions:

• Old clothes that are not your favourites are always best.
• Clearly mark your child's name on all belongings.
• Expect some items to succumb to the rigours of camp life.
• Odds of clothing returning home are increased if a list of items is put in a pocket of your child's suitcase or knapsack.
• Further suggestions, alternatives and recommendations can be found throughout...

What to pack for on-site camp sessions:

• All medications (please label and pack separately or in the top of suitcase)
• Sleeping bag or blanket and pillow (a fitted bed sheet is recommended)
• Shoes: be sure to have a pair of running shoes (a second pair of shoes or sandals is recommended)
• T-Shirts (3 per week)
• Shorts (2 per week)
• Pants (2 per week)
• Pyjamas, underwear, socks
• Toiletries (biodegradable soaps preferred)
• Sweatshirt or Fleece
• Bathing Suits (2)
• reusable water bottle
• hat/bandanna
• raincoat/windbreaker
• Towels (2 per week e.g. 1 for showers, 1 for the beach)
• Bug Spray, Sun Screen (Please be sure to label these)
• Flashlight (and an extra set of batteries)
• Suggested: Books or magazines to read, a deck of cards, pre-addressed and stamped envelopes, pen and paper to write home, plain white shirt for arts and crafts, laundry bag (extra pillowcase)

Please leave at home:

• Bottled water
• Snacks
• Electronics (iPods, MP3 players, video cameras, Game Boys, radios, etc.)
• Cell phones
• Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons
• Aerosol cans
• Any valuables that may be lost or damaged

What to pack for trip:

• All medications (please label and pack separately or in the top of suitcase)
• Day clothes: lightweight T-shirt, shorts and a bathing suit
• Pyjamas, underwear, and socks
• Waterproof stuff sack/dry sack (20 L is the appropriate size, and for durability at camp try to avoid thin nylon versions)
• Raingear
• Site clothes: long-sleeved shirt or sweatshirt/fleece and long pants
• Small sleeping bag (needs to fit in the 20 L dry sack)
• Reusable Water Bottle
• 1 pair running shoes or hiking boots
• Site shoes (these should be sturdy footwear that let the air in, like sandals or Crocs)
• A waterproof whistle on a string (like a Fox 40)
• Flashlight
• Toiletries
• Hat/bandanna
• Waterproof sunscreen and non-aerosol bug spray
• Complete change of clothes and a towel to be left at camp in a small backpack

Optional for trip:

• Deck of cards
• Small 'pack' towel
• Book or magazines (please send in a ziplock)
• Journal, supplies to write letters, etc. (please send in a ziplock)
• Camera (disposable is recommended)
• Toque and warm socks for cold nights (especially good for trips later in the summer)

Please email info@ekon.ca with any questions

Return to top

At the request of many parents over the years, the camp continues to try to increase the fruit, vegetable, and real milk content of its meal plan. Its aim is to decrease the amount of prepared and packaged foods served to the kids and instead have more nutritious meals made from scratch.

Here is an example of what a day's meals may look like:

Breakfast

Served at 8:30 am

• French toast
• Fresh cut melon and pineapple
• Optional bananas and apples
• Juice

Lunch

Served at 12:45 pm

• Chicken fajitas
• Sliced cucumber, carrots, and dip
• Homemade vegetable soup
• Small desert offered after lunch, usually fruit

Dinner

Served at 6:30 pm

• Spaghetti in homemade bolognaise sauce
• Caesar salad
• Bruschetta garlic bread
• Desert offered after dinner

Snacks and Drinks

Snacks, including fruit, are provided between meals.

Campers also have access to clean, purified, provincially regulated water. They are encouraged to carry water bottles and to consume water many times throughout the day.

Do you have a favourite meal?

Let us know what you like to eat. If it's healthy, tasty, and we have the ingredients and time, we will do our best to accommodate you.

Return to top

Each morning campers (including LIT 1s) participate in three instructions. The camp offers a variety of skill building instructions, where campers are taught the skills of swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, ropes, climbing wall, arts and crafts, drama, or basketball. Each camper selects four instruction choices, three of which they are registered in. Campers attend the same three instructions for the entire duration of the session. For many returning campers, choosing instructions is one of the most challenging decisions in preparing for camp each summer!

Campers indicate their preferences in the instruction form provided on the registration page. We will make every effort to accommodate your choices. However, please be aware that instructions have limited spaces available. All first time campers take canoeing.

Here is the list of instructions:

Swimming

Qualified instructors follow the Canadian Red Cross Aqua Quest Program and Canadian Lifesaving Society Program.

All campers are swim tested on arrival day and those who have chosen this instruction will be placed in their appropriate class level. Parents are asked to provide a photocopy of their child's most recent level attained. Please note that swimming in a lake is quite different from swimming in a pool, which might have an impact on the swim level chosen. Your child will be put in the most appropriate level, at the discretion of the examiner.

Certain levels may not be offered if there is insufficient enrolment. Bronze Medallion (min. 13 years old) and Bronze Cross (min. 14 years old and completion of Bronze Medallion) are only offered during the two-week sessions. These levels will take 2 morning instructions.

FOR ALL WATER SPORTS, AT LEAST AQUA QUEST LEVEL 4 AND COMFORT IN WATER ARE RECOMMENDED.

Canoeing

All first time campers take canoeing. Ekon is a member of the Ontario Recreational Canoeing Association (ORCA). Campers are progressively led through the parts of the paddle and canoe as well as the basic strokes necessary to safely control the canoe. Emphasis is placed on developing the skills to enjoy a safe canoeing experience.

