We’re proud to show you all of our past issues of the South Tea Echo. True to form, it captures so many of the memorable events, activities, stories and traditions which make a summer to always remember, along with photos of the countless smiling faces of our campers and staff.
We are THRILLED to bring Family Camp back for another year. We are planning another action-packed few days and below you will find many of the details for this amazing opportunity to be at Tamakwa as a family. We look forward to welcoming you!
What
Tamakwa Family Camp will be an unbelievable weekend of fun with those you love most in the place we love most. This is the perfect opportunity for parents to be campers for the first time or to relive camper days of years past as part of a cabin group with other families creating meaningful friendships and lasting memories together. The schedule will include a fantastic mix of camper-oriented, parent-oriented and family-oriented activities. Other highlights will of course include spirited sing songs, evening programs, wonderful food, a Tamakwa-classic medley marathon relay race, music, lots of laughs and non-stop campfires. This will be an event in beautiful Algonquin Park you won’t want to miss.
WHY
Family Camp is the perfect end to your summer and will allow you to connect with your family and friends and enjoy an incredible time together just before another school year begins. For those with young kids, this is also a perfect opportunity to prepare your soon-to-be-campers for their first experience at residential summer camp. It will also help parents understand how incredible camp is and how much fun their kids will have in a safe and nurturing environment like Camp Tamakwa in Algonquin Park.
WHEN
Friday, August 30 through Sunday, September 1, 2019
(Click Here for a Weekend Schedule of Events)
WHO
It’s for any family, including past, present & future campers, staff, alumni, families and friends who love the great outdoors to come enjoy an incredible few days at Camp Tamakwa. At least one adult camper and one youth camper from each family must attend.
WHERE
Really ?? Camp Tamakwa, Algonquin Park, Canada… of course… about 2.5 hours north of Toronto. Algonquin Park is a Canadian national treasure where people travel from all around the world to enjoy its unique wilderness setting.
HOW!HOW! MUCH
ADULT CAMPERS (16+) – $250 (plus 13% HST)
YOUTH CAMPERS (4-15) – $150 (plus 13% HST)
3 AND UNDER – no charge
*rates are in Canadian Dollars but USD checks/cash will be accepted
**EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT of $25 for each family member will be applied for registrations before June 1, 2019
***the online registration process will allow payment to be made online
MISC HOW HOWS
Housing – All families must be prepared to share our camper cabins with other families in true summer camp fashion. As always, cabin mate requests are welcome!
Camp Staff – Access to activities, equipment, and assistance from our staff will be provided to help offer instruction and ensure the safety of our Family Camp campers. In addition to regular activities, special events, tournaments and challenges will also be organized. Whether you decide to take part in all the amazing adventurous activities or choose to bask in the sunshine and relax, you are sure to have a wonderful time and enjoy being in beautiful Algonquin Park. Babysitting (a.k.a. Night Duty) may be available for a period of time each night for campers 5+. Any alumni or parents interested in assisting as staff for all or part of Family Camp should contact us right away. Group led activity suggestions are also welcome.
Kids/Supervision – Family Camp isn’t just for kids, but of course kids hold a very special place in our hearts. There will be plenty of activities geared towards kids but we encourage families to take advantage of the opportunity of enjoying camp together. Parents must supervise their kids throughout Family Camp but there will be special programming geared for kids when they can be left with our amazing staff during the day. Children under 5 must be accompanied by a parent at all times.
Food – Our camp chef will continue to provide amazing, nutritious and delicious meals throughout Family Camp. Meals will include incredible homemade baked goods, vegetarian options and a great salad bar. Drinks, snacks, and fruit will always be available in the Dining hall throughout the day/night. Please be sure to inform us of any food allergies/intolerances or health issues in your family you feel we should be aware of well before arriving at camp. As always, our chef and his staff will do their best to satisfy all special dietary needs, however for certain intolerances we may suggest bringing some of your own food. Please be aware Camp Tamakwa is a “nut safe” facility with no known nuts or nut products allowed in camp. Please help us by not bringing any nuts or nut products with you to camp.
Weather – We always expect the unexpected in Algonquin Park, but typical weather at the beginning of September includes beautiful sunny golden days and clear cool nights. (Click Here for a current 7-day forecast for Algonquin Park)
Packing List – You should bring a warm jacket for night-time campfires and star-gazing. We always have to be ready for some liquid sunshine too, so be sure to bring a rain coat. (Click Here for a suggested Packing List)
Technology – While we strictly adhere to our no technology policy at camp, we understand your need to stay connected to other family members back home. PLEASE keep all cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc. inside your cabins only. We do not have internet access for your devices. Please tell family members at home they are able to call the main camp office (705-633-5561) with any emergencies or important messages. Computers will be available in the Staff Rec Lounge for checking emails, etc.
