Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Chikopi

Camp Chikopi is a traditional overnight summer camp for boys in Ontario, Canada, and the questions below address the most common topics families ask when considering camp.

What Makes Camp Chikopi Different?

Camp Chikopi is the oldest continuously operating all-sports boys camp in the world, founded in 1920. We are family-owned and operated and have welcomed multiple generations of campers from the same families.

Chikopi is known for a traditional camp environment, a strong sports and activity program, and a culture that emphasizes effort, respect, responsibility, and teamwork. Camp life is structured, active, and community-focused. Many campers return year after year, and many former campers later return as counselors, staff, and volunteers, continuing the Chikopi tradition.

How Safe Is Camp Chikopi?

Camper safety is a top priority at Camp Chikopi. All activities operate under established safety procedures, including sports, swimming, waterfront use, and daily routines.

Supervision is continuous, and staff are trained to respond to a wide range of situations. Camp facilities and operations are inspected annually by relevant government departments. In addition, Camp Chikopi’s program is inspected every three summers by the Ontario Camping Association.

Who Supervises the Campers?

Campers are supervised by trained counselors and activity staff responsible for safety, wellbeing, and daily programming.

All supervising staff members are 18 years of age or older and complete background checks prior to arrival. Many staff members are returning counselors or former campers and have a strong understanding of camp life. Staff receive training in supervision, safety, and camper support.

How Are Cabins Organized?

Cabins typically house 10–12 campers with 2–3 counselors assigned to each cabin. Cabin groups are organized primarily by age and are designed to provide structure, support, and positive social development.

Counselors are available to campers throughout the day and night and play an active role in daily camp life.

What Ages Attend Camp Chikopi?

Camp Chikopi is for boys ages 7 to 17.

In cabins and morning classes, campers are grouped by age to support appropriate supervision and social development. During afternoon activities, evening programs, and meals, campers are mixed across age groups, cultures, and nationalities to encourage broader friendships and a full camp experience.

What Kind of Camper Community Does Camp Chikopi Have?

Camp Chikopi has a strong international camper community. Each summer we welcome boys from Canada, the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom, Japan, Korea, Mexico, and other countries.

This international mix is one of the most valued parts of camp life. It helps campers build confidence, broaden their perspective, and form friendships across cultures.

What Is the Food Like?

Food is an important part of daily life at Camp Chikopi. All meals are prepared from scratch in the camp kitchen. We do not use microwaves or pre-prepared meals.

Meals are hearty, nutritious, and designed to meet the energy needs of active boys. Campers are seated at mixed tables with boys of different ages and nationalities. Counselors are assigned to each table to serve, supervise, and oversee the meal. Portions are generous, and campers leave meals well fed.

Can Dietary Needs and Food Allergies Be Accommodated?

Yes. Camp Chikopi accommodates a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free, lactose-intolerant, vegetarian, and pork-free diets.

Camp Chikopi operates as a nut-free facility for safety reasons. Families must notify the camp office by email at least four weeks prior to arrival so appropriate arrangements can be made.

How Does Camp Chikopi Handle Homesickness?

Homesickness is a normal part of childhood development and is handled with experience and care.

Counselors are trained to recognize early signs and provide reassurance and support. A structured daily routine, active programming, and strong cabin relationships help most campers adjust quickly.

How Do Parents Communicate With Their Child During Camp?

Camp Chikopi is a technology-free camp. Campers do not have access to personal electronic devices during their stay.

Parents and campers communicate through letters, email updates, and approved camp communication channels. Families may contact the camp office directly if there is an urgent matter.

How Long Has Camp Chikopi Been Operating?

Camp Chikopi was founded in 1920 and will celebrate its 106th anniversary in 2026. The camp has remained committed to quality programming and youth development for more than a century.

