Jun 23 - Jun 29, 2025
2,449
1,599
British Columbia
Outdoor Discovery on Vancouver Island With Your Grandchild
Program No. 2677RJ
Kayak, canoe, zip line, rock climb and camp your way through the wooded forests of Vancouver Island with your grandchild, learning all kinds of new skills along the way.
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Age 9 - 14
ROOMING OPTION PRICING
The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
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| DATES | ||||
Jun 23 - Jun 29, 2025
| 2,449 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| 2,449 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| 3,199 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| |
Jun 29 - Jul 5, 2025
2,449 1,599 | ||||
Jun 29 - Jul 5, 2025
| 2,449 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| 2,449 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| 3,199 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| |
Filling Fast! Jul 24 - Jul 30, 20252,449 1,599 | ||||
Jul 24 - Jul 30, 2025
| 2,449 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| 2,449 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| 3,199 / Adult
1,599 / Child
| |
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
7 days
6 nights
17 meals
6B 5L 6D
1
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Campbell River, BC
2
Outdoor Adventures, Canoeing, Swimming
Campbell River, BC
3
High Ropes, Zipline, Kayaking, Orienteering
Campbell River, BC
4
Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Canoe Field Trip Prep
Campbell River, BC
5
Nature Walk, Overnight Canoe Field Trip, Camping
Campbell River, BC
6
Canoeing, Outdoor Activities
Campbell River, BC
7
Program Concludes
Campbell River, BC
At a Glance
Bring your junior explorers on an active adventure in the mossy forests of Vancouver Island. Together you’ll learn new skills as you play kayak soccer, navigate with a compass and head out on an overnight canoe trip. Climb a rock bluff, rappel from a cliff, swing like Tarzan on a zip line and learn about teamwork on a log and cable ropes course suspended high above the ground. Swim on the sandy beach, tell campfire stories and learn all about the plants and animals of Vancouver Island on a nature walk with an expert. This fresh air adventure will bring you closer together — and closer to nature!
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven terrain.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Learn survival techniques, camping basics, outdoor cooking, orienteering and wilderness etiquette throughout the week, including during an optional camping trip to Rainbow Island.
- Climb a rock bluff, rappel from a cliff, swing from a zip line and navigate a ropes course under expert supervision and with a harness.
- Explore a sphagnum bog, home of the carnivorous sundew plant, and spend time on the water kayaking and canoeing.
General Notes
Program is for grandchildren ages 9-14. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices will be unavailable.
Suggested Reading List
(6 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Outdoor Discovery on Vancouver Island With Your Grandchild
Program Number: 2677
There's an Owl in my Shower
In this novel for ages 8-12, Newbery Award-winning author and illustrator Jean Craighead George tells the story of how one unusual spotted owl makes his way into the home -- and hearts -- of a family of loggers in the Pacific Northwest.
Touching Spirit Bear
This young adult novel follows Cole, an abused and abusive teen, who chooses banishment to an Alaskan island over incarceration. But for Cole to reform, it takes an encounter with the white Spirit Bear of First Nation legends.
The Last Great Sea, A Voyage Through the Human and Natural History of the North Pacific Ocean
A wide-ranging conservation history of British Columbia and the North Pacific Ocean. Glavin lives in the Gulf Islands, where he writes frequently about fisheries and environmental issues facing the region.
British Columbia Seashore Life: A Folding Pocket Guide to Familiar Animals & Plants
British Columbia Seashore Life is the perfect pocket-sized, folding guide for the beachcomber, and features over 140 beautiful illustrations of familiar and unique seashore plants and animals, including birds, marine mammals, fish, and crustaceans. Laminated for durability, this lightweight, folding guide is an excellent source of portable information and is ideal for field use.
The Raven Steals the Light
A classic collection of 10 Haida myths and legends with accompanying black and white etchings by Vancouver artist Bill Reid. These stories capture the storytelling traditions of the Haida.
Following the Last Wild Wolves
McAllister shares his experiences and inferences from studying two undisturbed wolf packs after 20 years of observing them while living on the coast of British Columbia. Check out McAllister's collection of photographs as well
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
7 days
6 nights
What's Included
17 meals (
6B, 5L, 6D
)
3 expert-led lectures
8 expert-led field trips
9 hands-on experiences
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
D
Stay:
Strathcona Park Lodge
Activity Note
Lodge check-in from 4:00 p.m. Strathcona Park Lodge is on a hill where trails and paths are gravel and dirt.
Afternoon:
After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. There will be some time to unpack, unwind, relax, and informally meet fellow Road Scholars in the chalet building.