Medical – Adult campers are responsible for administering medication for themselves and their children. Medications should be kept securely in your cabins but may also be given to us to keep in the clinic for you upon your arrival. We will possibly have one of our camp nurses available for the weekend and emergency services are readily available as always. Further health history information may be gathered closer to Family Camp but feel free to share any important medical information with us during the registration process.
Other Information:
CLICK HERE to register online
We’re very excited to see all of you on the shores of South Tea !
Our facility is available for rental groups after our regular summer season, in late August, September, and sometimes into early October, as a venue for:
• WEDDINGS
• SCHOOL GROUPS
• CORPORATE GROUPS
• FAMILY RETREATS
• SEMINARS & CONFERENCES
During the summer, Camp Tamakwa operates as a private co-ed residential children’s ontario summer camp, an all-around recreational wonderland for our campers and staff. Located in Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Tamakwa is a 2.5 hour drive from Toronto. Tamakwa is basically the sole user of South Tea Lake, a picturesque lake, approximately one square mile in size. In the middle are three islands, including “Treasure Island”, a traditional destination for long distance swims, about half a mile from camp’s shore.
In the off-season, Tamakwa provides the perfect venue for outdoor education, leadership development and team building by school groups, organizations, conferences, corporations, not to mention an incredible backdrop for beautiful Algonquin weddings and family retreats.
Nestled along the winding shoreline of South Tea Lake, just minutes from Algonquin Park’s West Gate in Ontario, Tamakwa is noted for its strikingly picturesque and secluded setting. Accessible only by water, Tamakwa’s long lakefront and sloping forested hills offer the true essence of living in the northern woods, while in the comfort of well-maintained accommodations.
Tamakwa offers a wide range of recreational facilities, most prominently the surrounding natural Algonquin wilderness. In close proximity are cookout sites, waterfalls, islands, a beaver dam, adjoining lakes and streams, hiking & biking trails, and numerous other natural sites to be explored and enjoyed.
ACTIVITIES
Our website depicts all the incredible activities available at Tamakwa throughout the summer and most, if not all, can be available for our rental groups. Groups can be arranged and scheduled with or without Tamakwa staff or instructors but a group of Tamakwa support staff will always be available in the off-season. Certain activities require specialized supervision (i.e. lifeguards, canoe guides, nurses, certified specialists in Ropes Course & Climbing Wall operation, Canoeing, Sailing, Windsurfing, etc).
FEES STRUCTURE
There is a wide range of rates calculated on a per person per day basis (plus applicable taxes). Rates will depends on the number of group participants, length of stay, activities used, Tamakwa-provided personnel, and of course menu. Please contact us for further details.
OTHER FACILITIES
• Large Rec Hall – Multi-purpose auditorium with removable seating/benches. Stage, lighting, and audio/visual system with large screen video projector
• “The Slope” – Outdoor amphitheatre overlooking lake
• “Loon Lodge” – Newly built, covered amphitheatre with stage, lighting, and sound system… can be used with benches in place or otherwise
• “Art-Deck-O” – Outdoor stage
• Large Dining Hall with fireplace (serves as indoor conference meeting area)
• Indoor lounge with food serving area
• Video “loft”: with large screen TV, DVD & VCR
• 8+ campfire areas
• 2 amphitheatre bleacher style seating areas with campfire pits; one of them on the beach
• 2 Waterfront areas with enclosed swim docks (pool-like area with a length of approx 75ft) – one waterfront area has a sandy beach, shallow area, deep end, water trampoline and swim tower
• an outdoor sports complex with roller blade hockey rink and basketball court on a professional “SportCourt” surface
• Ballfield with backstop and dugouts: softball or hardball, soccer, football, ultimate frisbess, track & field, and more
• Public address system throughout entire camp
• Game room with ping pong and “foosball” tables
BOAT FLEET
• 3 Pointer transport boats (36 ft)
• Utility barge for baggage and supplies
• Large fleet of sail boats, windsurfers, canoes (cedar/canvas, kevlar & aluminium), kayaks, stand-up paddle boards… and fleet of small motorized rescue boats
DINING HALL
• Capacity for 350-400
• 45 hardwood tables and cedar benches (seating for 10-14 per table)
• Stone fireplace
• Outdoor eating facilities as well
CABINS / ACCOMMODATIONS
• Sleeping capacity for 350-400
• 36 cabins (with electricity), 26 of which have washrooms (shower, sinks and toilets) while the other cabins are serviced by conveniently located large communal washroom facilities
• Capacity of different cabins varies, but average of 8-12 beds per camper cabin
• Separate “Staff” housing is available including a limited supply of “executive style” housing (heated, carpeted, & private bathroom)
FOOD SERVICE
• Full range of food service available from gourmet to camp style; can cater to any taste or budget
• Barbeques, food stations, picnics, short order, sweet tables
• Three nutritionally balanced meals and evening snack daily (vegetarian meals available)
• Menu can always be be tailored to each group’s needs, recommendations, and approval
• Most special requests made in advance can be accommodated
WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT TAMAKWA?
