CanDO Adaptive Learn to Camp
July 10–12, 2026 @ Gatineau park
Join us for our first-ever Adaptive Learn to Camp!
The CanDO Society is launching CanDO Adaptive Learn to Camp, a disabled-led camping experience delivered in partnership with the National Capital Commission at the newly-built accessible mini-chalets at Philippe Lake campground in Gatineau Park.
Whether you're new to camping or just want to build confidence and make new friends — this weekend is for you. From accommodation to food, transportation, and adaptive equipment, we've got you covered. This supportive, confidence-building weekend introduces accessible camping skills for beginners and returning campers alike. A limited number of accessible overnight spots are available in the three mini-chalets, with potential for additional overnight tenting spots and daytime participation to broaden community access.
The weekend will also include exploring Philippe Lake’s accessible features and a guided ecological activity with the Friends of Gatineau Park. Participants will leave with practical skills, stronger peer connections, and greater confidence to continue camping and outdoor recreation.
Expression of Interest form is now live — spaces are limited!
Event Details
Dates: July 10–12, 2026 (Rain dates: July 17–19)
Who: Adults (18+) with mobility-related disabilities
Cost: Low cost to participants, sliding scale.
Location: Philippe Lake Campground, Gatineau Park
This program will be held on the traditional unceded territory of the Anishinabe Algonquin people, who are the stewards of this land since time immemorial.
What's Included
▶ Accessible overnight accommodations in mini-chalets and tents
▶ Cooking skills and meals
▶ Trail exploration and outdoor activities
▶ Campfire experience
▶ Beach access with adaptive equipment
▶ Guided ecological activity with Friends of Gatineau Park
▶ Transportation support & peer connections
About the Accessible Chalets
The event takes place at the newly-built accessible mini-chalets at Philippe Lake Campground. D11, D12, E90 & E92 are low-barrier chalets, and D21 is Universally Accessible with an attached accessible bathroom. The mini-chalets have one bedroom sleeping up to 4 people — participants staying in the mini-chalets must share sleeping quarters. Tent camping may also be available.
Philippe Lake Campground map
Important Booking Info: Reservations for the summer season are now open! The low-barrier chalets (D11, D12, E90 & E92) can be booked online. To book chalet D21 (universally accessible with attached bathroom), call Gatineau Park directly: 1-866-456-3016.
Book the low-barrier chalets online on the NCC website
📸 Check out our Instagram review reel from this winter for all the measurements for D11 & D12.
Want to Help?
Our goal is to deliver this event at low cost to participants. If you are a business who can help, or an individual who wants to volunteer, we'd love to hear from you! candosocietyontario@gmail.com
This event is hosted by Canadian Disabled Outdoor Society, in partnership with National Capital Commission and we welcome sponsorship opportunities and collaborations of all kinds!