Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Wilderness Adventure Camp in Saskatchewan
St. John Bosco Wilderness Camp has been dedicated to providing transformative outdoor experiences for youth since 1958. Our mission centers on fostering physical, mental, and spiritual growth through immersive wilderness adventures. Nestled on the shores of Zeden and Ispuchaw Lakes in Saskatchewan's Narrow Hills Provincial Park, we offer structured programs that combine skill-building, teamwork, and environmental stewardship. Our experienced staff prioritizes safety while guiding campers through canoeing, archery, orienteering, and multi-day wilderness trips. We emphasize community development through shared experiences like evening liturgies and collaborative challenges.Our programs cater to diverse age groups, with progressive skill development from introductory junior sessions to advanced leadership training. The camp maintains a strong tradition of volunteer support and community fundraising to ensure accessibility. Our facilities include dedicated spaces for water activities, sports, and creative expression using natural materials. We maintain year-round operations through our Saskatoon office while delivering summer programs at our remote wilderness location. Our commitment to quality programming has sustained us through decades of service to youth development.
Services
Canoeing
Archery
Orienteering
Wilderness Skills
Naturelore
Discovery Programs
Group Initiatives
Hebertism
Swimming
Adventure Leadership
Details
- Year established: 1958
Highlights and features
- We offer 65+ years of wilderness programming experience in Saskatchewan's provincial parks
- Our staff includes certified instructors in canoeing, archery, and wilderness safety
- We provide progressive skill development from introductory programs to advanced leadership training
- Our programs combine physical challenges with spiritual reflection and community building
- We maintain modern facilities while preserving traditional wilderness camping values
Services
Wilderness Out-Tripping Skills
This 10-day wilderness hiking adventure for ages 13-16 combines skill development with practical application. Participants plan and execute 7-day hiking trips through Saskatchewan's wilderness areas. The program emphasizes navigation, campsite selection, and group dynamics while exploring diverse terrain and natural environments.
Canoe Out-Tripping Skills
A 10-day water-based adventure for ages 14-16 involving historic water route navigation. Campers develop flat and moving water paddling skills while planning and executing multi-day canoe trips. The program includes wilderness camping, fishing opportunities, and environmental observation experiences on Saskatchewan's lakes and rivers.
Adventure Leadership Experience
This 24-day leadership development program challenges ages 15-17 through extended wilderness expeditions. Participants develop personal leadership styles while managing group dynamics during hiking and canoeing adventures. The program prepares graduates for potential staff roles through comprehensive wilderness and leadership training.
Naturelore Program
Hands-on environmental education teaches campers about local ecosystems through weather observation, plant identification, and wildlife tracking. Participants learn their role in natural systems through guided exploration and discovery activities. The program fosters environmental stewardship through direct interaction with Saskatchewan's wilderness habitats.
Group Initiatives
Structured team-building activities develop cooperation and problem-solving skills through low-ropes courses and collaborative challenges. Participants learn effective communication while overcoming physical and mental obstacles. The program emphasizes trust development and leadership rotation within group settings.
People
Grace Hardy
Camp Director - 2025
Experienced camp director with extensive background in wilderness programming and youth development. Committed to maintaining traditional camping values while implementing modern safety standards. Brings leadership expertise to ensure quality program delivery.
Karen Babcock
Camp Manager
Seasoned camp manager overseeing daily operations and staff coordination. Focuses on creating positive outdoor experiences while maintaining safety and program integrity. Provides leadership for both seasonal and year-round camp activities.
Sarah Hounjet
Camp Director - 2025
Dedicated camp director with specialized knowledge in wilderness safety and program development. Works to ensure campers receive comprehensive outdoor education experiences. Brings expertise in adventure programming and youth engagement strategies.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer programs for youth aged 8 through 17 with progressive skill development opportunities.
What wilderness skills will campers learn?
Campers develop canoeing, hiking, orienteering, outdoor cooking, and wilderness safety skills.
Are transportation services available?
We provide bus service between Saskatoon/Prince Albert and camp with additional fees.
How does the camp handle food service?
We're currently fundraising for a new dining facility to replace our aging infrastructure.
What leadership opportunities exist?
Advanced programs like ALE develop leadership skills through extended wilderness expeditions.
How can families support the camp?
Volunteers earn Bosco Bucks toward camper fees through fundraising participation.
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