Learn More or Apply

Where do you hire/recruit staff?
At Chikopi, our team is a true reflection of our rich traditions and values. To uphold a century of cherished practices, we take pride in the fact that a significant portion of our staff members once walked in the very same shoes as our campers. They have experienced Chikopi's magic firsthand and are deeply committed to preserving the spirit of our camp.
To ensure the safety and well-being of every camper, we maintain a rigorous screening process for all staff members and volunteers. This process includes thorough checks of personal and work references, in-depth interviews, and comprehensive background checks. Our goal is to assemble a dedicated and trustworthy team that can carry on the Chikopi legacy while creating a safe and nurturing environment for all campers.
What are your camper to staff ratios?
Chikopi takes pride in upholding a remarkable tradition in the world of overnight summer camps by maintaining a remarkable 3:1 camper-to-staff ratio. This commitment to a low ratio means that your child will benefit from continuous supervision, ensuring their safety and guidance during every step of their camp journey.
We prioritize safety above all else, especially during aquatic activities, where certified lifeguards are present at all times. This ensures that every swim, dive, and watersport is conducted with the highest level of care and expertise.
For off-camp excursions, such as our exhilarating road biking adventures, we take no chances. Certified First Aiders are always part of the team. This means that no matter where the boys go or what activities they embark on, there's always a safety net in place, giving both campers and parents peace of mind.
What is your program like?
At Chikopi, our program is not just about having fun; it's a platform for promoting healthy lifestyle choices that yield tangible, real-life benefits. We believe in the power of a well-rounded camp experience, where campers not only enjoy exciting activities but also grow and develop in multiple ways.
Our overarching goal is to nurture young leaders, allowing them to discover their potential and take on roles of responsibility within the camp community. Through this, they learn what it truly means to be part of a thriving and supportive community, where they contribute to the collective spirit and well-being of their peers.
Moreover, our program is designed to boost self-esteem, instilling a strong sense of confidence in each camper. We believe in equipping our campers with the skills needed to forge genuine friendships, fostering connections that last a lifetime.
Respect is a core value we impart, teaching campers to honor and appreciate the differences in others. Through our program, campers not only hear about respect but actively experience and practice it.
Ultimately, our program goes beyond the surface, aiming to enrich campers' lives with lessons and experiences that stay with them long after their time at Chikopi. We are dedicated to instilling these values, fostering personal growth, and preparing campers for a bright and promising future.
What happens when it rains?
Camp Chikopi is truly fortunate to have a selection of spacious activity buildings, including the Barn, Game Room, Library, and Main House. These versatile spaces come to the rescue on rainy days, ensuring that our campers stay happy and active.
During inclement weather, we offer a range of activities to keep everyone engaged. From exciting games like indoor volleyball and badminton to fitness sessions, yoga, and high-energy tae-bo workouts, there's something for everyone. For those seeking a quieter escape, our library is stocked with a variety of books, and we have a selection of board games and card games for hours of fun. If friendly competition is more your style, we've got ping pong and foosball tables ready for action.
Moreover, our activity buildings provide a comfortable respite from the sun when the weather gets too hot. They offer excellent shade and ensure that campers can continue having a great time even in challenging weather conditions. Camp Chikopi is all about keeping our campers active, engaged, and comfortable, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
Will my son be in the same cabin as his best friend?
At Chikopi, we have established a cabin assignment policy that prioritizes the comfort and preferences of both campers and their families. As long as both families mutually request it and the boys fall within the age range of 12 to 18 months apart, we aim to accommodate these requests. However, in cases where the age gap is larger than 18 months, the older camper may be assigned to the younger cabin.
Before making cabin requests, we kindly request that parents communicate with each other. This collaborative approach ensures that both parties are in agreement regarding cabin assignments. Once it is confirmed that both families are on the same page, the next step is to involve the campers themselves in the decision-making process. It is a significant choice that many parents face, as they want their child to be with a familiar face while also fostering the opportunity to make new friends.
It is important to note that, at Chikopi, our close-knit community ensures that campers quickly become acquainted with one another. Our wide range of activities provides ample opportunities for campers to build friendships and connections. Additionally, the informal gatherings on the porch before every meal create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for everyone to socialize.
Does my son pick his activities?
Our approach is simple yet effective: we believe in making the most of every moment. That is why the majority of a camper's day is carefully planned out, ensuring he receives the utmost benefit from his time at Chikopi. By offering a wide variety of sports and activities, we expose each camper to as many athletic experiences as possible during their time at Chikopi.
We recognize that a proactive schedule is key. This exposure helps campers discover new passions, develop skills, and stay active and engaged. Our goal is to create an environment where every camper is inspired to try something new, challenge themselves, and experience the joy of participating in various sports. At Chikopi, we believe that these experiences are not just recreational but also instrumental in shaping character, building confidence, and fostering a lifelong love for physical activity.

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