A Safe, Curated Outdoor Adventure for Parents and Autistic Youth — Built for Connection, Not Therapy.
Reconnect, unplug, and build confidence together in a structured, sensory-aware outdoor environment.
This Turnkey Parent–Youth Adventure Weekend is designed for autistic and neurodivergent youth ages 9–18 who thrive with clear expectations and hands-on learning.
We handle the gear, meals, and programming — and every weekend includes access to a dedicated on-site quiet room, so no family ever has to push past their comfort zone.
Who This Experience Is For
This weekend is designed for parents and autistic or neurodivergent youth (ages 9–18) who want to spend meaningful time together — without pressure, performance, or forced conversation.
This is not a therapy program or an intervention.
It’s a recreational, adventure-based weekend built around shared outdoor activities, clear structure, and supportive environments.
This experience is a good fit if:
Your child benefits from structure and clear expectations
Activities are explained step-by-step, with predictable routines and visible boundaries.Connection happens more easily while doing, not talking
Building, navigating, paddling, or solving a task together often feels more natural than face-to-face conversation.You value confidence, teamwork, and mutual respect
Parents and youth participate together, side-by-side. Roles can shift, and youth are encouraged to take the lead when ready.Your child is safety-aware and can follow multi-step instructions
This program is designed for youth who can stay with the group and follow safety guidelines.You want a shared experience you can return to later
A weekend that creates reference points — moments you can talk about long after it’s over.
This experience might not be a good fit if:
Your child has a high elopement (running) risk
Your child requires 1:1 clinical or behavioral support
You’re looking for a therapy-based or treatment program
We share this upfront so families can decide what’s right for them — with clarity and no pressure.
What this is - and isn't
This is:
Recreational
Adventure-based
Structured and safety-focused
Sensory-aware by design
This isn't:
Therapy
Treatment
A bootcamp
A corrective program
Our Philosophy: Beyond the Routine
The core promise of this experience is simple: when parents and neurodivergent youth step out of daily routines and into a structured, shared challenge, authentic connection happens more naturally.
Tents set up in our wilderness camp during our parent–youth adventure camp at The Off Grid Ark.
What Makes This Experience Different?
It isn’t the specific activities; it’s how we manage the sensory environment and logistics so families can show up without the stress.
Distractions Fade: Phones stay available for photos and safety, but day-to-day distractions and demands fade into the background.
Predictable Structure: We use clear, visual schedules and predictable routines. When anxiety is managed, conversation flows more easily, teamwork feels natural, and attention shifts back to the moment.
Turnkey & Supported: Parents and youth aren't watching from the sidelines; you're participating side-by-side with all gear and food provided. We leverage our on-site quiet room as a sensory safety net.
This experience is intentionally designed to create those conditions, shared focus, shared effort, and managed sensory input, so connection can grow without pressure or forcing anything. It’s about building mutual respect, partnership, and a different kind of interaction than everyday life allows.
3-Day, 2-Night Adventure Weekend
Our Predictable Daily Rhythm: Structure, Choice, & Connection
Each day at The Ark follows a clear, predictable schedule blending neuro-inclusive outdoor skills, cooperation, and meaningful family time.
We maintain consistent start and meal times, while offering flexibility within activities through our “Challenge by Choice” approach. Families always know what’s coming next — and always have options within the experience.
Day 1: Arrival, Orientation & First Wins
Morning arrival is encouraged (between 9:30–11:00 AM), though families are welcome to arrive anytime that day. Our team will guide you through a calm, structured check-in whenever you arrive.
Arrival & Settle In
Check in at Basecamp
Build your campsite together using the gear we provide
Explore the Basecamp Shelter and Quiet Room
Welcome Circle & Orientation
Visual overview of the weekend schedule
Clear explanation of facilities, boundaries, and safety systems
Introduction to “Challenge by Choice”
Transition cues and what to expect next
Midday Lunch Break
Structured lunch at Basecamp
Predictable timing and clear return cues
Afternoon — Basecamp Skills & Team Activities
A relaxed but purposeful afternoon focused on:
Introductory outdoor skills (knots, simple fire-building foundations, map basics)
Short cooperative challenges designed for early success
Familiarization with tools and shared expectations
Activities are paced intentionally to build confidence without overwhelm.
