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Conservation Halton’s Summer Camp!

Ways of the Woods summer camp is sure to be the highlight of your kids’ summer vacation! Hosted by Conservation Halton, Ways of the Woods utilizes almost all of the Conservation Halton parks including Kelso, Mountsberg, and Crawford Lake, across unique and diverse camp programming. With so much to see, do, and learn, your campers will never get bored with the incredible selection of our different camp offerings including:

  • Mountain Bike Camp
  • Waterfront Camp
  • Farm Camp
  • Construction Camp
  • Athletic Camp
  • Girls Camp
  • Adventure Camps

The wide variety across our camp programs aim to keep your kids active and engaged, and begging to come back year after year! Ways of the Woods makes it easy to ensure your kids are having fun all summer long without coordinating multiple camps. With camp programming ranging from ages 4 to 15, you can keep the kids together in the same camp, though they will be having wildly different adventures! Ways of the Woods is the camp your kids will never want to leave.

Ways of the Woods is a member of the Ontario Camps Association, so you can feel safe in knowing you are sending your children to an accredited organization with professional counsellors and staff.

Camp Programming

Ways of the Woods Programming

With Primary, Junior, and Senior programs spanning almost all of our parks with everything from adventure to construction, from farm animals to mountain biking, there is something for everyone! No matter what camp you choose, one thing is for sure- your kids will always be active, having fun, and learning something new! All of our camp programs run 9AM – 4PM.

Please note that your child must be the specified age on the first day of the camp program.
*Activities listed below are subject to change based on weather and availability.
**Please note that Kinder camps are no longer available at this time. Climber camp is also sold out.

Core Primary Programs

Kinder WOW

Ages: 4–5
Weeks available: 1 – 9
Activities: Archery, Swimming, Paddle Boating, Camp Games, Tie Dye, Indigenous Education, Low Ropes, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg, Crawford Lake

Though Kinders may be small in size, we all know they are big in energy, and this camp is a fantastic way for them to burn it off! Kinder WOW Camp is a week of fun and adventure in a safe and supportive environment. Campers learn that the outdoors is the perfect place to explore and experiment, and also a great place to make new friends. In small groups, led by our experienced staff, Kinders get to explore the trails and activity centres of Kelso, Mountsberg, and Crawford Lake.

Wee WOW

Ages: 6-8
Weeks available: 1 – 9
Activities: Archery, Swimming, Paddle Boating, Camp Games. Tie Dye, Indigenous Education,  Gagaball. Low Ropes, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg, Crawford Lake

Ways of the Woods is an exciting place to grow and learn! Wee WOW campers make the most of summer by exploring our parks, visiting fields and forests, meeting our raptors, going boating, swimming, and so much more. Wee WOW will visit Kelso, Mountsberg, and Crawford Lake.

Specialty Primary Programs

Wee Farm & Flight

Ages: 6-8
Weeks available: 1-9
Activities: Gardening, Raptor Show, Animal Feeding/Care, Paddle Boating, Swimming, Tie Dye, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg

The best of both worlds! Young campers who cannot wait for Farm or Raptor Camp will love this blend! A sampling of Raptor and Farm Camp with activities targeted to these younger campers. Come and get hands on with some incredible birds of prey and explore the farm! Discover new interests and learn about some of the most unique facilities that Conservation Halton has to offer!

Core Junior Programs

Explorer Camp

Ages: 8 – 12
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Swimming, Tie Dye, Boating, Indigenous Education, Archery, Low Ropes, Gagaball Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg, Crawford Lake

Join us for a week of camp like none other! Campers get their hands dirty in the great outdoors, enjoy time at the beach, test their abilities at our archery range, and much more. Campers will experience all of the best that Kelso and Mountsberg have to offer during their week at camp.

 

Girls Camp

Ages: 8 – 14
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Archery, Swimming, Tie Dye, Boating, Indigenous Education, Archery, Camp Games, Gagaball Low Ropes and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg, Crawford Lake

Made for girls and led by girls, this camp is a great way to learn about the outdoors and develop new skills. Campers will experience all of the best that Kelso, Mountsberg, and Crawford Lake have to offer, and they’ll have loads of fun along the way.

