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Located on 133 acres of pristine wilderness along the picturesque shores of the beautiful Howe Sound, thousands of campers have passed through the gates of Camp Potlatch over the past 80 years. Sandy beaches and unspoiled hiking territory create an idyllic environment for campers to explore and play.
Experience the adventure of a lifetime at our one-of-a kind wilderness camp site. Reach new heights on a natural rock wall, hit a bullseye at the archery range, paddle the sea in a canoe and create an artistic masterpiece in the arts and crafts room. Our wide variety of age appropriate activities targets the interest of all campers. Accessible only by boat, Camp Potlatch offers a unique opportunity for campers to connect with nature, build self-confidence and make new friends in a stunning ocean front environment.
Camp Potlatch is proud to offer:
- One week sessions jam-packed with incredible programming
- Transportation by boat provided from Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey
- 1:3 staff to camper ratio
- 24 hour supervision
- Overnight out trip adventures by land and sea
- 80 years of experience, history, and tradition
Photos
Summer Camp
Registration for summer programs opens March 3rd at 10:00am!
Welcoming over 1,000 campers each summer, Camp Potlatch has become a home-away-from-home for many. Whether you’re keen to reach new heights on a natural rock wall, hit a bullseye at the archery range, or search for marine life along 1.5km of pristine coastal shoreline, Camp Potlatch has something for every type of adventurer! Our overnight summer programs combine traditional camp activities with a focus on creating a sense of community, increasing self-confidence, and building resiliency in each and every one of our campers.
Main Camp
Ignite your Camp Potlatch spirit in our incredible Main Camp program!
For children between the ages 7-14, Camp Potlatch’s week-long Main Camp gives campers the opportunity to explore a variety of traditional camp activities while living in a positive and supportive cabin community. All activities are fun, age appropriate, and closely supervised by our enthusiastic and highly trained staff team. In addition to a wide variety of camp activities, each camper in the Main Camp program participates in a 24 hour off-site excursion. Travelling to one of our many wilderness camp sites either by land or sea, campers sleep under the stars in this once in a lifetime out-trip experience.
So many activities to try!
- Stand-up Paddle Boarding
- Fishing
- Archery
- Hiking
- Arts and Crafts
- Kayaking
- Rock Climbing
- The list goes on and on!
Our program design encourages returning campers to continually progress their skill level in each of the activities we offer. While your first summer might be the first time you paddle a canoe, by your third or fourth, you’ll be learning advanced paddling techniques and rescues! Whatever your interest, the sky’s the limit at Potlatch!
Leadership Programs
Camp Potlatch’s wilderness leadership camps transports participants ‘across the creek’ and away from the familiar comforts of Main Camp, to create an environment that inspires individual and group growth. All leadership programs focus on the development of hard and soft skills, group problem-solving, and acquiring the necessary training required to be an effective camp leader. Our Leadership Camps inspire campers to be the best people they can be and to recognize the value they have to the world. Keep the tradition alive this summer!
Leadership Out Trip (Ages 13-14)
For campers keen to learn what it takes to thrive in the woods on a multi-day expedition, check out Camp Potlatch’s Leadership Out-Trip camp (LOT)! This program is physically demanding and designed specifically for campers prepared to spend an extended period of time in remote wilderness destinations. LOT1 is a one-week camp, including a 2 night hiking trip in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Campers spend 2 days at Potlatch preparing for trip and honing the necessary skills to safely navigate your route. Prepare to experience our BC landscape at its best!
Explore pristine alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and striking mountain scenery. Highlights include Garibaldi Lake, Cheakamus Lake, and Panorama Ridge. You might even see snow in the summer! The LOT program is a great way to kick start your Leadership Camp Journey, or for Main Camp campers who are looking for a new challenge. Prepare to experience our BC landscape at its best!
Leadership Camp 1 (Ages 15)
Leadership Camp 1 (LC1) is a 10 day program for teens who are looking to further develop their camping and leadership skills. Many campers are building on skills they learned through their years in Main Camp, though campers new to Camp Potlatch have started their camping journey with Leadership Camp 1. This program is designed to set campers on the path to becoming a future camp leader!
The LC1 Program has a strong focus on extended out trips, with sites reached by both land (hiking) and sea (canoeing), where campers work as a team to set up camp, prepare their meals and appreciate the natural environment around them! Time is split between classic Main Camp activities and sleeping on trip/under the stars- going on at least two 2 night Out-trips. Due to the focus on extended wilderness camping skills, it is important that all campers arrive at Camp Potlatch with the proper gear and a sense of adventure to ensure a successful two weeks in the woods.