Evening — Campfire & Wind Down
Optional campfire gathering
Guided reflection prompts
Clear end-of-day routine
The Quiet Room remains available at all times for decompression or reduced stimulation.
Day 2: Water Exploration & Teamwork
A full day focused on shared accomplishment, steady progression, and clear expectations.
Morning — Travel & Preparation
Group movement to the canoe launch with clear transition cues
Equipment overview and safety briefing
Defined expectations for communication and teamwork
On the Water — Skill Building & Practice
Calm-water paddling instruction
Learning coordinated strokes and boat control
Guided practice with steady coaching
Paddle out and explore the calm, flat-water Gatineau River
The focus is cooperation and communication as a family team. Activities progress step-by-step, building comfort before challenge.
Midday — Structured Island Picnic Lunch
Planned lunch break with predictable timing
Clear transition cues before returning to activity
Afternoon — Confidence Extension
Paddle return to the canoe put-in.
Load canoes and gear onto truck and trailer
Return to Basecamp with clear wind-down transition
Evening — Recovery & Reset
Predictable return routine
Free time before dinner
Optional evening gathering
*Families who prefer not to participate in the water portion may remain at Basecamp, where independent skill stations and quiet activities are available.
Day 3: The Forest Challenge & Celebration
A purposeful final day focused on teamwork, shared decision-making, and finishing strong together.
Morning — Family Navigation Challenge
Guided introduction to map and compass fundamentals
Family teams locate forest checkpoints at their own pace
Emphasis on communication, strategy, and staying together
This is not a race. Success is measured by cooperation and problem-solving, not speed.
Midday — Regroup & Reset
Structured break at Basecamp
Clear transition cues before moving into the final challenge
Afternoon — Skills & Capstone Challenges
Cooperative fire-building or shelter tasks
Team-based problem-solving activities
Opportunities for youth leadership and parent support
Activities are structured to reinforce what families have practiced throughout the weekend — clarity, patience, communication, and shared effort.
Closing Circle & Recognition
Calm group reflection
Certificates recognizing participation, effort, and growth
Clear closing routine and next steps
Families leave with shared skills, shared memories, and a defined end to the experience.
2-Day, 1-Night Discovery Weekend
Each Discovery Weekend at The Ark follows a clear, structured schedule designed to feel manageable, predictable, and purposeful.
Over two days and one overnight, families experience neuro-inclusive outdoor skills, cooperation, and meaningful time together within a steady rhythm.
We maintain consistent start times and meal breaks, provide clear transition cues throughout the day, and offer flexibility within each activity so families can participate at a comfortable pace.
Day 1: Arrival & Foundations
The first day is designed to help families settle in, understand the rhythm of the weekend, and experience early success together.
Morning Arrival
Morning arrival is encouraged (between 9:30–11:00 AM), though families are welcome anytime that day. Each family is guided through a calm, structured check-in upon arrival.
Guided Camp Setup
Check in at Basecamp
Build your campsite together using the gear we provide
Explore the Basecamp Shelter and Quiet Room
Welcome & Orientation
Visual overview of the weekend schedule
Clear explanation of facilities, boundaries, and safety systems
Introduction to how activities are paced and supported
Afternoon — Foundational Skills & Early Wins
A relaxed but purposeful afternoon focused on:
Introductory outdoor skills (knots, simple fire-building basics, map awareness)
Short cooperative challenges designed for early confidence
Clear start and end points for each activity
Activities are paced intentionally to build comfort before challenge.
Evening — Wind Down
Optional campfire gathering
Calm closing routine for the day
Clear expectations for the next morning
The Quiet Room remains available at all times for decompression or reduced stimulation.
Day 2: Forest Challenge & Wrap-Up
The second day brings families into a focused, cooperative challenge that builds on the foundations from Day 1.
Morning — Family Navigation Challenge
Introduction to basic map and compass use
Clear explanation of checkpoints and boundaries
Family teams navigate a short forest course at their own pace
This is not a race. The emphasis is on staying together, communicating clearly, and making decisions as a team.