Tamakwa’s most prominent feature is its Algonquin setting. The description of Tamakwa as a “recreational village” — where participants live, work, and play in a forest environment — translates to both individual and team growth. We find that the setting and facility are vehicles to the enhancement of skills, leadership, camaraderie, self-esteem and resourcefulness. With clean air, a crystal clear lake with drinkable water, and peaceful starry nights…the setting is also a vehicle to clean healthy living.
As a point of special interest… Camp Tamakwa is featured in the Disney-Touchstone motion-picture INDIAN SUMMER, filmed at Camp Tamakwa in 1992, starring Alan Arkin, Diane Lane, Kevin Pollak, Julie Warner, Bill Paxton, Matt Craven, Vincent Spano, and Elizabeth Perkins… and was written and directed by Tamakwa Alum Mike Binder.
Please Contact Us for more information on how your group can enjoy Camp Tamakwa and Algonquin Park in Ontario.
Thank you for your interest in Tamakwa and congratulations on your engagement! Algonquin Park is a world-renowned setting perfectly suited to host your upcoming wedding. We would love to hear more about your plans and look forward to chatting with you soon!
We are THRILLED to bring Family Camp back for another year. We are planning another action-packed few days and below you will find many of the details for this amazing opportunity to be at Tamakwa as a family. We look forward to welcoming you!
What
Tamakwa Family Camp will be an unbelievable weekend of fun with those you love most in the place we love most. This is the perfect opportunity for parents to be campers for the first time or to relive camper days of years past as part of a cabin group with other families creating meaningful friendships and lasting memories together. The schedule will include a fantastic mix of camper-oriented, parent-oriented and family-oriented activities. Other highlights will of course include spirited sing songs, evening programs, wonderful food, a Tamakwa-classic medley marathon relay race, music, lots of laughs and non-stop campfires. This will be an event in beautiful Algonquin Park you won’t want to miss.
WHY
Family Camp is the perfect end to your summer and will allow you to connect with your family and friends and enjoy an incredible time together just before another school year begins. For those with young kids, this is also a perfect opportunity to prepare your soon-to-be-campers for their first experience at residential summer camp. It will also help parents understand how incredible camp is and how much fun their kids will have in a safe and nurturing environment like Camp Tamakwa in Algonquin Park.
WHEN
TBD
(Click Here for a Weekend Schedule of Events)
WHO
It’s for any family, including past, present & future campers, staff, alumni, families and friends who love the great outdoors to come enjoy an incredible few days at Camp Tamakwa. At least one adult camper and one youth camper from each family must attend.
WHERE
Really ?? Camp Tamakwa, Algonquin Park, Canada… of course… about 2.5 hours north of Toronto. Algonquin Park is a Canadian national treasure where people travel from all around the world to enjoy its unique wilderness setting.
HOW!HOW! MUCH
ADULT CAMPERS (16+) – $250 (plus 13% HST)
YOUTH CAMPERS (4-15) – $150 (plus 13% HST)
3 AND UNDER – no charge
*rates are in Canadian Dollars but USD checks/cash will be accepted
**EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT of $25 for each family member will be applied for registrations before TBD
***the online registration process will allow payment to be made online
MISC HOW HOWS
Housing – All families must be prepared to share our camper cabins with other families in true summer camp fashion. As always, cabin mate requests are welcome!
Camp Staff – Access to activities, equipment, and assistance from our staff will be provided to help offer instruction and ensure the safety of our Family Camp campers. In addition to regular activities, special events, tournaments and challenges will also be organized. Whether you decide to take part in all the amazing adventurous activities or choose to bask in the sunshine and relax, you are sure to have a wonderful time and enjoy being in beautiful Algonquin Park. Babysitting (a.k.a. Night Duty) may be available for a period of time each night for campers 5+. Any alumni or parents interested in assisting as staff for all or part of Family Camp should contact us right away. Group led activity suggestions are also welcome.