Specialty Junior Programs

Farm Camp

Ages: 8 – 12
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Gardening, Animal feeding. Grooming. Swimming, Boating, Tie Dye and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso & Mountsberg

Come get your hands dirty and learn what makes a garden grow. Farm Camp will focus on growing fruits and veggies, as well the effort it takes to care for animals. From honey bees to fruit trees, bunnies to horses, our farm campers do it all. Come foster your green thumb and learn what it takes to keep a farm in operation! Farm Camp operates at Mountsberg. Campers will also visit Kelso for some other fun activities.

 

Raptor Camp

Ages: 8-14
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Swimming, Tie Dye, Boating, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg

Raptor Camp is where campers meet the native birds of prey. Campers will get a hands-on introduction to the birds, and a behind the scenes look at the Mountsberg Raptor Centre. Learn about all of the feathered friends that call our parks home. Visit us online for a breakdown of activities that your camper will explore at Raptor Camp.

 

Mountain Bike Camp

Ages: 8 – 15
Weeks Available:  1-9
Activities: Mountain Biking, Swimming, Tie Dye, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso

Our wildly popular Bike Camp is the perfect way to learn or hone campers’ mountain bike skills. Led by our certified instructors who will guide campers to improve their biking.

 

Climbers Camp

Ages: 8 – 14
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Climbing (Aerial Course, Climb Tower), Archery, Swimming, Low Ropes, Gagaball and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso

Take your week of camp to all new heights! Climbers Camp is for those who love to climb and explore. A portion of each day will be spent on our brand new high ropes course and climbing tower. Other awesome camp activities will be blended in to round out an exciting week.

 

Waterfront Camp

Ages: 10 – 14
Weeks Available: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9
Activities: Boating, Swimming. Tie Dye, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso

Waterfront Camp is the perfect way to become familiar and safe with boating and swimming. It is also an introduction to water safety, in a fun, safe, and highly supervised environment for campers.

 

Athletics Camp

Ages: 10 – 15
Weeks Available: 2, 4, 6, 8
Activities: Boating, Yoga, Trail Runs, Gagaball, Tie Dye, Aerial Course, Spike Ball, Swimming, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Crawford

Is your camper a high energy, aspiring young athlete looking to stay active and meet other kids with competitive interest? Athletics camp blends traditional camp fun with daily outdoor sport and conditioning focused activities. Campers will run, swim and climb, in addition to using our outdoors conditioning equipment!

 

Construction Camp

Ages: 10 – 14
Weeks Available: 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8
Activities: Individual Building Projects, Group Building Projects, Tool Demonstration and Safety Presentation, Swimming, Low Ropes, Boating, Tie Dye, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg

Plan it out, find the tools you need, and build wood projects: all with the guidance and instruction of our staff. Campers will learn how to work smart and safely. Take home projects have included Tool Boxes, Bird Houses and Bee Houses.

Core Senior Programs

Adventure Camp

Ages: 12 – 14
Weeks Available: 1 – 9
Activities: Swimming, Tie Dye, Boating, Indigenous Education, Archery, Low Ropes, Gagaball Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg, Crawford Lake

Adventure Camp has everything that our parks have to offer packed into an action-packed week that is themed for our oldest campers. Campers build leadership and teamwork skills as they explore Kelso, Mountsberg, and Crawford Lake. Climb, hike, boat, you name it, campers will do it!

Girls Camp

Ages: 8 – 14
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Archery, Swimming, Tie Dye, Boating, Indigenous Education, Archery, Camp Games, Gagaball Low Ropes and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg, Crawford Lake

No boys allowed! Made for girls and led by girls, this camp is a great way to learn about the outdoors and develop new skills. Campers will experience all of the best that Kelso, Mountsberg, and Crawford Lake have to offer, and they’ll have loads of fun along the way.

 

Senior Specialty Programs

Farm Camp

Ages: 8 – 12
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Gardening, Animal feeding. Grooming. Swimming, Boating, Tie Dye and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso & Mountsberg

Come get your hands dirty and learn what makes a garden grow. Farm Camp will focus on growing fruits and veggies, as well the effort it takes to care for animals. From honey bees to fruit trees, bunnies to horses, our farm campers do it all. Come foster your green thumb and learn what it takes to keep a farm in operation! Farm Camp operates at Mountsberg. Campers will also visit Kelso for some other fun activities.

