Build a Stronger Relationship With Your Teen By Doing Something Together
Connection happens more naturally when parents and youth work side-by-side, not face-to-face—so this experience is built around shared outdoor challenges.
Designed for parents and youth who are doing fine—but want something deeper.
Who This Experience Is For
This experience is for parents and youth who care about their relationship and believe it can keep growing, even as everyday life changes.
As kids get older, conversations get shorter.
Schedules fill up. Priorities changes.
Time together still happens—but often side-by-side on screens or moving between activities.
This experience is for families who are doing well, but want to spend more real time together, doing something meaningful, perhaps challenging, and memorable.
This experience is a good fit if:
You miss doing things together
Not because anything is wrong, but because shared activities naturally get replaced by busy schedules and individual routines.You’ve noticed connection happens more easily while doing something
Whether it’s building, navigating, or figuring something out together—talk flows better when there’s a shared task.You value confidence, teamwork, and mutual respect
You like the idea of learning side-by-side, letting roles shift, and seeing your child take the lead at times.You want a shared experience you’ll keep coming back to
Something that becomes a reference point—“remember when we…” long after the weekend ends.
This experience is intentionally designed to feel supportive, accessible, and meaningful—without pressure or overcomplication.
It’s simply a different setting to spend real time together—and let connection grow naturally.
Tents set up in our wilderness camp during our parent–youth adventure camp at The Off Grid Ark.
Core Promise
The core promise of this experience is simple: when parents and youth step out of daily routines and into shared challenge, connection happens more naturally.
What makes this experience different isn’t the specific activities, it’s how families show up once they’re out here. Phones stay available for photos and safety, but day-to-day distractions fade into the background. When that happens, conversation flows more easily, teamwork feels natural, and attention shifts back to the moment.
Parents and youth aren’t watching from the sidelines, they’re participating side by side. Youth often pick things up quickly and step into leadership in small, unforced ways. That shift creates respect, partnership, and a different kind of interaction than everyday life allows.
This experience is intentionally designed to create those conditions—shared focus, shared effort, and shared challenge—so connection can grow without pressure or forcing anything.
High Level Itinerary Example
Each day blends outdoor skills, teamwork, and meaningful time together at a relaxed, family-friendly pace. This example schedule is meant to give you a feel for how the experience unfolds. Activities may shift slightly based on weather, group needs, or energy levels.
Day 1 - Arrival and Foundations
The first day is about settling in, getting comfortable, and easing into the experience together.
Arrive at The Off Grid Ark and settle into your campsite
Welcome, orientation, and safety overview
Hands-on introduction to basic outdoor skills
Simple team-based activities that set a supportive, cooperative tone
Evening campfire time to relax, connect, and unwind together
Day 2 — Canoeing and Time on the Water
Day two is a full but rewarding day focused on teamwork, confidence, shared accomplishment and fun on the water.
Travel together to the canoe launch
Getting comfortable with canoes, gear, and paddling as a team
On-water learning that emphasizes cooperation and communication
Paddling together as a family, including carrying and navigating canoes
Paddle to a nearby island for lunch and swimming (weather permitting)
Return to The Ark and wind down from a day spent 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 map and compass together
Working as a team to navigate forest checkpoints
Balancing strategy, communication, and movement
All while trying to avoid Mike and his trusty horse, Diaz
Afternoon — Survivor®-Style Challenge Finals
A fun, fast-paced series of family-versus-family challenges designed for all ages.
A series of family-versus-family challenges designed to be encouraging and accessible for all ages
Fire-building and problem-solving tasks
Team puzzles and coordination games
Trust-based and balance challenges
A lighthearted points system to keep things fun and fair
Final celebration and wrap-up
Certificates presented to each family team
A Note on Flexibility
This itinerary is meant to give you an example of the experience—not to lock you into a rigid schedule. The focus is always on safety, shared effort, and meaningful time together, rather than rushing or checking boxes.
Benefits for Parents & Youth
TThis experience is designed to bring families closer through shared challenge, teamwork, and time spent side by side. Most families leave with more than memories—they leave with a different way of relating to each other.
For Youth
See your parent differently
Out here, parents aren’t managing schedules or issuing reminders. They’re learning, laughing, and working through challenges alongside you. Many youth leave with a new appreciation for their parent as a teammate.Build real confidence
Lighting a fire, steering a canoe, navigating a trail—these are real skills. Success comes from effort and teamwork, helping youth feel capable, trusted, and proud of what they can do.Lead and take ownership
Youth aren’t being talked at. They make decisions, guide parts of activities, and step into leadership in natural ways—while parents support rather than direct.
For Parents
Reconnect without distractions
Away from screens and daily pressures, time slows down. You’re present, engaged, and focused on your youth in a way that’s hard to recreate at home.See your youth’s strengths more clearly
In a new setting, many youth show confidence, problem-solving, and initiative that everyday routines don’t always reveal. Watching that unfold can be a powerful moment.
Learn together on equal footing
You’re not the instructor or referee. You’re on the same team—trying, learning, and figuring things out together. That shared footing often carries back into daily life.
For Both
A shared sense of accomplishment
By the end of the weekend, families feel like a stronger team—not because everything was easy, but because they worked through challenges together.A shared story to carry forward
The experiences, small wins, and moments of teamwork turn into stories you’ll revisit long after the weekend ends.A natural break from screens and routines
Not because of strict rules, but because there’s something better to be doing. With real challenges and shared focus, 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 guidance feels like 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
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.
All cooking gear, dishes, and utensils are provided.
(Dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.)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 as a backup space for weather, special needs, or common gathering.
Canoes & Water Safety Gear
All canoes, paddles, PFDs, dry bags, and transportation are fully provided and guided.
All Challenge Materials
Maps, compasses, puzzle boards, ropes, blindfolds, fire-building supplies, scorecards — fully provided.
Guided Outdoor Leadership
Calm, supportive guidance throughout all activities.
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 forest and trails, campfire areas, picnic tables, clean outhouses, fresh water, and shared spaces.
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.
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.
A Note for Families Participating in Duke of Edinburgh
Some families choose this experience not only for connection and adventure, but also to support formal youth programs.
For youth working toward Bronze, Silver, or Gold levels of the The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada, this Parent–Youth Adventure may be eligible to meet 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.
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).
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.