Leadership Camp 2 (Ages 16)
Leadership Camp 2 (LC2) is the final step in Camp Potlatch’s leadership program. This is an intensive 3-week counsellor-in-training program for teenagers who are motivated to become awesome camp staff. LC2 is a co-ed program that continues outdoor leadership and out-tripping skills development, with additional focus on camper care, program planning and building a tool box with tips and tricks to become an extraordinary camp leader. Campers also partake in a 3-4 day “cabin placement” in main camp, as a leader-in-training, where they will have the opportunity to shadow qualified staff members and learn first hand what it’s like to be a camp leader.
Campers go on at least 2 multi-night out-trips by land (hiking) and sea (canoeing) and must be keen about spending time unplugged from home & electronics. This program is for mature teens who have previous outdoor camping experience, and who have the capacity and drive to take on the challenges of personal and group achievement and are committed to being a role model to their peers and Main Camp campers. Participants will be given the opportunity to develop effective communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Campers who embark in this program often become friends for life, and go on to work many future summers at Camp Potlatch. Many of our Camp Potlatch staff passed through the Leadership program themselves!
Leadership Trips (September - June)
We are excited to offer Leadership Day trips throughout the year to help campers stay connected to nature, camp, and each other. This program is designed for campers who have completed any of our Leadership Programs during the summer and are interested in expanding on their wilderness and leadership skills locally throughout in the fall, winter, and spring.
Previous trips have included a snowy trek up Dog Mountain, hikes up Pump Peak and around Bunzten lake, and an overnight canoe trip starting from Camp Potlatch. Trips are typically offered by-monthly and details and registration info will be emailed out to parents/guardians of previous Leadership Campers. Please inquire if you have any questions about upcoming trips.
2025 Session Dates and Rates (Prices include taxes, subsidies available)
Main Camp Sessions
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
Session 1 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 1 - 6
$820
Session 2 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 6 - 11
$820
Session 3 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 15 - 20
$820
Session 4 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 20 - 25
$820
Session 5 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 29 - Aug 3
$820
Session 6 – Ages 7-14
Coed
Aug 3 - 8
$820
Session 7 – Ages 7-14
Coed
Aug 12 - 17
$820
Session 8 – Ages 7-14
Coed
Aug 17 - 22
$820
Leadership Out Trip
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
LOT A – Ages 13-15
Girls
Aug 12 - 17
$840
LOT B – Ages 13-15
Boys
Aug 17 - 22
$840
Leadership Camp 1
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
LC 1 – Ages 15
Girls
July 1 - 11
$1020
LC 2 – Ages 15
Boys
July 15 - 25
$1020
LC 3 – Ages 15
Girls
July 29 - Aug 8
$1020
LC 4A – Ages 15
Boys
Aug 12 - 22
$1020
LC 4B – Ages 15
Girls
Aug 12 - 22
$1020
Leadership Camp 2
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
LC 2-1 – Ages 16
Coed
July 1 - 20
$1300
LC 2-2 – Ages 16
Coed
July 20 - Aug 8
$1300
Registration
Registration is now open for summer programs!
Ways to Register
We believe every child who wants to go to camp should be able to go. Please contact our registration office for information on low barrier financial assistance at 604.324.2267
Camp Fees
The true cost for one week at Camp Potlatch is $1,250 per camper. For decades, we’ve offered a lower “regular rate” because of our fundraising efforts. Those “regular rates” are listed with the session dates. As always, we ask you to pay what you can (including the full, true cost if you’re able).
If you need more help with camp fees, please call us.
2025 Session Dates and Rates (Prices include taxes, subsidies available)
Main Camp Sessions
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
Session 1 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 1 - 6
$820
Session 2 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 6 - 11
$820
Session 3 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 15 - 20
$820
Session 4 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 20 - 25
$820
Session 5 – Ages 7-14
Coed
July 29 - Aug 3
$820
Session 6 – Ages 7-14
Coed
Aug 3 - 8
$820
Session 7 – Ages 7-14
Coed
Aug 12 - 17
$820
Session 8 – Ages 7-14
Coed
Aug 17 - 22
$820
Leadership Out Trip
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
LOT A – Ages 13-15
Girls
Aug 12 - 17
$840
LOT B – Ages 13-15
Boys
Aug 17 - 22
$840
Leadership Camp 1
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
LC 1 – Ages 15
Girls
July 1 - 11
$1020
LC 2 – Ages 15
Boys
July 15 - 25
$1020
LC 3 – Ages 15
Girls
July 29 - Aug 8
$1020
LC 4A – Ages 15
Boys
Aug 12 - 22
$1020
LC 4B – Ages 15
Girls
Aug 12 - 22
$1020
Leadership Camp 2
Session
Gender
Dates
Rates
LC 2-1 – Ages 16
Coed
July 1 - 20
$1300
LC 2-2 – Ages 16
Coed
July 20 - Aug 8
$1300
Registration Forms
Registration Form
Camper Forms
Leadership Package
Parent Resources
Camp Potlatch Brochure
Parent Handbook
Camp Potlatch FAQs
Outdoor Centre Rentals
Camp Potlatch Outdoor Centre is the perfect location to host your group! From outdoor-experiential education programs, to corporate teambuilding retreats and family reunions, our experienced staff team are here to design and tailor your camp experience to meet the aims of your trip.
