This summer, learn basic camping skills at an event near you. Hosted by Parks Canada, in partnership with MEC.
Parks Canada and MEC have been working together for over 10 years. As part of its 100th anniversary celebrations in 2011, Parks Canada (in partnership with MEC) launched the first Learn-to Camp events – and they’re still going strong.
In 2023, join us for Learn-to Camp overnight events and in-store workshops at an MEC store near you.
Learn-to Camp overnight events
Learn-to Camp overnight experiences introduce you and your camping party to the basics of camping in Canada’s beautiful natural settings. Overnight experiences happen at safe and fun locations; and vary in offer based on the site. You’ll learn camping skills like how to set up a tent, light up a campfire or cook outdoors.
Parks Canada will offer Learn-to Camp overnight events across the country, in partnership with MEC – join us! If you’ve never been camping before (or want to brush up on some skills), these events are a fantastic introduction.
From June to September, they’ll be happening in parks and campgrounds around the Metro Vancouver area, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, Ottawa, Montreal and Québec City.
Registration for overnight events is coordinated by Parks Canada. Visit the link below to learn more about these events and to register.
Learn-to Camp in-store workshops
This year, in partnership with MEC, Parks Canada will be offering in-store workshops to get you ready for the camping season. Come by MEC stores for in-store workshops, hosted by Parks Canada Learn-to Camp staff – they’re a quick 45-minute lesson on camping basics. They’re also totally free (awesome).
From June to mid-August, you can catch workshops at MEC stores in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.
In-store workshop topics:
Camping 101: Discover how easy and enjoyable camping can be! Parks Canada’s Learn-to Camp team will guide you on packing necessities for a front-country camping experience. This family-friendly program will teach you everything you need to pack so you will feel prepared for the trip ahead. Topics include camping basics, how to plan your trip, what to bring, camp cooking, and wildlife safety.
Animal Aware: An amazing part of spending time in nature is seeing wildlife in their natural habitat. Parks Canada’s Learn-to Camp team will provide tips on how to safely view animals while keeping a respectful distance.
Find a workshop near you
MEC Vancouver (111 E 2nd Ave)
Animal Aware workshops:
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Thursday, July 6 from 5:00pm to 6:00pm
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Thursday, July 20 from 5:00pm to 6:00pm
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Thursday, August 3 from 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Camping 101 workshops:
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Thursday, July 6 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, July 20 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, August 3 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
MEC North Vancouver (212 Brooksbank Ave)
Animal Aware workshops:
- Thursday, August 3 from 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Camping 101 workshops:
- Thursday, August 3 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
MEC Edmonton Downtown (11904 104th Ave)
Camping 101 workshops:
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Thursday, June 29 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, July 13 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, July 27 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, August 10 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
MEC Edmonton South Commons (1624 99 St)
Camping 101 workshops:
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Thursday, June 22 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, July 6 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, July 20 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, August 3 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Thursday, August 17 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
MEC Toronto (300 Queen St West)
Camping 101 workshops:
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Sunday, June 4 from 12:30pm to 2:00pm
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Friday, June 16 from 12:30pm to 2:00pm
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Saturday, August 5 from 12:30pm to 2:00pm
MEC Ottawa (366 Richmond Road)
Camping 101 workshops:
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Thursday, June 8 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
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Thursday, June 15 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
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Thursday, June 22 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
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Thursday, June 29 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
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Thursday, July 6 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
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Thursday, July 13 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm
MEC Halifax (1550 Granville Street)
Stay tuned for more details on workshops at MEC Halifax.
Parks Canada is also offering a variety of Learn-to Camp activities – without having to stay overnight! Visit our pop-up campsites at municipal parks, beaches, libraries and special events near you, and participate in activities that introduce you to camping. At home activities are also available for those who want to start exploring now.
From June to September, they’ll be happening in parks around the Metro Vancouver area, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, Ottawa, Montreal, Québec City and Halifax.