 

Raptor Camp

Ages: 8-14
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Swimming, Tie Dye, Boating, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg

Raptor Camp is where campers meet the native birds of prey. Campers will get a hands-on introduction to the birds, and a behind the scenes look at the Mountsberg Raptor Centre. Learn about all of the feathered friends that call our parks home. Visit us online for a breakdown of activities that your camper will explore at Raptor Camp.

 

Mountain Bike Camp

Ages: 8 – 15
Weeks Available:  1-9
Activities: Mountain Biking, Swimming, Tie Dye, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso

Our wildly popular Bike Camp is the perfect way to learn or hone campers’ mountain bike skills. Led by our certified instructors who will guide campers to improve their biking.

 

Climbers Camp

Ages: 8 – 14
Weeks Available: 1-9
Activities: Climbing (Aerial Course, Climb Tower), Archery, Swimming, Low Ropes, Gagaball and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso

Take your week of camp to all new heights! Climbers Camp is for those who love to climb and explore. A portion of each day will be spent on our brand new high ropes course and climbing tower. Other awesome camp activities will be blended in to round out an exciting week.

 

Waterfront Camp

Ages: 10 – 14
Weeks Available: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9
Activities: Boating, Swimming. Tie Dye, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso

Waterfront Camp is the perfect way to become familiar and safe with boating and swimming. It is also an introduction to water safety, in a fun, safe, and highly supervised environment for campers.

 

Athletics Camp

Ages: 10 – 15
Weeks Available: 2, 4, 6, 8
Activities: Boating, Yoga, Trail Runs, Gagaball, Tie Dye, Aerial Course, Spike Ball, Swimming, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Crawford Lake

Is your camper a high energy, aspiring young athlete looking to stay active and meet other kids with competitive interest? Athletics camp blends traditional camp fun with daily outdoor sport and conditioning focused activities. Campers will run, swim, climb in addition to using our outdoors conditioning equipment!

 

Construction Camp

Ages: 10 – 14
Weeks Available: 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8
Activities: Individual Building Projects, Group Building Projects, Tool Demonstration and Safety Presentation, Swimming, Low Ropes, Boating, Tie Dye, Camp Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg

Plan it out, find the tools you need, and build wood projects: all with the guidance and instruction of our staff. Campers will learn how to work smart and safely. Take home projects have included Tool Boxes, Bird Houses and Bee Houses.

 

C.I.T. (Councilor in Training) Camp

Ages: 15+
Weeks Available: 1,2,5
Activities: Counselor Shadowing, Tie Dye, Swimming, Low Ropes, Boating, Team Building Games, and More*
Parks Visited: Kelso, Mountsberg & Crawford Lake

Counselor in Training (C.I.T.) Camp is the first step toward becoming a Ways of the Woods Counselor. Join us for a week of leadership development. Explore all that camp has to offer, and learn what it takes to share these experiences with younger campers. Campers who complete C.I.T. Camp may be invited to then join the Ways of the Woods team as a volunteer through the summer.

2023 Rates, Dates, and Program Availability

 

Camp Name Ages Early Bird
(March 22 – April 30)
Pre-Season
(May 1 – June 29)
In-Season
(June 30 onwards)
Kinder WOW Ages 4-5 $329 $362 $398
Wee WOW Ages 6-8 $329 $362 $398
Wee Farm & Flight Ages 6-8 $339 $373 $410
Explorer Camp Ages 8-12 $319 $351 $386
Adventure Camp Ages 12-15 $319 $351 $386
Mountain Bike Camp- Trail Stewards Ages 12-15 $339 $373 $410
Girls Camp Ages 8-14 $319 $351 $386
Farm Camp Ages 8-12 $339 $373 $410
Raptor Camp Ages 8-14 $339 $373 $410
Mountain Bike Camp Ages 8-15 $339 $373 $410
Climbers Camp Ages 8-14 $339 $373 $410
Waterfront Camp Ages 10-14 $329 $362 $398
Athletics Camp Ages 10-15 $329 $362 $398
Construction Camp Ages 10-14 $339 $373 $410
C.I.T (Counselor in Training) Age 15 $219 $241 $265

*Please note that your child must be the specified age on the first day of the camp program.