Kids/Supervision – Family Camp isn’t just for kids, but of course kids hold a very special place in our hearts. There will be plenty of activities geared towards kids but we encourage families to take advantage of the opportunity of enjoying camp together. Parents must supervise their kids throughout Family Camp but there will be special programming geared for kids when they can be left with our amazing staff during the day. Children under 5 must be accompanied by a parent at all times.
Food – Our camp chef will continue to provide amazing, nutritious and delicious meals throughout Family Camp. Meals will include incredible homemade baked goods, vegetarian options and a great salad bar. Drinks, snacks, and fruit will always be available in the Dining hall throughout the day/night. Please be sure to inform us of any food allergies/intolerances or health issues in your family you feel we should be aware of well before arriving at camp. We will do their best to satisfy all special dietary needs, however for certain intolerances we may suggest bringing some of your own food. Please be aware Camp Tamakwa is a “nut safe” facility with no known nuts or nut products allowed in camp. Please help us by not bringing any nuts or nut products with you to camp.
Weather – We always expect the unexpected in Algonquin Park, but typical weather at the beginning of September includes beautiful sunny golden days and clear cool nights. (Click Here for a current 7-day forecast for Algonquin Park)
Packing List – You should bring a warm jacket for night-time campfires and star-gazing. We always have to be ready for some liquid sunshine too, so be sure to bring a rain coat. (Click Here for a suggested Packing List)
Technology – While we strictly adhere to our no technology policy at camp, we understand your need to stay connected to other family members back home. PLEASE keep all cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc. inside your cabins only. We do not have internet access for your devices. Please tell family members at home they are able to call the main camp office (705-633-5561) with any emergencies or important messages. Computers will be available in the Staff Rec Lounge for checking emails, etc.
Medical – Adult campers are responsible for administering medication for themselves and their children. Medications should be kept securely in your cabins but may also be given to us to keep in the clinic for you upon your arrival. We will possibly have one of our camp nurses available for the weekend and emergency services are readily available as always. Further health history information may be gathered closer to Family Camp but feel free to share any important medical information with us during the registration process.
Other Information:
CLICK HERE to register online
We’re very excited to see all of you on the shores of South Tea !
Over just a few days, the Tamakwa Weekend Mini-Session provides young campers a quick glimpse into the exciting world of overnight camp. First-time campers participate in Tamakwa’s diverse activities, enjoy our various water sports, land sports, creative arts activities and of course our amazing and creative evening programs.
This coming summer we are once again offering a Weekend Mini-Session from Friday, August 7 to Sunday, August 9, 2020. This weekend is open to any campers ages 6-10 and costs $180 CDN (plus 13% HST).
We are excited to provide new prospective campers the chance to experience Tamakwa’s incredible camp spirit and traditions and to witness first-hand the beauty of Algonquin Park and the unparalleled energy that makes Tamakwa so magical and unique.
Mini-Session campers will stay in their own designated cabins exclusively for our weekend campers but will join the Tamakwa family in our dining hall for all meals as well as most activities during the day and evening. Round trip transportation will be provided from Toronto. Location details will be confirmed closer to departure.
Click Here to Register Now!
Please feel free to contact us in the Toronto office to discuss availability for this weekend.
Welcome to the Tamakwa One Day Teaser 2020 !
We are very excited to announce THE TAMAKWA TEASER, a one day session for campers between the ages of 6-10, is taking place on FRIDAY, JULY 10, 2020.
Teaser Campers will have an opportunity to try many of our exciting activities, view live demonstrations from our campers and staff, and get a feel for Tamakwa’s spirit, energy and over 80 year history.
This incredible, jam-packed day is the perfect way to give your first-time campers a small taste of what residential summer camp life in majestic Algonquin Park, Ontario is all about.
The bus will depart from Toronto at 7am and will return at 9pm.
Registration fee is $50 (includes transportation, meals, snacks and taxes).
Register your camper, spread the word, and help give your child an experience they will never forget.
Click Here to Register Now!!
Junior Tamakwan Program (grades 1-3)
What about CHILDREN going away to camp for the first time who aren’t sure they’re ready for a full camp session ?
Our Answer…
OUR JUNIOR TAMAKWAN (J.T.) PROGRAM
The J.T. Program is designed to ensure a comfortable and secure adjustment to overnight camping, yet also challenge younger campers with new skills, activities, and outdoor adventures.
Tamakwa’s regular sessions are 4 weeks each. First time J.T.’s can attend camp for the first two weeks of second session with the option of staying the remaining 2 weeks.