Kayaking

Kayaking helps to develop self-confidence and a sense of independence. The instruction teaches proper entry, exciting manoeuvres, and the different paddling strokes necessary for the safe and efficient use of the kayak.

Windsurfing

This instruction begins with an introduction to the parts of the windsurfer and the proper positioning of the body of the board. While on the water campers are further instructed on the skills of windsurfing by staff in a motorboat.

Sailing

This instruction begins with an introduction to the parts of the sailboat and proper use of the sail. Sailing helps to develop self-confidence and teaches teamwork. While on the water campers are further instructed on the skills of sailing by staff in a motorboat.

Archery

Campers are taught the components of the bow and arrow and the proper stance. With an emphasis on safety and respect for the bow and arrow's power, Archery helps the campers develop skills of concentration and focus.

Basketball

Campers in this instruction are encouraged to develop their basketball skills and knowledge. Campers are taught the basic elements of footwork, dribbling, passing and catching, shooting and defensive techniques. Teamwork and sportsmanship are emphasized.

Ropes Course

The ropes course instruction gives campers the opportunity to develop trust and confidence through a series of group building and personal challenge activities. Low ropes elements develop teamwork and problem solving skills. Challenge by choice and setting personal goals are promoted. We make use of both the high and low ropes elements during this instruction.

Climbing Wall

The climbing wall instruction gives campers the opportunity to develop trust and confidence through a series of group building and personal challenge activities. The initial trust games develop teamwork and problem solving skills. Challenge by choice and setting personal goals are emphasized as campers experience various routes on Ekon's three-story climbing wall.

Drama

Using our own mini-theatre with stage, campers are led through a series of activities to develop communication skills, self-confidence, and creativity. The instruction usually culminates in an original presentation performed by the drama students for the camp.

Arts and Crafts

This instruction offers a wide exposure to a variety of art activities including bead work, crafts, painting, candle making, puppetry, modeling clay, etc. Campers are introduced to the elements of design in a fun and creative atmosphere.

Pottery

Offered only in 2 week sessions. This instruction is an introduction to pottery methods including slab, coil, glazing, and firing. Other 3D sculpture techniques such as wire sculpture and plaster of paris are explored. Campers are encouraged to develop their artistic talents as they enjoy creating their own work at one of our pottery wheels in the studio.

Jewellery Making

When there is sufficient demand, we offer jewellery making. Here we use embroidery thread, bead looms and much more to make anything from hairclips and key chains to bracelets, earrings and our own beads.

Ultimate Frisbee

This instruction is perfect if you already know the game, or are curious to try it. We offer it when there is sufficient demand.

Sports

Anything from soccer and ultimate, to basketball and dodge ball. This instruction is offered with sufficient demand and will involve a variety of sports throughout the session.

Return to top

Camp Ekon is welcoming to special needs campers and runs integrated programming. We provide a supportive environment for kids within a group and for individual needs. All staff are trained according to the specific special needs campers coming up each summer.

Everything possible is done to ensure the safety of all campers. Counselors are able to adapt activities to support the abilities of all campers. There are special needs coordinators on Senior Staff and there are counseling staff liaisons to ensure a network of communication between the camper, the camper's parents and staff.

In order to provide the best support we can to special needs campers, we do limit enrolment according to available staffing for the given session.

Return to top

Transportation from Toronto to Ekon

Transportation to Ekon is available at a cost of $40 and departs from St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School Sundays at 2:00 pm. Families driving their child to camp should arrive between 2:00 and 4:00 pm. DO NOT ARRIVE before 2:00 pm. We will not register campers and are not responsible for supervision of campers prior to 2:00 pm.

Directions to St. Agnes School (Bus Pick Up)

From the intersection of Yonge & Steeles

1. Go east on Steeles Avenue (towards Bayview Avenue)
2. Turn right on to Maxome Avenue... if you reach Bayview Avenue you have gone too far
3. Turn left on Otonabee Avenue (the third street on the left)
4. Otonabee Avenue dead ends in a turn around circle
5. The school is on the left and the van or bus will be waiting in the circle for pick-up and drop-off

Do you need a map to St. Agnes School?

If you do, enter your street number, street name, city, and province in the field below. (For example: 1325 Bay Street Toronto Ontario). A map with directions will appear in a new window.

Directions to Camp Ekon

1. Take Hwy 400 north past Barrie
2. When the Hwy splits, take Hwy 69 towards Parry Sound, NOT Hwy 11
3. Go north on Hwy 69 until EXIT #189 (the old Hwy 69 just south of Mactier)
4. Turn right onto Hwy 169 (at Foot's Bay) towards Gravenhurst
5. Turn left onto Hwy 118 towards Port Carling/Bracebridge
6. Turn left on to Muskoka Road #7 (also called Peninsula Rd to Rosseau)... if you reach Port Carling you have gone too far
7. Go through the towns of Port Sandfield and Minett
8. Make a left on to Stanley House Rd (about 10 minutes after Minett - Peacock Rd is just before Stanley House Rd)
9. Go right at the first fork in the road
10. Go left at the second fork in the road, our driveway is 1.5 km on the right

Transportation from Ekon to Toronto

Transportation from Ekon is available at a cost of $40 and arrives at St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School Saturdays at 1:00 pm. Families picking their child up at camp are asked to arrive on Saturday between 9:30 am and 11:30 am.

Parents who wish to have their camper picked up from camp or from the bus by some one other than a legal guardian must supply written authorization to the camp director in advance.

PLEASE NOTE: There is a $25 fee for any bus cancellation after June 1st.