OUR MISSION
Provide healthful, rewarding, maturing summer experiences;
Nurture boys' ability and enjoyment of lifelong outdoor sports;
Empower boys to challenge and extend their limits;
Foster a lifelong personal connection to the natural world;
Instill character, self-reliance, teamwork, comradeship, & respect;
Prepare young men for leadership roles in the outdoors,
and for the leadership roles of adult life.
​​​
OUR HISTORY
Founded in 1914 on Source Lake by Rochester educators, Camp Pathfinder has been a wilderness outpost in Algonquin Park for over a century. Steeped in tradition, the camp has been guided by dedicated alumni, with longtime camper and guide Will Hopkins continuing its legacy today.
​
From its historic island base, Pathfinder offers an immersive summer experience for boys, combining in-camp activities with an acclaimed canoe tripping program that explores the backcountry of Ontario and Quebec. Beyond summer, the camp welcomes coed school, outdoor, and family groups, staying true to its mission of fostering adventure, leadership, and a deep connection to the natural world.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Pathfinder’s home island at Source Lake lies in the headwaters of the Madawaska River, traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg,– the original inhabitants and stewards of this land. Today, this land remains home to many Indigenous people from across Turtle Island.
To join with these First Peoples in calling this place our home, we resolve to treat the land, plants, animals, stories and first peoples with honor and respect. We are grateful for the opportunity to live and grow within this beautiful territory.
Pathfinder honors all Indigenous peoples, who have inhabited the lands we live in and travel since time immemorial. We recognize the contributions and importance of Indigenous peoples, and we are committed to make real the promise of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation in our Pathfinder community.​
MEET OUR TEAM
Pathfinder’s staff are mentors, role models, and caretakers, living alongside campers and sharing every aspect of camp life. With a 1:2 staff-to-camper ratio, they provide expert guidance in activities and wilderness trips. Most are former campers, carrying on Pathfinder’s traditions of teamwork, service, respect for nature, and personal growth.
SUMMER CAMP
Camp Pathfinder is an unforgettable summer adventure for boys ages 7-15, combining exciting in-camp activities with legendary backcountry canoe trips. From our historic island base in Algonquin Park, campers learn outdoor skills, build confidence, and form lifelong friendships while paddling through Ontario’s pristine lakes and rivers.
​
When not on trip, boys enjoy a fun, active in-camp program featuring swimming, paddling, sports, crafts, and campfire camaraderie. They stay in classic canvas tents with their cabinmates and share hearty, family-style meals in the lodge. Every day at Pathfinder is filled with adventure, challenge, and laughter—all in a supportive, tech-free environment where boys can thrive.
OTHER PROGRAMS
During the Spring and Fall months, Pathfinder Island plays host to professional development course, school groups, weddings, and gatherings of all kinds!
Our private island location is the perfect place to immerse students in nature based learning, say "I do", or escape the city life for a bit by attending one of our Family Camps.