J.T.’S GET THE SAME UNIQUE CAMP EXPERIENCE & ACTIVITIES
ENJOYED BY ALL TAMAKWA CAMPERS, BUT THEY ALSO GET…
| A LITTLE MORE ATTENTION | J.T.’s are an integral part of the Tamakwa family. They take part in every camp activity, but at levels especially designed for their age and capability. |
| A LITTLE MORE SUPERVISION | The J.T. Director is a member of our administrative staff who supervises the counseling as well as activity aspects of the program. J.T. counselors , who are handpicked for their maturity and patience, get special training with emphasis o the specific physical, emotional, and hygienic needs of our youngest campers. |
| A LITTLE MORE STRUCTURE AND A LOT MORE SPECIAL EVENTS | Among others: daily swim instruction, musicals, talent shows, special sports leagues and tournaments, overnight canoe trips, cookouts, star-gazing, bedtime stories, snacks, and campfires. |
| A LITTLE MORE TIRED AT THE END OF THE DAY | J.T. Bedtime is 9:30pm. |
What about PARENTS sending children to camp for the first time
who aren’t sure they’re ready for a full camp session?
Our Answer is still…
OUR JUNIOR TAMAKWAN (J.T.) PROGRAM
The J.T. Program is (also) intended to help put parents at ease in sending their children away from home, often for the very first time. After all, in many cases, the separation is more difficult for the parents of our J.T.’s than the J.T.’s themselves.
Our J.T. Program, established in 1984, is age appropriate and ensures each camper is embraced and cared for individually. The program has helped graduate our youngest campers into well-rounded grown-up campers and subsequently into loving and caring staff members. Our J.T.’s engage in all the same activities as the older campers but are taught at their level. They also follow a similar low, mid, and high level award system to provide them with goals and positive reinforcement.
Each camper is returned to his/her parents healthy, with a stronger sense of independence, confidence and greater self esteem, as well as a little dirtier and with fewer pieces of clothing that “whence they came” to camp We do consider ourselves your partner in the development of your child and truly want to be your partner.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR J.T. PARENTS ABOUT CHOOSING 2 OR 4 WEEKS
There are many reasons families consider when selecting a 2-week session vs 4 weeks. Regardless of the decision, our primary goal is to make sure your child’s inaugural camp experience is a positive one. Our experience shows us quite often if kids are signed up for 2 weeks, with an option to stay for 4 weeks, they tend to focus too much attention on the decision-making process. They feel pressure to make up their mind instead of focusing on having the best time possible at camp. If you’re hoping for or open minded to your child staying for 4 weeks, then sign up for the full session. If towards the end of 2 weeks, and after informative conversations with us, you decide that 2 weeks is enough to ensure your child leaves feeling happy and successful, then your child will leave at the 2 week mark. There will be no pressure on your child to stay longer and there will be NO financial penalty. You will only be charged the 2 week fee and receive a refund for the difference. Every situation is unique and you know your child best, but our experience shows if you reassure your child that you are making the decision with camp and they should not think about it, they will feel relieved and enjoy all camp has to offer.
If you have any questions, or seek guidance with decisions about your J.T. camper, please Contact Us at any time.
MORNING
8:00 – GOOD MORNING / WAKE-UP BELL
8:15 – 15 MINUTE BELL FOR BREAKFAST
– campers set their tables
8:30 – BREAKFAST
– morning announcements
– musical meditation
9:00 – FLAG RAISING / ANTHEM SINGING
– camp wide send off for departing canoe trips
– cabin clean-up
10:00 – 1st ACTIVITY
– individual choice
11:00 – 2nd ACTIVITY
– individual choice
AFTERNOON
12:00 – 15 MINUTE BELL FOR LUNCH
– campers set their tables
12:15 – LUNCH
– afternoon announcements
1:00 – REST HOUR
– mail is handed out
2:25 – 3rd ACTIVITY
– instructional swim for JTs
3:25 – TOOTSIE FROOTSIE
– “everybody gets” fruit break
– camp wide welcome for returning canoe trips
3:35 – 4th ACTIVITY
– cabin activity
4:25 – 5th ACTIVITY
– cabin activity
5:15 – GENERAL SWIM
– free play activities
– shower time
– get ready for dinner
5:45 – HALF HOUR BELL FOR DINNER
– half hour for dinner
EVENING
6:00 – 15 MINUTE BELL FOR DINNER
– campers set their tables
6:15 – DINNER
– evening announcements
6:45 – FLAG LOWERING & TUCK
7:00 – TWILIGHT TIME
– free play activities
7:45 – BELL FOR EVENING PROGRAM
– section meeting places
(JTs meet at the Rec Hall)
9:00 – EVENING PROGRAM ENDS
– cabin or section campfires
– camper snack
9:30 – LIGHTS OUT FOR JT’s