 

Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9
Camp Name Ages July
3-7
July
10-14
July
17-21
July
24-28
July 31 – August 4 August
7-11
August
14-18
August
21-25
August 28-September 1
Kinder WOW Ages 4-5
Wee WOW Ages 6-8
Wee Farm & Flight Ages 6-8
Explorer Camp Ages 8-12
Adventure Camp Ages 12-15
Mountain Bike Camp – Trail Stewards Ages 12-15
Girls Camp Ages 8-14
Farm Camp Ages 8-12
Raptor Camp Ages 8-14
Mountain Bike Camp Ages 8-15
Climbers Camp Ages 8-14
Waterfront Camp Ages 10-14
Athletics Camp Ages 10-15
Construction Camp Ages 10-14
C.I.T (Counselor in Training) Age 15

*Availability subject to change. Please note that your child must be the specified age on the first day of the camp program.

Transportation Options

 

Ways of the Woods Busing

Ways of the Woods is excited to offer free transportation daily to and from its camps! Stops for each route are listed below. You will be able to select which stop your camper would like to use at registration. Your camper has a reserved seat on a specific bus for the week, and unfortunately, for logistical and safety reasons we cannot accommodate campers riding different buses on different days.

(Please note that bus pick-up and drop-off times will be posted two weeks before your week of camp starts. They will be emailed to you in your welcome letter. Also, times could change slightly from day-to-day.)

Drop Off/Pick-Up (Regular Hours)

Parents or Guardians have the option to drop off their camper(s) starting at 8:45AM at Kelso, and pick up camper between 4:00PM and 4:15PM instead of utilizing Ways of the Woods Transportation.

**Please note that the posted arrival times are based on GPS estimated mapping and do not account for traffic on the way to and from camp

Stop Bus Number Localisation Morning Arrival Time Afternoon Arrival Time
Stop A Bus 1 Pineland Elementary School – 5121 Meadowhill Rd, Burlington 8:09 AM 5:16-5:21 PM
Stop B Bus 1 Orchard Park Public School – 5151 Dryden Avenue, Burlington 8:27 AM 4:58-5:03 PM
Stop C Bus 2 MM Robinson High School – 2425 Upper Middle Rd, Burlington 8:24 AM 4:57-5:02 PM
Stop D Bus 2 Assumption Catholic Secondary School – 3230 Woodward Ave., Burlington 8:08 AM 5:12-5:17 PM
Stop E Bus 3 Eastview Public School – 2266 Hixon Street, Oakville – as of August 7, 2023 this route changes to St. Dominic’s Catholic Elementary School 2405 Rebecca St, Oakville ON L6L2B1 8:13 AM 5:12-5:17 PM
Stop F Bus 3 Glen Abbey Rec Centre – 1415 Third Line, Oakville 8:28 AM 4:57-5:02 PM
Stop G Bus 4 Joshua Creek Public School – 1450 Arrowhead Road, Oakville 8:12 AM 5:13-5:18 PM
Stop H Bus 4 Munns Public School – 1511 Sixth Line, Oakville 8:26 AM 4:59-5:04 PM
Stop I Bus 5 Waterdown Memorial Park – 200 Hamilton St N., Waterdown 8:09 AM 5:11-5:23 PM
Stop J Bus 5 Mount Nemo Conservation Area  – 5317 Guelph Line, Burlington 8:27 AM 4:57-5:09 PM
Stop K Bus 5 Lumen Christi Catholic Elementary School – 841 Savoline Blvd. Milton (formerly Escarpment View Public School) 8:44 AM 4:40-4:45 PM
Stop L Bus 6 Erin Mills United Church- 3010 The Collegeway, Mississauga 8:09 AM 5:16-5:23 PM
Stop M Bus 6 Cornerstone Community Church- 3020 Vanderbilt Rd, Mississauga 8:29 AM 4:56-5:01 PM
Stop N Bus 7 Hawthorne Village Elementary School – 850 Bennett Boulevard, Milton 8:15 AM 5:09-5:14 PM
Stop O Bus 7 Milton Memorial Arena – 77 Thompson Rd S, Milton 8:27 AM 4:58-5:04 PM
Stop P Bus 7 John Tonelli Sports Centre – 217 Laurier Ave, Milton (formerly Milton District High School) 8:40 AM 4:45-4:50 PM
Stop Q Bus 8 St Catharines Elementary School – 407 Barber Dr, Georgetown 8:04 AM 5:19-5:24 PM
Stop R Bus 8 Christ the King Catholic Secondary School – 161 Guelph St, Georgetown 8:16 AM 5:07-5:12 PM
Stop S Bus 8 Acton Arena – 415 Queen St E, Acton 8:34 AM 4:50-4:55 PM
Stop T Bus 9 Nelson High School – 4181 New Street, Burlington 8:13 AM 5:10-5:15 PM
Stop U Bus 9** Haber Rec Centre – 3040 Tim Dobbie Dr, Burlington 8:33 AM 4:52-4:57 PM

*In the event you miss you bus stop time, you may use any other stop on the same bus number. Indicating which bus stop you intend to use when you register helps our staff run attendance at bus stops.

