Frequently
Asked
Questions
🗓 Joining the Camp Experience
When did registration open?
Registration for all 2025 programs began on January 4, 2025 at 9:00 am (PST). Registration opened simultaneously for everyone.
When do camps start filling up?
More and more kids are coming to Qwanoes every year — and we’re so thankful!
We’ve added many spots over the years, but some camps still fill up quickly and may have waiting lists. Click here to see current availability.
📅 Register early to avoid disappointment — especially for Youth Camp, which tends to fill up the fastest.
💙 If a camp has a waiting list, we’ll do everything possible to find a spot. If one opens up, we’ll even call families the same day before camp begins.
When will I know if my child is registered?
Once you’ve successfully submitted a registration, you’ll receive an automatic email confirmation indicating that your child is either registered or waitlisted.
Do you have to be a Christian to attend Camp Qwanoes?
No! Everyone is welcome. We are a Christian camp, and we incorporate biblical principles throughout our programs and activities. But whether your child attends church regularly or not, they are more than welcome here.
My child has never been to church. Will they feel out of place?
Not at all. Qwanoes serves over 6,000 campers from a wide variety of backgrounds every year. Church experience isn’t required. We can’t wait to welcome your child!
What does it mean to be on a "Waiting List"?
Joining a waiting list means your camper’s spot is not currently available, but you’re in line if one opens up.
There is no cost to be placed on a waiting list
We’ll contact you as soon as a spot becomes available
Being on the list ensures you’ll receive next summer’s brochure in the mail and an email with info as soon as it’s ready
We truly want your child at Qwanoes and will do all we can to make that happen. Thanks for your patience!
What does it mean when a camp has "Limited Space"?
There are still a few spots open, but some activity clubs may already be full and taking waitlists.
What does it mean when a camp is "Closed"?
This means the camp is no longer accepting registrations—all spots and waitlists are full.
🏕 Cabin Life & Camper Essentials
What are the accommodations like?
Campers stay in cabins nestled in the forest within one of our seven villages, grouped by age. Cabins do not have electricity, so flashlights are encouraged. Washrooms with hot showers are located centrally.
Are camps co-ed or single-gender?
All Qwanoes camps are co-ed, with separate male and female cabin villages.
Cabin counselors are the same gender as the campers
Males are not permitted in female villages and vice versa
Can my child be placed with a friend?
We will do our best to honour cabinmate requests when:
Campers are in the same camp session
Ages are typically no more than 12 months apart
Both campers request each other
Requests are made at least two weeks before camp
Many campers come without requests and still make amazing new friends!
What should my child bring and NOT bring to camp?
Click here to go to our dedicated packing list page.
🚐 Drop-Off, Pick-Up & Transportation
Lower Mainland and Island campers:
Click here to go to our dedicated “Getting To Camp” page. This page contains all drop-off, pick-up, and transportation details.
🧭 Camp Activities & Requirements
What kinds of activities are offered?
Campers choose from over 75 activity options! All gear and safety equipment are provided. Activities range from water sports to archery, music, mountain biking, and more. Click here to learn more about all our activities.
Swim Test Requirement
All campers attending Juniors, Junior High, Youth, and SeaQuest camps are required to take a basic swim test to participate in most waterfront activities.
The test includes:
- Swimming 20 metres from the dock and back
Treading water for 3 minutes
Campers are not forced to take the test, and if they don’t pass, they may try again the next day.
✅ Once a camper passes the test, they won’t need to take it again in future years — we keep it on record!
Minimum Age for Some Activities
-
Wakeboarding/Kneeboarding – 8+
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Challenge Course – 8+
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Archery – 8+
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Mountain Boarding – 8+
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Guitar – 8+
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Captain Q Screamer, Sky Station L3 & L4, Elevator (Top Platform) – 12+
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Mountain Biking – 12+
🍽 Food Service & Dietary Needs
What are meals like?
