Understanding ORCC Summer Camp Pricing

What Goes Into the Cost of Our Camp

Every year, we look forward to welcoming new and returning campers to the Ottawa River Canoe Club’s summer programs. We know how important it is for families to find the right fit—something active, exciting, and safe, where kids come home each day a little tired, a little sun-kissed, and a little more confident.

This year, we heard from some families who noted that pricing was a concern. We understand. Raising kids is expensive, and there are many options out there when it comes to summer camps. So we wanted to take a moment to share a bit more about what goes into our camp pricing and why we believe it reflects both the value and the responsibility of the programs we offer.

More Than Just a Camp

ORCC’s summer camps aren’t your typical day camps. Our programs are water-based and built around paddling—kayaking, canoeing, dragon boating, and more. These activities offer a unique and thrilling experience, but they also come with greater logistical and safety needs.

We maintain small group ratios—no more than 1:10 for older campers and 1:6 for our youngest—so every child gets the attention they need on and off the water. Our coaches are certified, experienced, and trained in both instruction and water safety. Add to that the high insurance premiums required for water sports, and it becomes clear why our pricing may differ from more general camps.

In Line With Our Peers

When compared to other camps offering similar water-based programming in the region, ORCC’s pricing is very much in line. We regularly review our rates to ensure they remain fair and competitive while still supporting the level of care and instruction families have come to expect from us.

Supporting a Larger Mission

What many people may not know is that ORCC is more than just a summer camp provider. We’re a community paddling club that runs programming year-round, including initiatives like our Para and Special Olympics programs. These programs are subsidized and supported in part by the revenue from our summer camps, allowing us to serve a broader range of paddlers and make the river accessible to more people.

So when you register for an ORCC summer camp, you’re not just signing up for a week (or more!) of great activities—you’re helping support inclusive, community-based programming that makes a real difference.

We’re Here to Talk

If cost is a barrier, we want to help where we can. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we may be able to point you toward community resources or funding options.

Thank you for considering us this summer. We can’t wait to see your kids on the water!

— The ORCC Team