** Please note that Bus 9 does NOT run on weeks 1, 5, and 9 of camp.

Bus Locations Map

Drop Off/Pick-Up (Regular Hours)

Parents or Guardians have the option to drop off their camper(s) starting at 8:45AM at Kelso, and pick up camper between 4:00PM and 4:15PM instead of utilizing Ways of the Woods Transportation.

 

After Care

After care is available as an add-on until 5:00PM. Please note after care is only available for pick-up from Kelso Conservation Area. After Care is offered for a flat rate of $40 for the week.

Camp Life

Learn what makes life at Ways of the Woods Summer Day Camp awesome. All parents and registrants will be notified of exactly what your campers should bring to camp before their session

Below you’ll find what your campers need to bring to camp:

  • Water bottle
  • Hat
  • Lunch/snacks
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Beach gear (swimming suit and towel)
  • Any medications

  • Mountain bike, recently tuned up
  • Bike helmet
  • Riding gloves
  • Water bottle/hydration pack
  • Medications

Contact WOW

5324 Kelso Road
Milton, ON
L9T 2X7

Email: vslead@hrca.on.ca
Tel: (905) 878-5011 ext.1256

2259 Milburough Line,
Campbellville,ON
L0P 1B0

Email: vslead@hrca.on.ca

Ways of the Woods Camps are brought to you by the same great team who provide Glen Eden ski and snowboard lesson programs.

collage of various areas in the parks including a lake, a cliff and a cabin

Ways of the Woods embraces all that defines the great outdoors.

Our summer camps operate within Kelso and Mountsberg Conservation Areas. Each camp location sits on a unique piece of natural property located along the Niagara Escarpment. Our parks are a natural playground with streams, lakes and ponds; rolling hills, rocky escarpment lines, and gorgeous wooded areas.

Ways of the Woods camps provide today’s kids with access to spectacular outdoor settings, and our supervision is truly second to none. Since Ways of the Woods is a Conservation Halton program, our campers also have access to all of the facilities and highly trained staff that our parks have to offer.

Ways of the Woods is a proud accredited Member of the Ontario Camps Association.

Ontario Camps Association Logo

Questions fréquemment posées

Is registration for 2023 camps open yet?

Not yet, but soon! Please sign up for our e-mail list to be notified when camp registration opens for 2023.


What is the best camp for my child?

Ways of the Woods camps are broken out into offerings that target age, and interest groups. We recommend you first consider your child’s age, and then look to see which programs may be of most interest to them.


How old does my child need to be to attend camp?

Please note that your child must be the specified age on the first day of the camp program. Ways of the Woods offers camps for children as young as 4 (kinder), and as old as 15 (C.I.T).


What activities will my camper be participating in each day?

Each week may be slightly different based on weather, age, energy level, interest, and camp program etc. We’ve provided a list of the major activities available at each park. Some activities are age specific. We suggest that you pack your camper with what they would need so they are prepared for any of the activities listed at their camp location.

What are the Ways of the Woods Camp hours?

Camp runs Lundi through Vendredi (including holiday weeks).  Programmed time starts daily at 9:00 am, and wraps up at 4:00 pm.


I need to pick up my camper early, what should I do?

Please contact our WOW team by phone at (905)878-5011 ext 1256 so we can confirm the details with you.


I need to pick my camper up after regular camp hours, what should I do?

After Care is available until 5:00 pm Lundi-Vendredi at Kelso. Please note after care only is available from the Kelso Conservation Area and not on any of the bus routes.


I have decided to drop my child off at camp. Where do I drop them off each day?

All camps use Kelso as the hub.  Please drop your child at Kelso by 8:50am.

I’m having issues figuring out how to register.

Step 1: Select the week of camp and the camp program you are seeking.

