NSGA Jr Guides School
Where fun and adventure meet!
For over fifty years, the Nova Scotia Junior Guide School has been helping youth ages 12–16 build outdoor skills, leadership, and a lifelong love of nature. Created by the Nova Scotia Guides Association, the school has grown into one of the province’s most respected resident camps.
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.
Dates for the 2026 season will be announced in late spring of 2026. At that time, up-to-date information about the upcoming season can be found at the NSGA Junior Guides School Facebook page.
A Program that Grows with You
The Junior Guide School is structured to give campers new challenges and opportunities each year:
First Year: Campers focus on essential outdoor skills, safety, and teamwork.
Second Year: Participants build on their knowledge with an off-site day trip and more advanced activities.
Third Year: The highlight is a multi-day canoeing and camping expedition in Kejimkujik National Park, where campers paddle, portage, and practice outdoor living skills. (An alternate wilderness program is available for those who prefer not to take part in the extended trip.)
Fourth Year: Returning campers step into leadership roles as counselors. Completing this year earns the distinction of becoming a certified Junior Guide.
A Week at Camp
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.
What to Expect
- Every camper receives a free Junior Guide School t-shirt. Hats and other items are available for purchase.
- Campers bring their own tents, bedding, and outdoor gear. A detailed packing list is provided each year to help families prepare.
- Safety is always a priority, from supervised water activities to clear guidelines about prohibited items.
- Campers are expected to participate with a positive attitude and respect for others.
Supporting Junior Guides
The Junior Guide School operates on a not-for-profit basis with the support of the Nova Scotia Guides Association (facilities) and the Nova Scotia Guides Service (instructors). The school’s budget is sustained through registration fees, grants, and donations.
Each year, some campers rely on sponsorship to make their Junior Guide School experience possible. If you or your organization would like to sponsor a youth or support the program with a donation of funds or equipment, please contact our administration team. Sponsors are recognized in program materials and invited to participate in opening or closing ceremonies.
Looking Ahead
Registration for the next Junior Guide School opens in the spring, with camp dates typically held in early July. While registration is currently closed, we invite you to explore what makes the Junior Guide School such a special experience and consider joining us in the future.