About Rugged Adventures
in the Wild
RAW was formed with the vision of providing an affordable and authentic summer camp experience that emphasizes grit and adventure. As an idea born at Camp Can-Aqua, our team of outdoor educators wanted to create a program solely based around the most impactful moments of campers' summer camp experiences. At that point, we realized something very important; the most impactful moments happened on outdoor camping and wilderness trips. In 2020, the world became more challenging and we knew it was important for kids to spend more time connecting with others as well as the great outdoors.
This is how RAW was born.
Our camp is built on the values of inspiring youth through challenging outdoor, encouraging them to embrace responsible risk-taking while fostering personal growth. We believe that through socialization and shared experiences in nature, campers can develop a strong sense of identity and resilience.
At RAW, our program is designed to foster deep social bonds among campers through shared challenges and activities in the great outdoors. By working together in tasks like setting up tents, cooking meals over a campfire, or navigating our vast lake system, children learn the value of teamwork, communication, and trust. Our commitment to a technology-free environment encourages campers to engage with another face-to-face, genuine connections and helping them develop vital social skills.
Studies show that spending time in nature can significantly enhance mental well-being, reduce stress, improve focus. Immersed in the wild, campers experience the calming effects of natural surroundings, can lead to increased creativity and emotional resilience. By embracing the outdoors and disconnecting from, children at RAW build lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories that contribute to their personal growth and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions that need answering? We've got you covered! Take a look at some of our most frequently asked questions below. If you've still got questions, feel free to email us using our contact form!
How does Dropoff & Pickup work?
Campers are dropped off at our headquarters at Camp Can-Aqua - 503 Beaver Lake Drive Cardiff Ontario, (just 2 and a half hours north east of Toronto) where campers will be checked in, sorted and bussed offsite to our RAW location. While our site varies from summer to summer, our campsite village is located within 20 minutes of Can-Aqua through use of designated crown land wilderness in the stunning Haliburton Highlands. At the end of the session, campers will be picked up, once again at Can-Aqua.
Who are the staff taking care of my child?
The Camp Davern staff team consist of hard working, passionate role models who are committed to ensuring each camper has the opportunity to realize and appreciate the incredible opportunities offered at summer camp. Proud of the child centred staff culture, the team creates a safe and positive environment for kids to learn and thrive in. As a bonus, Davern brings staff in to work from around the globe, offering cultural diversity and a truly international experience. All staff take part in a week long staff training each year. As minimum qualifications, staff are required to hold First Aid and CPR. Every staff member at camp undergo standard criminal and background checks.
How does showering and bathrooms work?
At RAW, we're proud to support an experience that is 100% in touch with nature and the environment. Campers are invited to back biodegradable soaps and shampoos for lake showers. At RAW, we lake shower every other day. It's the best way to stay clean, refreshed and cool during hot summer days!
Our KYBOS (also known as treasure chests and outhouses) are our toilets. Our KYBOS are brand new, camper-friendly and clean, secluded spaces for campers to use the restroom. It's pleasant and clean, yet rugged!
What if my child gets homesick?
If your child is homesick during their stay, our first focus will be to talk about it. Homesickness is a normal thing that all kids will feel at different times. Tips to managing your campers anxiety are sent out in our spring parent information package to help you best prepare your child for being away from home.
Where are you located?
Our headquarters are based out of Camp Can-Aqua in Cardiff Ontario, just about 2.5 hours from Toronto and Ottawa. This is where our camper's journeys start and finish but the official RAW site is about a 20 minute drive in to the stunning lakes of the Haliburton highlands. Our crown land site is like a small village with its own sleeping quarters, outdoor dining space, activity spaces, segregated waterfront and outhouse area. Our site has been meticulously built up, prepared by our amazing team. All it needs now is YOU!
How can I get in contact with my child during camp?
You are able to connect with camp any time for general updates. To connect with your child during this experience we encourage you to send an email.
We also offer mid-session update calls. Upon registration, you can sign up for this option and our team will give you a call detailing your child's week midway into their camp session.
What if my child gets homesick?
If your child is homesick during their stay, our first focus will be to talk about it. Homesickness is a normal thing that all kids will feel at different times. Tips to managing your campers anxiety are sent out in our spring parent information package to help you best prepare your child for being away from home.
How are campers sorted and how can I request friends to stay together?
Campers are assigned to tents based on gender and age – typically grade level, based on the camper demographics of the particular week. While not guaranteed, we work diligently to meet all cabin mate requests to ensure kids are able to experience tent life with their friends. *Cabin requests must be mutual and align with age and gender.
When filling out our registration form, simply put the names of your child’s tent mate requests onto the form and be sure kids are within 3 years apart.
Meet our Team
Contact
503 Beaver Lake Drive
Cardiff Ontario K0L1M0
613-339-2969
Mon - Fri
8:00 am – 8:00 pm