Intro to Canoe Camping

Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on our website.

If you've been curious about backcountry canoe camping but unsure where to start, this is a solid entry point.

We’ll be heading into the iconic Algonquin Park for an easy canoe camping adventure on Joe Lake. It’s a short paddle in, about 7km total, with just one 240m portage along the way. The route offers a good intro to how we carry gear between lakes at a steady, safe and manageable pace.

We'll launch from Canoe Lake and follow a calm route past narrow channels and rocky shorelines typical of the Canadian Shield. Weather conditions can change quickly, so we’ll pack accordingly and help you plan ahead. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, so keep your eyes peeled for turtles, beavers, and the occasional moose if we’re lucky.

Once we reach camp, you can settle in and do what feels right. Swim, read, hang out with the group, or practice campsite basics like setting up a tarp or hanging food safely.

This is a chance to experience the magic of the backcountry - falling asleep to the sounds of loons, your tent illuminated by the milky way and learning what you need to know without being thrown in the deep end.

What's included

• Professional, certified guides
• Canoes along with all safety equipment
• ‍All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits
• ‍Tents

Sleeping bags and sleeping pads can be rented from WU for a small fee.

Highlights
Pristine Backcountry - Escape the crowded city and enter into the serenity of the backcountry.
Learn to Portage - An essential skill for conquering the Ontario backcountry, learn how to portage with confidence from our expert guides.
Possible Wildlife Spotting - Bears, moose, beavers, eagles and loons are just some of the creatures that call this area home. You'll have a chance to spot some from a safe distance for a magical encounter.

Event cost: $349+HST - optional transport available.
Register here.

About Wilderness Union
Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people.

Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad.

Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming!

Learn more at our website www.wildernessunion.com