Polaris Expedition

Polaris Expedition is a seven day, six night advanced outdoor adventure camp which extends beyond all other Camp Fircom programming. Expedition campers will take the challenge to the next level on a paddling and hiking out-trip to lakes and beaches around Gambier Island! This week will involve off-site camping for an extended period of time, with a focus on the unique environmental history of the Howe Sound, outdoor guiding skills, and increasing self-confidence, Polaris Expedition campers will come away with the tools, inspiration, and meaningful relationships necessary to overcome challenges and lead their peers.

Polaris Expedition is a camp experience geared for teens with outdoor adventure experience and strong paddling skills. After completing Polaris Expedition, participants will be well-prepared to apply for CIT or Camp Counsellor positions at Fircom (age dependant), or pursue other options farther afield. This program is open to teens with an interest in enhancing the development of their leadership and paddling skills. Participants will also have lessons about the native plants and animals on Gambier.

Why go on an expedition-style camp?

Unlike sports camp, community day programs, or the traditional sleep-away summer camp, an expedition-style camp fully immerses youth in a new experience. Getting outside and pushing the boundaries of their comfort zone, teens can begin to explore their personal strengths and areas for growth in an environment supported by competent and trained staff – as well as other teens who are also experiencing something new and exciting right alongside them! This is the ideal environment to encourage teens to become more independent, compassionate, skilled, confident, and collaborative, which are the best things we can hope our youth to be.

PICK UP & DROP OFF

Checking In/Out

All campers must be signed in & out by their legal guardian, unless we have received written permission in advance.

Boat Departures

Water taxi times will be available in advance of the 2023 Summer Camp season.

Our passenger-only water taxis depart from the public dock in Horseshoe Bay.

Accommodation

While at Camp Fircom, Polaris campers stay in Sibley Tents, which are large canvas tents that fit 6 to 8 people comfortably and have foam mattresses and space for luggage. These tents are a great way to prepare for the out-trip, where Polaris campers will stay in 3 or 4-person tents. Sleeping arrangements are all-gendered, so campers can expect to share a tent with fellow campers of all genders, gender identities, and gender expressions. This change represents a shift towards making camp a more welcoming and inclusive environment. In order for campers to maintain privacy when dressing, we will continue to have covered changing stations next to Sibley tents and private stalls in all of our washroom facilities.

Camp Counsellors sleep next to the campers in their own one-person tents.

Unanswered questions?

Check out our FAQ section or email us at info@fircom.ca