The NSGA Junior Guides School has been in operation for over 50 years and has evolved into one of the best youth camps in Nova Scotia. The school runs the first full week of July each year, and is open to youth ages 12-16.
Today, the program takes place at the NSGA’s 30-acre campground in Queens County, complete with forests, trails, a beach on Lake Christopher, and a community hall. Each summer, campers come together for a week of learning, adventure, and friendships that last a lifetime.
Each day is packed with a balance of learning and fun. Past years have included:
- Skill sessions such as canoeing, archery, rifle safety, map and compass, survival, and trapping.
- Outdoor living lessons like bannock making, knot tying, fishing, and blood trail tracking.
- Recreation and tradition with swimming, campfires, fun evening events, and the closing-day pie auction.
Campers gain confidence, independence, and lasting memories while enjoying time in the outdoors under the guidance of experienced instructors.
All participants are encouraged to come for a total of four years. Each year the skills the campers learn are more complex, and after the third year participants may come back as camp counselors. Following the fourth year the participants are offered the chance to attend the Registered Guide Course for free and become a Junior Guide. The Junior Guides School consists of volunteers working over 4,300 hours a year to run such a successful school.
We welcome volunteers to participate in a wide variety of ways, including fundraising, administration, assistance with workshops or providing demonstrations, help with events/activities, and as overnight chaperones. We welcome volunteers without a set time commitment – come for a week, a day, or even just an hour!
If you are interested in volunteering, or would like to receive a notification when registration opens, please reach out to nsjrguides@gmail.com