Checkpoints are designed to be achievable and confidence-building, reinforcing cooperation rather than competition.
Midday — Regroup & Skills Reinforcement
Structured return to Basecamp
Short break with predictable timing
Cooperative fire-building or problem-solving challenge
These activities reinforce skills learned the previous day while allowing youth and parents to support each other in new ways.
Afternoon — Closing Circle & Recognition
Break down camp
Calm group reflection
Certificates recognizing participation, effort, and teamwork
Clear departure routine (by 4:00 PM)
Families leave with shared skills, shared language, and a defined sense of completion.
Benefits for Parents & Youth:
The Neuro-Inclusive Difference
This experience is intentionally designed to address the specific needs of neurodivergent families. We remove logistical and sensory barriers so genuine connection can thrive without pressure.
For Youth (ages 9-18)
Authentic Confidence: Build real outdoor skills (fire, navigation) within a safe, predictable structure. Success comes from effort, not competition.
A Safe Wilderness: Enjoy nature with access to our dedicated on-site Quiet Room and the secondary Cliffside Cabin for guaranteed low-stimulus decompression when needed.
Lead at Your Own Pace: We use "Challenge by Choice" so you can step into leadership roles on your own terms, without forced interaction.
For Parents
Genuine Respite: This is a weekend where the environment is managed for you. The predictable structure and quiet spaces allow both you and your child to regulate your nervous systems, offering true rest.
See Strengths Clearly: Witness your youth demonstrate independence and problem-solving skills that daily routines often mask.
Logistics & Funding Relief: We handle all gear and food. As a Federal NPO in the filing process, we provide invoices structured for OAP and other subsidies, removing the administrative burden.
For Both
A Shared, Structured Story: Families feel like a stronger team because they worked through manageable challenges together.
An Accessible "Screen Break": With real challenges and clear, consistent structure, connection happens naturally.
Everything here is designed to support confidence, trust, and communication—without forcing conversations or creating pressure.
High Level Itinerary
Each day blends outdoor skills, teamwork, and meaningful connection — all at a relaxed, family-friendly pace.
Day 1 - Arrival and Foundations
Set up camp and settle into your site
Welcome briefing and safety orientation
Intro to outdoor basics (fire-building, tool use, teamwork)
Evening campfire connection time
Day 2 — Canoeing Adventure Day
This is a full, rewarding day focused on canoe skills and time on the water.
Drive to the canoe launch (6 km)
Unload canoes and gear
Canoeing instruction:
Portage carry
J-stroke
Draws
Pries
Steering as a team
Paddle "upriver" (no current) to an island
Lunch and swimming at the island (weather-dependent)
Paddle back to take-out
Load canoes, return to The Ark
Day 3 — Mantracker + Survivor Challenge Day
Morning — Mantracker Navigation Game
A parent–youth twist on the Off Grid Ark classic.
Map & compass navigation
Try to reach checkpoints while avoiding the “trackers”
Perfect balance of fun, strategy, and teamwork
Afternoon — Survivor® Challenge Finals
A fast-paced series of family-vs-family events:
Fire-building race
Giant slide puzzle
Rope handcuff escape
Blindfold obstacle course
Balance + endurance challenges
Memory Gauntlet — Blind Transfer Edition
All challenges use a points-based scoring system to keep things fair across ages.
Final tally & celebration
Awards ceremony
Certificates presented to each family team
What’s Included in This Parent-Youth Adventure?
Everything is fully guided, thoughtfully equipped, and designed to be as simple and turnkey as possible. What’s listed below is included — so you can focus on your time together, not the logistics or the packing list.
All Meals Provided
Nutritious, hearty meals provided throughout your stay, prepared together as a family team.
Indoor dining options available in our Basecamp Commons for sensory comfort.
All cooking gear, dishes, and utensils are provided.
(Allergies and specific dietary needs accommodated with advance notice.)
Tents & Camp Setup Gear (True Turnkey)
We remove the packing stress entirely:
The Sensory Safety Net
Access to our dedicated facilities for comfort and regulation:
Shelter Commons: Available as a primary indoor space for gathering, indoor eating, or inclement weather.
