Keen to escape the city and take in the great outdoors? This 3-day backcountry camping and canoeing workshop in Muskoka is the perfect opportunity. Led by experienced guides, you will learn essential skills like navigation, gear selection, and campsite setup. With hands-on paddling sessions and ample exploration time, it’s an ideal chance to build confidence for outdoor adventures. But the limited spots mean you’ll need to act fast if you want to secure your place.
Key Points
- A 3-day backcountry camping and canoeing workshop in Muskoka, Ontario, focusing on practical skills like packing, meal preparation, gear selection, and navigation.
- Experienced outdoor professionals provide theoretical and hands-on lessons, with activities like paddling, portaging, and campfire cooking.
- Comprehensive curriculum covers essential skills for safe and enjoyable backcountry adventures, including bear safety considerations.
- Limited to 12 participants, with options for additional nights and student discounts available.
- Includes all camping gear, canoes, campsites, and meals, with a focus on hands-on learning and exploration throughout the weekend.
Workshop Overview
This 3-day backcountry camping and canoeing workshop takes place at the McCrae Lake Conservation Reserve in Muskoka.
Priced from $451.97 per person, the workshop is limited to 12 participants and focused on practical skills like packing, meal preparation, gear selection, campsite setup, paddling, and navigation.
Guides are experienced outdoor professionals who’ll teach both theoretical and hands-on lessons.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
The workshop isn’t suitable for children under 18, but student discounts are offered.
Itinerary Highlights
The itinerary for the 3-day backcountry camping and canoeing workshop begins on Friday with an optional meet and greet, followed by paddling into the campsite, dinner, and a campfire.
Saturday focuses on practical paddling and portage sessions, exploration, dinner, and another campfire.
On Sunday, participants pack up camp, with an optional portage into Georgian Bay or further exploration of McCrae Lake, before returning to the parking lot.
For those interested, the workshop offers an additional night’s stay with guides or solo at a neighboring site on Monday.
Skills and Knowledge Taught
The workshop teaches participants a variety of essential skills and knowledge for backcountry camping. Attendees learn how to efficiently pack for a trip, prepare nutritious meals, and select the right camping gear. They also gain insights into campsite setup techniques, including bear safety considerations. On top of that, the workshop covers fundamental paddling and portaging skills, as well as optional hiking skills and navigation.
| Skills Taught | Knowledge Imparted |
| — | — |
| Packing | Gear Selection |
| Food Preparation | Campsite Setup |
| Paddling | Navigation |
This comprehensive curriculum equips participants with the necessary expertise to embark on safe and enjoyable backcountry adventures.
Additional Information
Experienced professionals with a passion for outdoor education guide the workshops.
The workshops are conveniently located 45 minutes north of Barrie, near Highway 400, making them accessible. Student discounts are available for those who qualify.
Detailed biographies of the guides are available on the StepItUpAdventures.ca website. The workshops aren’t suitable for children under 18 years old.
For more information on availability and to reserve a spot, visitors are encouraged to check the website.
Registration includes all camping gear, canoes, campsites, and meals, providing a hassle-free backcountry experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s Included
The workshops include all the necessary camping gear, canoes, and campsites, ensuring a hassle-free backcountry experience.
Participants will enjoy delicious meals throughout the trip, including:
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2 hearty breakfasts
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3 satisfying lunches
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2 wholesome dinners
Guides’ biographies are available on the Step It Up Adventures website, providing insight into their expertise and passion for outdoor education.
With these all-inclusive workshops, adventurers can focus on learning new skills and exploring the stunning Muskoka wilderness.
What to Bring
Participants should bring a variety of personal items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable backcountry experience. This includes clothing, toiletries, a pillow, towel, water bottle, and closed-toe shoes.
Comfortable running or hiking shoes are recommended. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Participants are advised to dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable in the outdoors. Organizers emphasize the importance of being prepared by bringing the necessary items, as the workshop takes place in a remote backcountry setting.
Not Suitable For
Children under 18 years aren’t suitable for this backcountry camping workshop. The challenging environment, rugged terrain, and potential risks require participants to be physically fit, self-sufficient, and mature enough to follow safety protocols.
This backcountry camping workshop is not suitable for children under 18 due to the challenging environment and safety requirements.
This workshop is best suited for:
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Experienced outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more immersive adventure
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Those comfortable with basic camping skills and eager to level up their wilderness expertise
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Individuals craving an intimate, small-group experience in Muskoka’s breathtaking natural landscapes
The guides prioritize the group’s wellbeing, but can’t provide the level of supervision required for younger participants.
Contact Information
Prospective participants can visit stepitupadventures.ca for more details and to check availability for the Backcountry Camping Workshop. The website provides comprehensive information about the event, including a contact form for inquiries. Plus, interested you can reach out to the organizers via the following channels:
| Method | Contact |
| — | — |
| Phone | 123-456-7890 |
| Email | [email protected] |
| Address | 123 Adventure Lane, Muskoka, ON A1B 2C3 |
Whether you have questions about the itinerary, gear requirements, or any other aspect of the workshop, the team at Step It Up Adventures is ready to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?
Yes, participants can bring their own camping gear. However, all necessary equipment like canoes and group gear are provided as part of the workshop. Bringing personal gear can be more convenient for some participants.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?
The workshop is not suitable for children under 18 years old. The minimum age requirement is 18 years, as the activities and environment may not be appropriate or safe for younger participants.
Are There Options for Dietary Restrictions?
The workshop offers accommodations for dietary restrictions. Participants can inform the organizers of any specific dietary needs, and the guides will work to provide appropriate meal options during the trip.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Workshop?
The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for participants’ plans and ensures the workshop is accessible to those who may need to change their schedules.
Can I Arrive Early or Stay Late at the Campsite?
Participants can arrive early or stay late at the campsite for an additional fee. The workshop offers an optional Monday night stay with guides or solo at a neighboring site for those who wish to extend their trip.
The Sum Up
The "Learn to Backcountry Camp/Canoe Muskoka – Tripping Workshop" offers a comprehensive 3-day experience to develop essential outdoor skills. Guided by experienced professionals, you will learn practical techniques for packing, meal preparation, gear selection, campsite setup, and navigation. With hands-on paddling sessions and safety considerations, this workshop is an ideal way to deepen one’s backcountry knowledge and prepare for future adventures.
You can check availability for your dates here: