Parent–Youth Adventure Experience
Stronger bonds, better communication - built through shared experience
A 3-day off-grid adventure for one parent and up to two youth — where you learn real outdoor skills together, take on fun challenges, and reconnect away from screens and everyday distractions
Who This Experience Is For
This experience is designed for parents and youth who want to spend real time together — doing something meaningful, slightly challenging, and memorable.
Over three days at The Off Grid Ark, families work side by side learning practical outdoor skills, taking on fun challenges, and reconnecting through shared experience — not lectures or screens.
If you’ve been wishing for a way to strengthen connection and communication through shared experience, this may be a good fit.
This experience is designed for one parent or guardian and up to two youth who want to share a meaningful outdoor adventure together.
Real connection without screens
Time together where you talk, work as a team, and actually experience things side by side.Hands-on outdoor skills
Fire-building, navigation, canoeing basics, teamwork challenges, and more — taught in a supportive, confidence-building environment.A balanced mix of challenge and fun
Not a hardcore survival program, but a guided, family-friendly challenge weekend where everyone contributes.Activities that naturally build confidence
Every activity is designed so youth of different ages can succeed, feel proud, and take the lead.A shared story you’ll talk about for years
Families leave with inside jokes, campfire memories, and a sense of “we did this together.”
This is a parent–youth outdoor experience where families explore, experience new challenges, and grow together in a supportive setting. This is one of the most accessible family outdoor adventures in Quebec — close to Ottawa, but far from distractions.
Core Promise
Tents set up in our wilderness camp during our parent–youth adventure camp at The Off Grid Ark.
The core promise of this time together is simple: when parents and youth step out of daily routines and into shared challenge, connection comes back naturally.
What makes this different isn’t the specific activities — it’s how present you become once you’re out here. Phones stay with you for photos and safety, but during activities they fade into the background. When that happens, conversations come easier, teamwork feels natural, and both parent and youth settle into the moment instead of the screen.
Parents and youth aren’t watching from the sidelines here — they’re side by side. Often, youth pick things up quickly and step into leadership in small, natural ways. That role shift creates respect, partnership, and a kind of connection that rarely happens in everyday life.
And somewhere in those moments, many parents feel a quiet reminder — the kind of gentle Cat’s in the Cradle awareness — that childhood moves fast, and shared time like this matters.
By the time it’s over, parents feel closer to their youth, youth feel more confident in themselves, and everyone leaves with a shared story that stays with them long after the tents come down.
The same calm guidance and side-by-side teaching Les describes is how parents and youth are guided throughout the experience at The Off Grid Ark.
“I just came off of an Eco-Challenge up in Northern Ontario, and thanks to Mike Caldwell, I did way better than I would have done alone.
He pulled me through on the bike, he pulled me through in the bush — his instruction, his guidance… everything about the man was kickass. It was killer.
It was great to be in the bush with him, to learn new skills from somebody who knows the bush well.”
— Les Stroud, Survivorman
Benefits for Parents & Youth
This weekend is designed to bring families closer through shared challenge, teamwork, and real outdoor skills. You’ll both walk away with something meaningful.
For Youth
See their parent in a new light
Out here, parents aren’t rushing, managing, or reminding. You’re learning, laughing, and working through challenges side by side. Many youth will leave thinking, “My parent is actually pretty fun out here.”
Build real confidence
Lighting a fire, steering a canoe, navigating a trail — these aren’t pretend wins. They’re real skills that help youth feel capable, trusted, and proud of themselves.
Lead, decide, and take ownership
Youth aren’t being talked at. They lead parts of activities, make decisions, and help guide the group. Parents support rather than direct — and kids notice the difference.
Create memories that last
The inside jokes, small wins, and shared “we did it” moments stick with youth long after you’re home.
For Parents
Reconnect without distractions
Life moves fast. Screens, schedules, and responsibilities pile up. Out here, things slow down. You get to be present, engaged, and genuinely connected with your youth in a way that’s hard to recreate at home.
See your youth’s strengths in a new environment
You’ll watch your youth problem-solve, take initiative, support others, and shine in ways everyday routines don’t always reveal. Seeing them thrive outdoors can be a powerful moment.
Learn together as equals
For once, you’re not the instructor or the referee. You’re on the same team — learning, trying, and laughing side by side. That shared footing creates a sense of partnership that carries back into everyday life.
A “Cat’s in the Cradle” reminder — in the best way
This isn’t about guilt. Being out here has a way of reminding you how fast these years go — and how good it feels to be fully in them. Most parents leave thinking, “I’m really glad we did this.”
For Both
A shared achievement
By the time it’s over, you feel like a stronger team — not because everything was easy, but because you figured things out together.
A new story for your family
Shared challenges turn into inside jokes, memories, and stories you’ll talk about for years.
A break from screens and routines
Not because of rules, but because you’re busy doing something real. With the forest, campfires, and challenges around you, phones stay in pockets and time together feels effortless.
Everything here is designed to create the kind of shared moments that build confidence, trust, and communication naturally — without forcing it.
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
High Level Itinerary Example
Each day blends outdoor skills, teamwork, and meaningful time together — all at a relaxed, family-friendly pace. This is an example schedule to give you a sense of flow. Activities may be adjusted based on weather, group needs, or energy levels.
Day 1 - Arrival and Foundations
Arrive at The Off Grid Ark and settle into your site
Welcome, orientation, and safety overview
Introduction to outdoor basics through hands-on activities
Working together on simple skills that set the tone for the days ahead
Evening campfire time to relax, connect, and ease into being out here together
Day 2 — Canoeing and Time on the Water
A full, rewarding day focused on working together and building confidence on the water.
Travel together to the canoe launch
Getting comfortable with canoes, gear, and teamwork
On-water learning that emphasizes canoe skills, cooperation, and communication
Paddling as a family team, including carrying and navigating together
Paddle to a nearby island for lunch and swimming (weather-dependent)
Return to The Ark and wind down from a full day outdoors
Day 3 — Navigation + Survivor Challenge Day
A high-energy final day that brings together teamwork, problem-solving, and shared accomplishment.
Morning — Mantracker Navigation Game
A parent-youth twist on a classic Off Grid Ark challenge
Learning to use a map and compass together
Working as a team to reach checkpoints
Balancing strategy, communication, and movement in the forest
All while trying to avoid Mike while he "tracks" you down on his trusty horse Diaz
Afternoon — Survivor®-Style Challenge Finals
A fun, fast-paced series of family-versus-family challenges designed for all ages.
Fire-building and problem-solving challenges
Team puzzles and physical coordination games
Blindfold and trust-based activities
Balance and endurance challenges
Memory Gauntlet — Blind Transfer Edition
All challenges use a points-based system to keep things fair and encouraging across different ages.
Final tally & celebration
Awards ceremony
Certificates presented to each family team
A Note on Flexibility
This schedule is meant to give you a clear picture of what the days feel like, not to lock you into a rigid plan. The focus is always on safety, fun, and meaningful time together — not on checking boxes.
Survivor® Challenge
Survivor® Challenge Day
The Survivor® Challenge is a high-energy finale that brings everything together. It’s designed to give families a fun, friendly way to put teamwork, communication, and problem-solving into action — side by side.
Instead of individual competition, every challenge is completed as a parent–youth team.
Youth get to lead. Parents get to support. And success comes from working together, not from speed or strength alone.
Built Around Teamwork
Each challenge is designed so different ages can contribute in different ways. Some reward strategy, others memory, balance, patience, or communication.
No single family has an advantage. Everyone gets a chance to shine.
Friendly Competition, Real Connection
The scoring system keeps things playful and encouraging, not stressful. Parents often discover their youth excel at certain challenges — and kids love the chance to “carry the team.”
These moments quickly turn into inside jokes, shared laughs, and stories that stick.
A Meaningful Finish
The day wraps up with a simple celebration, recognition, and certificates for each family team. It’s not about winning — it’s about acknowledging how you worked together.
Most families leave feeling proud, connected, and a little surprised by what they accomplished side by side.
What’s Included in This Parent-Youth Adventure?
Everything is fully guided, well-equipped, and designed to be as simple and turnkey as possible. What’s listed below is included — so you can focus on the time together, not the logistics.
Full 3-Day Experience
A complete parent–youth adventure that includes canoeing, navigation, teamwork challenges, and shared time outdoors.
All Meals Provided
Nutritious, hearty meals prepared together as a group.
(Families help with cooking and cleanup — part of the shared experience.)
All pots, pans, cooking tools, plates, bowls, and cutlery are provided.
Please contact us in advance for dietary needs.Tents & Camp Setup Gear
Sturdy group tents provided for each family team.
Sleeping pads included.
(You bring your own sleeping bags and pillows.)Bunkhouse Access
Available for weather events or special needs.
Used as a common space and backup sleeping area.Canoes & Water Safety Gear
Transportation of canoes and gear to and from the Gatineau River.
Tandem canoes, PFDs, paddles, dry bags — everything needed for your time on the water.
All Challenge Materials
Maps, compasses, puzzle boards, ropes, blindfolds, fire-building supplies, scorecards — fully provided.
Guided Outdoor Leadership
Calm, supportive guidance throughout canoeing, navigation, fire-building, and all group challenges.
The focus is on learning side by side, not being tested or judged.Small Group Size
Limited to 3–6 family teams for safety, connection, and personal attention.
Full Access to the Off Grid Ark
Over 160 acres of forests and trails, a central campfire area, picnic tables, clean outhouses, fresh water, and bunkhouse access.
Some families choose this experience not only for connection and adventure, but also to support formal youth programs.
For youth working toward the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze, Silver, or Gold Awards, this Parent–Youth Adventure may be eligible to meet the Award’s Adventurous Journey requirements.
If this applies to your family, we’re happy to talk through how the experience can align with Duke of Edinburgh guidelines and documentation.
The Off Grid Ark is a proud partner of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada.
2026 Camp Dates
Maximum of 6 family teams per experience
Each date below offers the full Parent–Youth Adventure — guided, small-group, and designed for meaningful time together.
Parent/Youth Adventure Weekend #1
July 11–13, 2026
A great early-summer option before schedules fill up and summer gets hectic.
Well suited for first-time families or anyone looking to reset, reconnect, and ease into the experience.Daddy–Daughter Adventure Weekend
July 25–27, 2026
Designed for dads and daughters who want something more meaningful than another busy summer activity.
Expect shared challenges, teamwork, laughs, and moments that tend to stick long after the experience ends.Mid-Week Parent/Youth Camp
August 5–7, 2026 (Tues–Thurs)
The same full experience in a quieter, mid-week format.
Ideal for families with flexible schedules or those looking for a calmer summer rhythm away from peak weekends.Parent/Youth Adventure Weekend #2
August 15–17, 2026
A high-impact “last big summer memory” before school starts.
This weekend gives families a meaningful way to wrap up summer and head into the school year feeling closer.
Looking for a Custom Experience?
In addition to scheduled dates, custom Parent–Youth Adventures are available for individual families or small groups who want to choose their own timing.
Custom experiences are often a good fit if you:
Have scheduling conflicts with listed dates
Want to attend with a specific group of families or friends
Prefer a private or semi-private experience
Are coordinating around school, work, or Duke of Edinburgh timelines
Custom experiences offer the same core program, adapted to your group’s needs and schedule.
If you’re interested, reach out and we’ll explore what makes the most sense 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?
A parent–youth adventure camp is a structured outdoor program where one parent or guardian joins their youth for hands-on activities, teamwork challenges, and skill-building experiences. Instead of dropping kids off, you participate together — learning canoeing, navigation, campcraft, and communication as a team.
Our program is designed to help families reconnect, build confidence, and spend time outdoors without screens or distractions. Everything is guided, beginner-friendly, and done at a relaxed, family pace.
Is it safe?
The outdoors always carries some level of risk, and no program can be 100% risk-free — but we take safety seriously and build it into every part of the weekend.
The camp is led by me, a retired helicopter paramedic with decades of emergency and wilderness experience. Activities are designed to be ground-level, beginner-friendly, and done at a relaxed, family pace. Parents remain with their youth at all times, and canoeing takes place on calm, flatwater conditions.
We also have first-aid gear on site, reliable cell service across 95% of the property, and we’re only 20 minutes from Wakefield Hospital.
Our goal is to create a challenging yet supportive environment where families can learn together while minimizing unnecessary risks.
What ages can participate?
The recommended age range is 9–16.
If your youth is 7–8 and already comfortable outdoors or active, contact me to confirm fit.
How many people can join per family?
Each family team includes one parent/guardian and up to two youth. This keeps the challenges fair and the group size small and personal.
Do we need any outdoor experience?
No experience is needed. Everything — canoeing, navigation, fire-building, challenges — is taught step by step. This weekend is designed to be accessible, even for first-time campers.
Are meals provided?
Yes. All meals are included.
Families help with preparation and cleanup as part of the teamwork experience. All cooking tools, pots, pans, plates, and cutlery are provided.
Dietary sensitivities and restrictions can be discussed in advance. Participants can bring their own snacks and flavoured drinks.
Where do families sleep?
Each parent–youth team is provided with a tent and sleeping pads.
You bring your own sleeping bags and pillows.
The bunkhouse is available as a backup option in case of weather or special needs.
What do we need to bring?
A full packing list will be sent after registration. In general:
- sleeping bags + pillows
- clothing for all weather
- sturdy shoes
- toiletries
- reusable water bottles
We provide tents, pads, meals, cooking gear, canoes, and all activity equipment.
What is the group size?
Small by design: 3–6 family teams.
This keeps the weekend safe, supportive, and personal.
How do we register or ask questions?
You can reserve your spot with a $200 deposit or pay $795 in full.
If you’d like to talk first, you can call or text me anytime between 9am–7pm. If I’m at the sawmill or out on the lake and miss the call, just send a quick text and I’ll get back to you.
📞 819-422-1222
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).
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).
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.
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.