Quiet Sanctuaries: Access to our dedicated 10x12 Quiet Room and secondary Cliffside Cabin retreat for low-stimulus decompression whenever needed.
Canoes & Water Safety Gear (3-Day Adventure only)
All canoes, paddles, PFDs, dry bags, and transportation are fully provided and guided by calm, experienced leaders.
All Program Materials
Maps, compasses, puzzle boards, fire-building supplies—fully provided. The focus is on learning side by side, not being tested or judged by scorecards.
Guided Outdoor Leadership
Calm, supportive guidance throughout all activities. Our NPO program is rooted in positive reinforcement and neuro-inclusive best practices.
Small Group Size
Limited to 6 family teams for safety, connection, and personal attention.
Full Access to the Off Grid Ark
Over 160 acres of forest and trails, campfire areas, picnic tables, clean outhouses, fresh water, and shared spaces.
Sturdy group tents provided for each family team.
Sleeping pads, high-quality sleeping bags, and pillows are all included. Just bring personal clothing!
Funding & Subsidies:
Making Adventure Accessible
We believe that every youth deserves the chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the wild. While Off-Grid Ark is currently transitioning to a Federal Non-Profit (NPO) structure to better serve our community, we are already set up to help families access existing provincial funding.
Ontario Families: OAP & SSAH
Most of our Ontario guests are eligible to utilize one of two primary funding streams to cover or offset the cost of our Adventure Weekends:
Quebec Families: Support for Adapted Leisure
We work with families in the Outaouais and beyond to ensure our programming is accessible:
Ontario Autism Program (OAP): Our weekends are designed to meet the criteria for "Social and Community Participation" under OAP Core Clinical Services. This category supports recreational activities that help youth develop social skills and life skills in a community setting.
Note: Because we focus on inclusive recreation rather than clinical therapy, professional oversight (BCBA/SLP) is typically not required for this funding stream.
Special Services at Home (SSAH): Families can also use SSAH funding to cover camp fees under the "Primary Caregiver Relief (Respite)" or "Enriching Activities" categories. This is an excellent way to fund a weekend that provides both a break for parents and a growth experience for youth.
Companion Leisure Card (CAL): We support the spirit of the Companion Leisure Card (formerly VATL), ensuring that the support provided by a parent or companion is recognized within our turnkey model.
Direct Support: We provide the itemized receipts required for Quebec’s various respite and community participation tax credits or funding envelopes.
Our Commitment to Transparency
Upon registration, we provide a Comprehensive Funding Package including:
1. An Itemized Invoice: Clearly stating the fees for programming, equipment, and food.
2. A Participation Letter: Outlining the skills focused on during the weekend (e.g., social interaction, executive functioning, and environmental stewardship).
3. NPO Status Update: While we are in the application phase for Federal NPO status, our current structure allows for full reimbursement under the standard recreation guidelines of OAP and SSAH.
2026 Camp Dates
Maximum of 6 family teams per experience — and each weekend runs with no minimum enrollment.
Each date below offers the full Parent–Youth Experience — guided, small-group, and designed for meaningful time together.
If only one family registers, the experience still runs.
June 13-14: Discovery Weekend
July 17-19: Adventure Weekend
August 14-16: Adventure Weekend
August 22-23: Discovery Weekend
September 25-27: Adventure Weekend
Pricing
3-Day Adventure Weekend - $795 per family team
2-Day Discovery Weekend - $595 per family team
A family team includes one parent or guardian and one youth (ages 9–18).
Additional parent, guardian, or youth: $150 per person
All pricing includes:
Guided programming
Use of all provided camping gear
Meals (please bring your own snacks and special drinks - water will be readily available at the camp)
Access to the Quiet Room and Basecamp facilities
Small-group experience (maximum 6 family teams)
Registration & Refund Policy
Each weekend runs as scheduled with no minimum enrollment required.
A full refund is available within 14 days of registration.
After the 14-day window, registrations may be transferred to another available date if needed.
Choose How You Want to Get Started
⭐ Option 1 — Register Now (Deposit or Full Payment)
Pay the $200 Deposit
Secure your family’s spot today.
Balance due 30 days before camp.
Great if you want to lock in your weekend and handle payment later.
Or Pay in Full ($795)
Take care of everything at once.
