Camping, Canoes, and Camaraderie
A Summer Camp Full of Métis Spirit
Nine Métis students gathered at Awenda Provincial Park near Penetanguishene, Ontario for the 2025 Summer Break Camp, a five-day experience from July 17 to 21 filled with workshops that deepened their connection to Métis culture and way of life.
Penetanguishene holds deep significance for the Métis, who arrived in the area following the Drummond Island Migration of 1828 and 1829. Many families had earlier roots in Michilimackinac, migrating through St. Joseph and Drummond Islands before finding a home on the shores of Georgian Bay. This meaningful location provided an ideal setting for Métis students to connect with their peers on the land.
“One of the camp’s main goals is to empower youth to bring their experiences and learning back to their families and communities, inspiring others through what they’ve gained,” says Scott Carpenter, MNO Culture and Way of Life Projects Manager.
On the first day, students touched down at Awenda Provincial Park in the late afternoon where they set up the communal tent and the sleeping quarters they’d be using for the next four days. They took part in icebreaker activities, reviewed safety guidelines, and received a warm welcome with an opening prayer from MNO Clear Waters Métis Council Senator Mark Rath.
On day two, students took to the water to learn about canoeing, canoe safety, and on-water communication, then set out in a contemporary version of the Montreal canoe. In the afternoon, they returned to camp for an introduction session with Region 7 PCMNO Councillor and local Captain of the Hunt Greg Garratt on fishing that covered safety, equipment, and tackle. Initially the plan was to also do fish cleaning but weather presented a challenge and the filleting was moved to Day 3. To fill in the time, the youth each created their very own, one of a kind, traditional voyageur necklace. Staff worked behind the scenes and were able to secure the elusive fish for a fresh fish fry for dinner!
On day three, students gathered at Rotary Park in Penetanguishene for a morning fishing session, where the goal of catching five fish was met! Later, the students set out on a hike to enjoy the beauty of the Awenda wilderness and focused on the importance of outdoor safety, making sure that youth are prepared for going outdoors in their home communities. They returned to camp for the rescheduled fish filleting workshop! Special thanks to Lepage Fishery for donating 10 large lake trout for students and staff to practice their fish filleting skills.
On the final day, students spent the morning refining their knot-tying skills, learning traditional dances, and practicing outdoor survival skills. The afternoon featured a friendly fishing competition, and the busy day wrapped up with beading. Greg Garratt returned to the camp in the afternoon with a generous donation of wild game including samplers of moose and venison steak and sausages and grilled beaver. Campers gathered for a special closing ceremony that evening, where they reflected on the past four days, participated in a closing prayer, and celebrated the youth who have graduated from the program while welcoming the three newest camp members with a sash presentation from Senator Mark Rath.
“We do our best to offer unique, culturally relevant opportunities to our students so they leave with a new sense of pride and confidence in their Métis heritage,” says André Nault, Youth Culture Camp Project Coordinator.
The students departed Awenda with lasting memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the knowledge and traditions shared throughout the experience.
Maarsii to this year’s students and staff who made the weekend unforgettable!