The site, nestled amongst old growth forest, with spectacular views of Anvil Island from our sandy beach, immediately takes you far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Less than an hour from Horseshoe Bay feels like a whole other world!
Our custom packages include everything. We don’t charge extra for any activities or instruction. Ever. The excitement really starts at Horseshoe Bay where you’ll meet the water taxi, organized by Camp and included in your package, making the drive to camp one of the shortest in the lower mainland!
All of our traditional Camp-based programming can be incorporated into your schedule, and includes:
- Canoeing
- Rock Climbing (on our real rock wall!)
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Archery
- Team Building Challenges
- Overnight camping trips
- And so much more…
For more information on our Outdoor Centre programs, please download the Outdoor Centre Handbook!
Outdoor Centre Handbook
Don’t miss out on your chance to experience Camp Potlatch’s Outdoor Centre by booking now to reserve your spot!
For more information, please contact Outdoor Centre Coordinator at adventure@bgcbc.ca or call our Vancouver office 604.324.CAMP(2267).
Contact Us
Camp Potlatch is owned and operated by BGC South Coast BC.
City Office (Year Round)
7595 Victoria Drive
Vancouver, BC V5P 3Z6
Phone number (year round): 604-324-CAMP(2267)
Phone number (on-site): 604-343-4367
On-Site (May-October)
PO Box 130
Britannia Beach, BC V0N 1J0
Marc Couture, Camp Director
camp@bgcbc.caMarc has been the Director of Camp Potlatch since 2009, having previously overseen operations at accredited summer camps in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia. Camping is a part of who Marc is and he has over 20 years of experience to back it up. Marc’s life has drastically changed during his time as Camp Director – he started out a lone wolf in a new camp but quickly got married, purchased a home and started a family. You might catch a glimpse of Marc with both his little guys, Russell and Charles, around Potlatch this summer!
Will Crighton, Camp Coordinator
wcrighton@bgcbc.caWill’s passion for outdoor education started from a young age. This has given him a strong belief in the great benefits it has for young people. After gaining his degree in Physical Geography, he took his passion for outdoor education worldwide. In the last decade of Will’s career, he has led camps in the U.K. and Australia, coordinated tourism operations in Finland and New Zealand, guided backcountry canoeing and hiking trips in the U.S.A., and even managed volunteering projects in the rainforests of Costa Rica. Now his adventures have brought him to settle in Canada, and in 2023, he joined the Camp Potlatch family! When Will isn’t at camp you can find him enjoying all the outdoor activities B.C. has to offer, including canoeing, skiing, hiking, and camping!
Juliana Benoit, Summer Coordinator
summer@bgcbc.caJuliana started working at Camp in 2012 and has worked in a variety of different roles – from arts and crafts instructor to cabin leader to program director. Juliana followed her passion for the arts to Halifax, where she graduated with a BFA in 2019. In 2023 started her role as the Summer Coordinator. Potlatch holds a special place in her heart and she is always excited to help all campers embark on an unforgettable summer adventure! Outside of Camp, Juliana loves travelling, reading, and making pottery.
Rachel Battie, Outdoor Centre Coordinator
adventure@bgcbc.caRachel has been working at BGC since 2018. She has worked in the Clubs Stream at multiple sites in various roles over the years. In 2023, she joined the Camp Potlatch Team as the Outdoor Centre Coordinator, and now oversees the rental group bookings for the Spring and Fall. Outside of Camp, Rachel enjoys playing soccer, hiking, and doing puzzles.
Julie Le, Registrar
campreg@bgcbc.caJulie has been with BGC since 2022, happily helping with the registration process at the Camp Potlatch city office. She is available to assist campers and families with registration, subsidies, and providing resources to prepare for a great camp experience. Her hobbies include kayaking, ice skating, and cooking. Happy camping!
Allison Martens, Assistant Registrar
register@bgcbc.caAllison has been with BGC since late 2023 bringing previous experience, knowledge and excitement having worked for a non-profit organization focused on sailing, she is passionate about fostering joyful experiences for kids. Allison assists with club and camp registrations, financial aid and providing further support wherever needed! Outside of work you can find her spending time with her dog, hiking with friends and family or having fun at the beach.
Working at Camp
Interested in working at Camp in 2025? Apply today!
We’re excited to return to site and look forward to welcoming staff and campers back for upcoming spring and summer programs. Please check our Staff Application Guide for information about available positions, and directions for applying. If you have any questions, please connect with Will Crighton.
Staff Application Guide
New Applicants
Returning Applicants
FAQ
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