Nothing else to think about.
⭐ Option 2 — Have a Question? Call or Text Me
My phone is on from 9am to 7pm, and I answer most of the time.
If I’m working on the sawmill, out in the canoe, or running a program, I may not be able to pick up right away.
If I miss your call, just send a quick text with the best times to reach you, and I’ll call you back.
📞 Call/Text: 819-422-1222
No pressure — just a real conversation to help you decide if this weekend is right for your family.
Safety and Supervision
Before building The Off Grid Ark, I spent years as a helicopter paramedic — experience that shapes our safety-first approach.
Safety is built into every part of this camp. All activities are designed to be beginner-friendly, age-appropriate, and achievable for families working together as a team.
Led by an Experienced Outdoor Professional
The entire program is facilitated by me — a retired helicopter paramedic with decades of emergency and wilderness experience. You’ll always have clear instruction, calm leadership, and a plan for every activity.
Reliable Communication & Emergency Access
95% cell service coverage across the property
20 minutes from Wakefield Hospital
First-aid gear on site and rapid access to the main Ark building or bunkhouse
Small Group Size
Limited to 3–6 family teams to ensure personal attention, safe oversight, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ground-Level, Low-Risk Challenges
There’s no climbing, cold-water immersion, heavy lifting, or high-speed activities. Everything is designed for family participation and success.
A group selfie during one of our outdoor leadership programs — moments like this are what make The Off Grid Ark special.
Canoeing on the Gatineau River is a highlight for many youth — especially when the dogs decide to join in.
Canoeing Safety
Canoes, PFDs, and all gear are provided. Instruction happens on flatwater, and families paddle as a supervised group.
Parents Stay With Their Youth
You remain with your youth throughout the entire program — during activities, meals, camp setup, and downtime — which makes the experience safer and more meaningful.
Screen-Free Focus (Not a Rule, But a Rhythm)
Phones can be used for photos and safety, but during activities the goal is to be fully present. Most families naturally put devices away as the weekend unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a parent–youth adventure camp?
It is a turnkey, neuro-inclusive, outdoor adventure experience designed for family connection, not therapy. We remove all logistical barriers (gear, food, planning) and provide a structured, supportive environment where parents and autistic youth (ages 9–18) can bond, learn real outdoor skills, and "unplug" together.
Is it safe?
Safety is paramount. While no outdoor program can be 100% risk-free, we manage that risk through intentional structure, predictability, and professional expertise.
The camp is led by a retired helicopter paramedic with decades of emergency and wilderness experience. Activities are designed to be ground-level, beginner-friendly, and follow a clear, predictable daily rhythm.
Structure over Chance:
Parents remain with their youth at all times, and all water activities take place in calm, flatwater conditions.
We use clear visual schedules to manage transitions and reduce anxiety.
Physical Safety Net:
We have comprehensive first-aid gear on site, reliable cell service across 95% of the property, and we’re only 20 minutes from the Wakefield Hospital.
Sensory Safety Net:
We offer an immediate escape from weather or overstimulation in our central Bunkhouse Hub, dedicated 10x12 Quiet Room, and the secondary Cliffside Cabin retreat.
Our goal is to create a challenging yet supportive environment where families can learn together while minimizing unnecessary physical and emotional risks.
What ages can participate?
This program is specifically designed for autistic and neurodivergent youth ages 9 to 18. The activities are tailored to this age range to promote skill development and social engagement appropriate for their stage of development. Please refer to our "Is this a fit?" checklist on this page to ensure the physical requirements match your child's needs.
How many people can join per family?
A standard family team includes one parent or guardian and one youth (ages 9–18).
Additional parents, guardians, or youth may join for $150 per person, up to a maximum of 4 individuals per family team.
If you have a unique family dynamic or would like to discuss accommodations, please contact us directly — we’re happy to work through what makes sense.
Do we need any outdoor experience?
Absolutely not. The program is 100% turnkey. We provide all necessary high-quality gear, clear instruction, and constant support. You just need to bring personal clothing and a willingness to learn side-by-side with your youth.
Are meals provided?