  • You will also be able to select your transportation options at this time. If you do not know which bus you may want, please refer to transportation information above
  • Parents wishing to drive their camper(s) or carpool with other families should select “Drop off & Pick Up at Kelso”
  • Add additional Weeks: If you wish to add additional weeks of camps for your first camper, repeat Step 1

Step 2: Add your camper & Parent / guardian info

  • Camper Name and Date Of Birth
  • Parent & Guardian contact info
  • An Emergency Contact
  • Any other adults you wish to permit to perform pick ups at the bus or Kelso.
    Swimming Ability, and Biking Ability if you are signing up for Bike Camp (otherwise select Not Applicable)
  • Any known medical or allergy information

Step 3: Once you have selected your camps and provided the needed details, you will proceed to check out.

  • Please review your multiple Camper Registration
  • Enter payment information
  • Check out; you should receive a confirmation e-mail following your transaction

Repeat Steps 1, 2, 3 as required.

Please contact us at (905)878-5011 if further assistance is required.

Does your camp provide busing?

Yes, busing is included! We offer stops in Waterdown, Mississauga, Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Acton and Georgetown.


What time do buses pick up and drop off campers?

Visit our Busing Schedule page for all of the details. We recommend that parents be at the stop 10 minutes prior to busses arriving.


I have missed my bus, what should I do?

If you can safely arrive at another pick-up location on the same route, you may do so. Otherwise, drop your child off at Kelso by 8:50am. View transportation section above for stop locations.  If you are unable to make it to Kelso on schedule please call our WOW team at 905-878-5011 x 1256


Can I make changes to our bus route or stop?

Your camper is booked on their bus for the duration of the week and must ride the same bus each day.

If you would like to pick them up or drop them off at a different stop along the same route we can easily accommodate this. Simply show up at your desired stop at the designated time. Due to bus capacity limitations, and for the safety and security of all of our campers we CANNOT accommodate changes in routes or different routes for different days.

If you are unable to make your stop or prefer to drop off or pick up your camper on a particular day we can accommodate this at Kelso but YOU MUST contact us at 905-878-5011 x1256 to confirm the details.

Prior to your camp starting (before Jeudi at noon the week prior to your camp) we may be able to accommodate changes to your route based on availability.  Please call 905-878-5011 x1256


It is more convenient for me to drop my child off at camp, is this possible?

Yes, campers can be dropped off at the Kelso Visitor Centre between 8:45 and 9:00 am.  You will need to pick your camper up at Kelso by 4:00 pm. After care is available at Kelso until 5pm if needed (additional fee)


Can I provide permission for my camper to walk home from the bus unsupervised?

If you did not already indicate this when you registered please contact us at 905-878-5011 x1256 so that we can update your camper profile and alert the bus monitors.


I am unavailable to pick up my child and need to send someone else, what do I do?

Please list ALL contacts with first/last names and contact info in the area provided on our registration site. If your camper needs to picked up by someone other than the listed primary or secondary contacts approved for pick up on their file please contact us at 905-878-5011 x1256.

What sort of supervision will be provided while my child is at camp?

Ways of the Woods has an outstanding team of camp staff.  Our counselors work in teams, a senior counsellor with greater experience and certification will typically work with any junior counselor we hire.  This ensures that every group has a great camper to staff ratio, and that our staff are always in a setting where they can continue to learn to be the best they can be!


What is the supervision ratio at camp?

Ways of the Woods strives to maintain camper ratios for our staff that allow our counselors to work as closely as possible with your camper.  Our Primary programs are offered at an 8:1 ratio for ages 6-8 and 6:1 ratio for ages 4-5. Our Junior Camps are offered at a 10:1 ratio.  Our Senior Camps are offered at varying ratios, but are typically a 10:1.


How can I become staff with Ways of the Woods?

Ways of the Woods hires exceptional young people who are passionate about providing a truly awesome summer camp experience to our campers.  Staff must be at least 16 years of age (jr counselor). We offer a variety of positions based on experience and certifications. View summer camp job postings.


I would like to Volunteer at Camp, is this possible?

Ways of the Woods offers a great transitional approach from being a camper, to eventually working at Camp. Our Counselor in Training Camp (C.I.T) is offered twice per summer and is a required step for anyone wishing to volunteer at camp. Once you have attended a C.I.T camp, you may return as a C.I.T for any portion of the remainder of the summer in a volunteer capacity.

