This Years Trip
Camp Barnard
The rugged wilderness surrounding Camp Barnard offers exceptional opportunities for backcountry camping enthusiasts. Located in Victoria, British Columbia's forested landscape, this region features dense coastal temperate rainforest with dramatic terrain, creating diverse landscapes that range from old-growth cedar groves to alpine meadows. The area's mild maritime climate makes it accessible for extended camping seasons, though weather can shift rapidly from clear skies to fog and rain.
Note: This expedition has hikers sleeping under tarps.Vancouver Island Backcountry Skills Course
| AGE | GENDER | PROGRAM LENGTH |
|---|---|---|
| 10 - 15 | Inclusive | 3 days |
| PROGRAM COST | DATES | |
| $305 + GST | Dec 4th 2026 6:00pm - Dec 6th 2026 5:00pm | |
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The WE Adventures Advantage
WE Adventures Team Members
WE Adventures Provides
When, Where & What
In the evening on Friday, parents will drop-off at Westhills YMCA (Langford, BC) at the below times. The youth will be transported by Landon to Camp Barnard in WEA's vehicle. Upon return on Sunday, Landon will text or email all parents that the group is leaving Camp Barnard and is x minutes away as per the PM column of the table below.
| LOCATION | DEPARTURE (Leaves at) | ARRIVAL (Returns at) | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Westhills YMCA | 18:00 | 17:00 | Exact end time will be texted 30 min prior. |
Camp Barnard's 250 acres serve as the setting for transformative outdoor learning. We equip youth and adult organizations with the facilities and environment they need—kitchens, cabins, and wilderness sites—to deliver meaningful programs that challenge participants while keeping them safe. Since its founding over 75 years ago, Camp Barnard has been cultivating skills, confidence, and a lasting appreciation for nature.
The Experience
The purpose of this event is to allow all the leadership youth to bond and develop basic camping skills. By bringing together young leaders in an outdoor setting, participants will have the opportunity to strengthen their relationships while gaining practical experience in wilderness survival and teamwork.
This camping experience will take place in the forest around the Victoria area, providing participants with an authentic natural environment to learn and grow. The forested landscape offers the ideal backdrop for hands-on skill development and personal growth, allowing youth to disconnect from everyday distractions and fully engage with both their peers and the outdoor environment.
Participants will develop a comprehensive range of basic camping skills essential for outdoor adventures. These include tent setup and breakdown, outdoor cooking techniques, tarp usage and shelter construction, group decision-making processes, knot-tying and rope work, and other fundamental wilderness competencies. Each skill builds confidence and self-reliance while reinforcing the importance of preparation and safety in outdoor settings.
The returning youth will be planning and preparing for this trip, taking on leadership roles that extend beyond participation. This responsibility allows experienced campers to mentor newer members, deepen their own expertise, and develop organizational and planning skills. This approach fosters a culture of peer leadership and ensures that younger participants benefit from the knowledge and experience of those who have attended previous events.
What to bring
Download Packing ListIt is essential that participants bring all the items on the packing list the returning youth will be making to ensure a safe and positive experience. If any gear is missing from any participant, the trip may be cancelled. If the participant does not have any of this gear, please let WEA know prior to November 10th @ 21:00. The packing list can be found in the trip folder (once the youth planning have completed it). Remember to bring all trip paperwork. Please note that the list may be changed in the days prior depending on weather and snow conditions.
Weather & Terrain
The weather at this time of year can be very wet and cold. Plan for rain or snow, up to -5 degrees Celsius overnight and daily highs of 4-12 degrees C. As the weather can be variable, the trip may need to be cancelled at the last minute.
What will my child learn?
Learn how to to find your way on poorly marked trails or off-traill all together with experienced profressional instructors in a challenging but not too challenging wilderness area.
- tarping
- whittling
- building a fire
- tying knots
- camp stove operation
- cleaning dishes at camp
- first aid
- using bear caches
Safety
Western Educational Adventures takes safety seriously. While we’re committed to providing exceptional experiences, our highest priority is ensuring every participant returns home safe and sound. We believe that feeling safe is essential to learning, growth, and fully engaging in the experience. Our staff are certified in wilderness first aid and bring years of experience managing risk in outdoor environments. You won’t find a more qualified or prepared team.
Food and Food Allergies
We believe that a good experience starts with good nutrition. We strive to provide quality, simple, wholesome meals with limited processed ingredients – in addition to the occasional smores and other tasty treats. This is part of why we include our participants in all meal planning, purchasing and cooking.