Summer Day Camp and programs for Adventurous Kids & Youth
- Abbey Gardens
- Apr 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 4
As summer draws near, the allure of the great outdoors becomes hard to resist. This year, we warmly invite your children to set off on a thrilling adventure through nature at our engaging summer day camp. Crafted for curious minds and playful spirits, this camp offers an exciting mix of exploration, learning, and fun!
Li'l Buds Nature Play
A fun outdoor program for children to explore their natural world through themed stories, walks, activities, hands-on discovery, and crafts. Lil’ Buds is a 1 ½ hour program that runs weekly (10am-11:30am) on Thursdays in July and August. Programs take place outdoors and are suitable for children (ages 2-5) and their guardian. Join us for one program or all! Every program has a different book and set of activities, even if it shares a theme! Cost is $18 per child…accompanying grown-ups free! If a date doesn’t appear in the drop-down menu, it is sold out. Email irene@abbeygardens.ca to be added to our waitlist.
Summer Camp
Every day will introduce children to the beauty and secrets of the outdoors. From daily hikes to hands-on eco-friendly activities, your child will enjoy free exploration in expansive green spaces. They'll walk away with cherished memories and valuable knowledge about the environment. Last year, campers reported a 90% satisfaction rate, highlighting the joy and learning they experienced.
Parents, please pack snacks and a hearty lunch for your child. We will add to the enjoyment by providing two additional snacks and a lunch break each camp day. Sharing meals outdoors fosters a sense of community, enhancing this vibrant experience.
Our camp operates daily from 9:30 AM to 4 PM. For only $295 per child for the week—or a special four-day option for $236—your child can dive into this nature-centric program. The cost includes all activities, dedicated supervision, and the unforgettable experiences that await.
A highlight of our program is the chance for your child to connect with our incredible Ojibwe Horses. While riding is not allowed, children will learn all about these majestic animals during a special Pony-themed camp morning. Each child will have the chance to ask questions, interact safely, and enrich their understanding of wildlife.
For parents of young adventurers, children turning 7 in 2025 are welcome to join as long as their parents feel they can thrive in a group setting. If you have any concerns, please reach out to irene@abbeygardens.ca to discuss their suitability.
The camp will run over four weeks: July 7-11, July 21-25, August 5-8 (4-day camp), and August 18-22. Each week features similar themes and activities, and many campers return for multiple weeks because they simply can’t get enough of this outdoor adventure!
To secure a spot for your child, we require that all participants commit to either the full 5-day or 4-day program. Payment is due at registration, which ensures you reserve your child’s place in this eagerly awaited camp.
Your child's safety is our top priority. Since all activities will take place outdoors, our staff will monitor the weather closely for potential risks such as extreme heat, thunderstorms, or heavy rain. If conditions necessitate a cancellation of programming, we will inform parents or guardians at least 1 to 1.5 hours before drop-off. Please ensure your contact information is current, as cancellations will be communicated only to the primary contact listed.
This summer, let your child explore the wonders of nature and engage with the world beyond their usual surroundings. Our summer day camp is designed not just to entertain but also to educate, inspire, and deepen their appreciation for the great outdoors.
With both structured and spontaneous experiences, kids will learn about local wildlife, plant life, and the importance of teamwork through fun activities and social interactions with peers. Every day is an adventure just waiting to unfold!
By enrolling your child in our summer day camp, you’re not just giving them fun-filled days but also an opportunity to develop a lasting love for nature. With fresh air, sunshine, and new friendships, your child is bound for an unforgettable summer.
Spaces are limited, so make sure to reserve your spot today!
For any inquiries, please reach out to irene@abbeygardens.ca. We eagerly anticipate welcoming your child to the wonderful adventures of nature this summer!
Leaders in Training (LIT) Program
Experience the fun of camp while learning leadership skills! Work alongside an experienced educator to deliver camp programs this season! LITs practice their skills by leading games, crafts and activities and shadowing education staff . A hands-on opportunity to cultivate self-awareness, communication and cooperation skills all while getting community service hours.
What makes our Leaders in Training program so unique? A one-of-a-kind opportunity to participate in a 3 hour Equine Assisted Learning session prior to your camp experience. Working with our ponies and experienced trainers, LITs complete activities with our ponies designed to help identify leadership styles, gain confidence and learn appropriate assertiveness.
Our Leaders in Training program is perfect for youth ages 15-17.