My Child has allergies; can you accommodate them at camp?

Ways of the Woods is an active, outdoor camp.  We will unavoidably come in contact with a variety of animals, grasses, and plants.  Providing your child’s allergy does not limit them from coming into contact with these outdoor settings, we will be happy to work with them this summer.


Is Ways of the Woods a Peanut Free camp?

Though Ways of the Woods is happy to try and accommodate any camper with allergies, we are not able to list ourselves as a peanut free camp.  Our outdoor settings are enjoyed by thousands of other individuals through the year, and our other campers do bring bag lunches, trace amounts of allergens may be present at a variety of locations.


My camper is taking medication while at camp, what information does the camp staff require?

When registering, we ask that you describe any specific medical concerns you or your camper may have. This would include information pertaining to medication routines, current injuries, allergies, etc.


I forgot to give you some details or the medical information has changed since we registered, what do I do?

Contact us at 905-878-5011 x1256 so that we can update your camp reservation.

My Camper is not a swimmer. Can they avoid Swimming as an activity?

Swimming is one of our Camp’s most popular activities.  Our Waterfront at Kelso is fully lifeguarded, and is located at a sand beach with graduated depth markers.  Non swimmers are required to wear a PFD at all times.  Our staff will work with non swimmers to introduce them to the water and ensure they are closely supervised while at the beach. In addition to the camp staff, the Kelso Beach is overseen by lifeguards that are specifically assigned to camps. If you are certain that you do not wish your camper to swim, you may indicate that in the additional notes section during registration, however they will be required to visit the beach with their group while the other campers swim.


What do each of the swim levels mean in registration?

Our camp staff will have access to notes from your registration including a camper’s swim level so they know what level of PFD and support is required at the beach. The ability levels should be interpreted as below:

  • Non-swimmer – my camper does not know how to swim and should have a PFD at all times on the beach
  • PFD Required – my camper has some experience swimming, but they should always have a PFD on in the water
  • PFD Not Required – my camper is a comfortable swimmer and does NOT require a PFD while at the beach and in the water. I acknowledge that my camper will still have to wear a PFD while using any of the boats.

Is your Boating activity supervised?

Boating is done at Kelso where we have our Lifeguard staff on duty, as well as first aiders and rescue boats at our Boat Rental beach. All participants wear proper pfd’s while on the water, and our camp staff join them on the water to supervise more closely.  Campers boat in groups and carry all the require small pleasure craft emergency supplies they may need.  The Kelso reservoir is limited in size and has no water way exits, so campers cannot leave the supervised area.

How strong a biker does my child need to be for bike camp?

The Ways of the Woods bike camp is intended for campers with some existing off pavement bike experience. We strongly recommend that campers be comfortable riding their bike on grass, gravel, and on bike trails.  Campers will build skills pertaining to riding up and downhill, as well as navigating trail features like rock, roots, bridges, etc.  This is NOT a camp for new riders, but being an expert is most definitely not a requirement.


What do each of the bike levels mean in registration?

If registering for one of our Bike camps, we also collect your campers bike level so that they can be matched with other campers of similar ability and comfort levels. The ability levels should be interpreted as below:

  • Beginner – My camper can ride a bike comfortably on pavement, grass and gravel roads. They have limited experience with biking on a dedicated trail.
  • Intermediate – My camper has some experience biking on mountain bike trail networks. They are able to ride with some speed comfortably.
  • Advanced – My camper is an experienced mountain biker. They are able to ride all the trails at Kelso with speed and comfortability.

What type of bike do I need for bike camp?

We ask that campers be riding at minimum a 24” wheel bike with both front and rear handlebar actuated brakes.  Coaster brakes (backpedal / skid brake) will not be sufficient for this camp.


What other equipment will I require for Bike Camp?

A proper bike helmet, riding gloves and some way to carry water on the trail (water bottle, hydration back) are the only required equipment. Your camper will have an area to leave their lunch and belongings while on trail, so we also recommend parents set up campers to be able to take only what they need on the trail separate from the rest of their belongings. Other equipment you may appreciate would be shin / knee guards, and spare tube to fit your wheel size.


Can I leave my bike at Camp for the week?

Yes, campers in Bike Camp can leave their bike at camp during their week of camp.  It will be locked up overnight, so there will be no access to the bikes once camp hours are over. All bikes MUST be picked up on Vendredi afternoon by 5:30 pm.