Campers enjoy hearty, home-style meals served family-style on our Promenade or Sky Decks, with stunning ocean views. We offer:
Vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options
Nut-free kitchen (though some store items may contain traces)
Unfortunately, we do not offer a full vegan option
Please contact the registration team ahead of time to discuss dietary needs so we can accommodate as best as possible.
❤️ Health, Safety & Behaviour
What safety measures are in place?
On-site health care team: RNs, First Aid Attendants, Health Care Leader, Support Staff
AED-equipped health centre
Lifeguards certified by the National Lifeguard Service (NLS)
Local hospital (Cowichan District) – under 20 minutes away
Urgent care in Chemainus – 15 minutes away
Ambulance and local fire responder services nearby
Staff undergo criminal record checks and extensive pre-summer training
Qwanoes is accredited by the BC Camping Association
What happens if my child behaves inappropriately?
Qwanoes reserves the right to send campers home without refund for inappropriate behaviour. The safety and well-being of all guests is our top priority.
✉ Mail, Email & Phone Use
Can I send mail or email to my child?
Yes! Send a message to your camper using our online form.
To send mail to your camper:
Mailing Address
Camp Qwanoes
(camper’s name)
Box 250
Crofton, BC V0R 1R0
Mail takes 5–7 business days within BC.
Can campers call home?
There are public phones available for camper use when they’re not in activities. Calls are not permitted during late evenings. If your child calls with a concern, please call the camp office so we can assist.
Emergency contact: 250-246-3014
💵 Tuck Shop & Spending Money
How much money should I send?
If your child already purchased the Triple Pack or isn’t interested in Summer Essentials: $30–$60
If they want to buy shirts, the video package, or other gear: $50–$75
Parents may add money anytime via the Qwanoes Online Registration Portal.
Camp Store Locations: Tuck Shop, Beach Betty’s, Ice Cream Island, Club Coco, Dockside Cantina, and Shave Ice Palace.
Can campers call home?
There are public phones available for camper use when they’re not in activities. Calls are not permitted during late evenings. If your child calls with a concern, please call the camp office so we can assist.
Emergency contact: 250-246-3014
📜 Policies & Miscellaneous
What is your cancellation policy?
Overnight Camps:
More than 8 weeks before camp: All but $85 refundable
Less than 8 weeks before camp: Only the $225 deposit is non-refundable
(Retreats follow a 4-week rule with varying deposit amounts)
Please note:
No refunds once camp begins
No fee adjustments for late arrivals or early departures
No substitutions allowed
What is your age eligibility policy?
Campers must turn the minimum age by December 31, 2025, and not exceed the maximum age by the start of camp. For special requests, please contact our Registrar.
When is the final payment due?
Final payment is due on the first day of camp.
You can check your balance or make a payment anytime through the Qwanoes Online Registration Portal.
Can I get a payment receipt?
Yes! Download it via the Qwanoes Online Registration Portal, or email registrar@qwanoes.ca. You may qualify for a childcare tax benefit if your child is under 14.
Can I rent Qwanoes for a group?
Yes, Qwanoes is open year-round!
From school trips and youth retreats to church gatherings and community events, we’re here for it all. We offer accommodations, meals, activities, and more.
➡️ Explore our Rentals page for full details, and feel free to reach out to groups@qwanoes.ca with any questions.
Do you sell used gear?
Yes, we offer bikes and other equipment for sale each year. Visit this page or call us for details.
What’s your privacy policy?
We value your privacy and follow the CSA Model Code for handling personal information. Your info is used only for ministry purposes and can be withdrawn at any time (though this may affect our ability to serve you).
🔒 View our full Privacy Policy for details.
❓Still Have Questions?
Reach out to us!
We’re here to help ensure your camper’s experience is smooth and amazing.
📧 Email: registrar@qwanoes.ca
📞 Phone: 250-246-3014
🌐 Online: Qwanoes Online Registration Portal