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
Orientation. Welcome to Strathcona Park Lodge and Outdoor Education Centre, where we are committed to helping children and adults of all ages appreciate the wilderness and learn more about themselves and others. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar Grandparent program. Grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren at all times. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Minors are never to be left unsupervised. Educational content will be provided by our knowledge outdoor instructors. Meals at Strathcona are hearty and nutritious and reflect our commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Strathcona is a center for outdoor adventure and experiential education. Activities are selected to challenge, inspire, encourage creativity and reflection while having fun. Next, we will have a presentation on the history of Strathcona and the area, then explore the lodge. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Outdoor Adventures, Canoeing, Swimming
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Strathcona Park Lodge
Activity Note
Getting in/out of canoes; paddling. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain. All equipment provided for canoeing.
Breakfast:
At the lodge.
Morning:
We’ll take part in fun activities for grandchildren and grandparents to promote group development, trust, problem-solving initiatives, and challenges. We’ll also introduce the “Challenge by Choice” philosophy.
Lunch:
At the lodge.
Afternoon:
We’ll walk to the lake and learn about canoe and paddle strokes as well as safety and comfort in the water.
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to go for a swim along the sandy beach, enjoy spending time with fellow Road Scholars, or just relax.
Day
3
High Ropes, Zipline, Kayaking, Orienteering
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Strathcona Park Lodge
Activity Note
Participating in high ropes and zipline activities. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain.
Breakfast:
At the lodge.
Morning:
We’ll continue developing our skills together on the high ropes and zipline. These are powerful and challenging activities, built from logs, cables, and ropes suspended above ground up to a height of forty feet. Participants will be secured at all times with harnesses and wear helmets. Good communication and support is central in these activities.
Lunch:
At the lodge.
Afternoon:
Next, it’s kayak soccer, a unique way to get comfortable in the boats while having fun. Play soccer like never before!
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
Orienteering is navigating. We’ll learn master map and compass skills and map reading while navigating the Strathcona orienteering course.
Day
4
Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Canoe Field Trip Prep
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Strathcona Park Lodge
Activity Note
Engaging in kayaking activities. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain.
Breakfast:
At the lodge.
Morning:
At the lodge lake, we’ll learn the basics of kayaking including forward, reverse, sweep strokes, and maybe some more games.
Lunch:
At the lodge.
Afternoon:
We will learn the basics of climbing and gain opportunities for personal growth and change. Instructors will start us off on the rock wall. We’ll then head up to one of our climbing bluffs. Climbing can be a significant mental challenge for many participants as it requires a great deal of trust in themselves. Success shows that perceived limitations are often self-imposed.
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
We’ll pack and prepare for our overnight canoe field trip tomorrow, focusing on food, gear, and personal/group items. Note: Camping out overnight is an elective choice. Those who prefer to return to the lodge to sleep tomorrow night are welcome to do so.
Day
5
Nature Walk, Overnight Canoe Field Trip, Camping
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Strathcona Park Lodge
Activity Note
Getting in/out of canoes; paddling about 5 miles approximately 6 hours throughout the day (approximately 3 hours each way). Walking up to 2 miles; uneven beach terrain. For camping outdoors, bring warm under-clothing, personal water bottles.
Breakfast:
At the lodge.
Morning:
We’ll set out on a nature walk to the Sundew Bog and learn about the flora and fauna of coastal British Columbia, especially the species unique to Vancouver Island. We’ll gain an increased appreciate for nature, environmental education, and play some games before returning to the lodge.
Lunch:
At the lodge.
Afternoon:
We will get into canoes and paddle to Rainbow Island for an overnight field trip that will provide an enjoyable wilderness experience with focus on group strength. It will also offer a great bonding experience for grandparents and kids. We’ll have expert instruction on minimum impact camping, natural history, navigation, outdoor cooking, and other skills. Experienced instructors will provide supervision of kids and adults who camp outside. Equipment will be provided by the lodge: sleeping bags (ensolite or Therm-a-rest); unbreakable cups, bowls, and spoons; water bottles; ziploc bags/garbage bags for waterproofing; water-resistant paddling jacket. Those who wish can bring their own gear.
Dinner:
At overnight campsite, cooking over campfire.
Evening:
We’ll take part in team-building activities and games. Note: Camping out overnight is an elective choice. Those who prefer to return to the lodge to sleep tomorrow are welcome to do so (paddling canoes or motorboat driven by staff).
Day
6
Canoeing, Outdoor Activities
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Strathcona Park Lodge
Activity Note
Those who chose to sleep at the lodge the night before will return to the campsite (paddling canoes or via motorboat driven by our staff). Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, steep terrain.