How should I get my child’s bike to camp?

We recommend that campers in bike camp get a ride to camp on Lundi morning with their parent or guardian. They may ride the bus home that day, as their bike can stay on site.  Similarly parents will want to pick their child up on the final day of camp in order to transport their bike home.

How is behaviour dealt with at camp?

Ways of the Woods Camp Staff recognize that kids will be kids. This is to imply that Summer Camp is a place to play, explore, and learn. Our staff work hard each week to ensure campers understand what behavior is acceptable at camp and what is not. These expectations are introduced to campers at the start of camp, and the culture of respect for everyone and everything at camp is fostered from that point forward. Our behavioral policy is not intended to be restrictive or prescriptive in how each camper is dealt with at camp. Staff will always use their best judgement and always work with their supervisors to ensure that everyone is able to have fun at camp. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.


How is bullying dealt with at Camp?

Bullying is not tolerated within any Ways of the Woods Camp. Behaviour that is deemed to be bullying will result in immediate contact being made with the campers guardians.  Campers who bully may need to leave camp for the day or week.


If my camper is asked to leave camp, do I receive refund or credit?

No. Campers who lose their privilege to be at camp due to behaviour are not entitled to refund. Their spot in camp was held at registration and we are unable to fill space in camp mid week.

What is your Refund policy?

  • All refund requests and changes to registration must be received 14 days prior to the start of the registered camp. A $25 admin fee applies
  • We do not offer refunds less than two (2) weeks before the first day of camp.
  • We do not offer refunds for days missed.
  • Camps are not transferrable.
  • Refunds must go back to the card used for the original transaction.

I have had a change in schedule and need to change my camper’s registration. What can I do?

As per our refund policy, exchanges are only possible with more than 14 days notice from the start of their scheduled camp. Providing you have realized the need to change camps before that time, you may transfer your registration to another week and only pay an administrative fee of $25.

Camp Policies

  • Conservation Halton reserves the right to remove a camper from the program if warranted for behavior or camp safety concerns. Refunds in this situation will be issued at the camps’ discretion and are not guaranteed.
  • Conservation Halton reserves the right to cancel camp streams if registration does not meet our minimum registration numbers.
  • Each campers’ personal belongings are their responsibility. Camp Staff will assist campers in remembering to pack up their belongings, but cannot be held responsible for lost items. A lost & found pick-up area is available at the end of the day and each week at camp.
  • The birthdate of the camper must match the camp birthdate requirement on the first day of camp.
  • Camp fees are HST exempt (excluding CIT Camp) and your receipt can be used towards childcare expenses or the children’s fitness tax credit. Transportation and Extended Care services are subject to HST.

  • All refund requests and changes to registration must be received 14 days prior to the start of the registered camp. A $25.00 admin fee applies
  • No refunds less than two (2) weeks before the first day of camp.
  • No refunds for days missed.
  • Refunds must go back to the card used for the original transaction.

Ways of the Woods puts great pride in offering a positive and memorable experience for all of its campers.  In situations where campers are having difficulty contributing to this positive experience, our staff follow a well-planned behavioural policy.  The policy focuses on helping our campers learn from mistakes and discover how to best contribute with their group.  Behaviour that risks safety or injury of any camper is taken quite seriously. Campers who are having a difficult time with behaviour may find themselves removed from their group, dealing with their guardians and camp staff, or in some situations may find themselves being asked to leave camp.  In any case, guardians will always be consulted and kept aware of how their children are doing at camp.


Bullying

Bullying is not tolerated within any Ways of the Woods Camp. Behaviour that is deemed to be bullying will result in immediate contact being made with the campers guardians.  Campers who bully may need to leave camp for the day or week.


Dealing with Behaviour

Ways of the Woods Camp Staff recognize that kids will be kids. This is to imply that Summer Camp is a place to play, explore, and learn. Our staff work hard each week to ensure campers understand what behavior is acceptable at camp and what is not. These expectations are introduced to campers at the start of camp, and the culture of respect for everyone and everything at camp is fostered from that point forward. Our behavioral policy is not intended to be restrictive or prescriptive in how each camper is dealt with at camp. Staff will always use their best judgement and always work with their supervisors to ensure that everyone is able to have fun at camp. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.