Yes, nutritious, hearty meals are provided throughout your stay. Meal preparation is a core part of the shared camp experience, designed to be a low-pressure, cooperative skill-building activity for family teams. We offer flexible indoor dining options in our Basecamp Hub for those sensitive to elements or smoke, and professionally accommodate all allergies and specific dietary needs with advance notice. All cooking gear, dishes, and utensils are provided.
Where do families sleep?
We provide sturdy, all-weather tents with sleeping pads, high-quality sleeping bags, and pillows included. We also have a central bunkhouse (the Basecamp Hub) available for common gathering and two separate quiet spaces (our 10x12 Quiet Room and secondary Cliffside Cabin) should you require an indoor space during the night due to weather or sensory needs.
What do we need to bring?
Very little! We provide all major gear, food, and program materials. You only need to pack personal clothing appropriate for the weather, personal toiletries, any required medications, and perhaps a favorite comfort item. A suggested packing list is available upon registration.
What is the group size?
We limit each weekend to just 3 to 6 family teams. This ensures a low-stimulus social environment, safety, meaningful connections, and personalized attention from our guides.
How do we register or ask questions?
You can register directly on our website through the booking link. If you have further questions, you can contact us via email or phone. As a Federal NPO in the filing process, we provide detailed invoices that are structured for easy submission to OAP (Ontario Autism Program) or other insurance/subsidy programs.
📞 819-422-1222
What if my child has a meltdown or gets overwhelmed?
We plan for this. Our daily rhythm focuses on predictability to minimize anxiety-inducing surprises. Should a moment of overwhelm occur, we have dedicated low-stimulus environments: the 10x12 Quiet Room (acoustically optimized) and the private Cliffside Cabin are available at all times for immediate decompression and regulation.
What is the sensory environment like (bugs, noise, weather)?
We are located in a genuine off-grid wilderness setting near the Ottawa River. This means you may encounter natural noise, bugs (mosquitoes in early summer), and variable weather. Our bunkhouse provides an immediate indoor escape from the elements, and our quiet rooms offer a controlled, low-stimulus environment to recharge in comfort.
Is this a therapy camp or covered by OAP/insurance?
This is an outdoor education and recreation program—not a therapy camp—focused on bonding and skill development. While we cannot guarantee OAP coverage (each family plan is different), our NPO invoices are designed to include the necessary codes and descriptions that families typically use for "social and community participation" or respite funding reimbursements.
Pricing
Founding Season Price: $795 per family
(One parent/guardian + up to two youth)
This weekend is designed to be simple, accessible, and completely turnkey. Your family gets three days of guided adventure — canoeing, navigation, outdoor skills, Mantracker, and Survivor®-style challenges — without needing to bring specialized gear or plan a thing.
Only 3–6 family teams can join each session to keep the experience personal and supportive.
Included Bonuses
To make this weekend as stress-free as possible, your family also gets these extras at no additional cost:
Family Tent + Sleeping Pads Provided
A comfortable setup waiting for you when you arrive. No hauling or buying gear.
All Cooking Gear Supplied
Pots, pans, utensils, plates, bowls, and cutlery — everything you need for group meals.
Full Canoe + Safety Gear Package
Tandem canoes, paddles, PFDs, and dry bags included for your family adventure day.
Printed Leadership Certificates
A meaningful keepsake for both parent and youth.
Access to the Bunkhouse
Used as a weather backup or comfort option when needed.
The Confidence Guarantee
If weather or safety conditions force us to cancel the weekend, you’ll receive a full refund or credit — your choice.
We run a challenging program, but never at the expense of safety or common sense.
Deposit & Cancellation
A $200 deposit holds your family’s spot.
The remaining balance is due 30 days before camp.
Refund Policy
30+ days before camp: full refund (minus the deposit)
15–29 days before camp: 50% refund or full credit
0–14 days before camp: no refund unless we can fill your spot
If we cancel the program, you receive a full refund or credit (your choice).
Map & Directions to the
Cliffside Camp in the Outaouais
Families love that this adventure camp near Ottawa feels remote, while still being easy to reach.
The Off Grid Ark is a wilderness camp in Western Quebec offering a parent youth adventure weekend that combines leadership training, outdoor skills, and a true family wilderness camp experience.