Breakfast:
At the campsite.
Morning:
We will paddle our canoes back to the lodge, unpack, and enjoy hot showers.
Lunch:
At the lodge.
Afternoon:
We’ll set out to develop our wilderness skills and enjoy group games for both grandparents and kids. Challenges will include group problem solving while we play.
Dinner:
At the lodge. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
We’ll gather around a campfire (weather permitting) for closing ceremonies on the final evening with our grandkids/grandparents and new friends. Feel free to bring musical instruments, talents, stories, jokes, and games to share with everyone. Prepare for departure in the morning.
Day
7
Program Concludes
Location:
Campbell River, BC
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Lodge check-out 10:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the lodge. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
17 Meals
6 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
6 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Jun 23, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
- Jun 23, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
- Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025
- Jul 24, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 12 Reviews
Sort By:
The Vancouver Island Grandparent trip was exceptional. My granddaughter stated it best on our way home when she said: It was a magical trip in and enchanted forest. She was not ready to go home.
— Review left August 22, 2024
Gorgeous lake location at outdoor leadership camp with your grandchild doing lots of fun adventures --together. Prepare to rough it some, to "live on the edge" as you choose (we are still young) and to help out with adventures and tasks, all in the beautiful BC outdoors. Expect weather, bring layers and good attitudes and cheer, and prepare to enjoy a week making memories with your special grandchild(ren).
— Review left August 15, 2024
Enjoy a spectacularly beautiful location while having tremendous fun with your grandchild. Opportunities for the young kids and grown-up kids to play and challenge themselves in the outdoors. Healthy and delicious food at the lodge.
— Review left August 14, 2024
wonderful GP/GC program in the rain forest wilderness of Vancouver Island, BC that exposes GCs to many new activities such as canoeing, rock climbing, high ropes crossing, and zip lining, among others
— Review left August 3, 2024
The program at the Strathcona Lodge was fun, engaging and very well organized. We were busy all the time with outdoor activities. It is a beautiful place, accomodations basic but functional. The food was outstanding. The activities are challenging and push the comfort zone. It is a bit of a challenge to get there so be prepared for planes, a ferry, shuttles, busses, depending on your choice of travel.
— Review left August 5, 2023
The program described is accurate and plenty active and challenging. My 10 yr old granddaughter loved every single part of it, even though we had some rain a couple days! We learned about and became “Happy Warriors “!! Extremely memorable. And such a bonding experience if you have an open attitude and participate as fully as possible!
— Review left July 27, 2023
I you have an adventurous grandchild who loves to be active in the outdoors, this is a super program for him or her.
— Review left July 5, 2023
A wonderful experience for a grandparent and grandchild who love the outdoors to share! My granddaughter has now expressed an interest in learning more of the skills that would allow her to educate others to safely enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, rock-climbing, camping, etc. This program is a great confidence builder for kids.
— Review left July 1, 2023
This program cannot be beat for gorgeous scenery; testing your self imposed limits and challenging adventure seeking grandchildren!
— Review left July 16, 2022
I highly recommend Outdoor Discovery with Your Grandchild on Vancouver Island! This was my third time doing the program with three of my grandchildren and each time it was challenging and fun. I particularly enjoy the camaraderie that develops with the other grandparents and grandchildren. The leaders are great! They encourage going beyond our limits but are not judgmental of anyone who chooses not to engage in a particular activity. I really like this program because all of the activities take place in one location (no bus travel). The Strathcona Park Lodge is right on the edge of a beautiful lake with a beach and a gorgeous view of snow-capped mountains. Meals are buffet-style with lots of hearty, healthy food. Tables are available both inside a dining room or outside on the deck with the spectacular view of the lake and mountains. There are beautiful wildflowers throughout the property. If you like the outdoors and taking on physical challenges in a safe, supportive environment, you will enjoy this program!
— Review left July 12, 2022
What an adventure it was to participate in this very active program at Strathcona Park Lodge! We had excellent, well trained counselors who taught and monitored safety, inspired trust and encouraged without any pressure. My grandson had so much fun he didn’t want to come home and he loved seeing me stretch myself to try some of the fun physical activities. The food was good, fresh, abundant and well-designed to accommodate everyone’s diet needs. It’s a gorgeous location but a bit remote and challenging to get to. Must be worth it as one set of grandparents was there for the fourth time!
— Review left July 11, 2022
I was impressed wth all of the staff here! They were all helpful, friendly, knowledgeable, and capable.
— Review left August 15, 2019
