Nestled in the “rain shadow” of the Olympic Mountains, between Shaw and Lopez islands, Canoe Island enjoys a sunny, mild climate common to the San Juan Islands. Whales, dolphins, seals, and sea birds are frequent sightings and the island’s shores are home to bald eagles, great blue herons, sea stars, and river otter.

Our mission is to give children a wonderful camp experience through outdoor activities, the arts, the natural world and the language and culture of France, while living in a positive nurturing camp environment.

4:1 camper:counselor ratio
With only 4 campers per tipi you will enjoy close camaraderie with friends your age and a French-speaking counselor.  And with only 45 campers per session, you will get to know everyone in camp in just a few days.  Campers come from 20 states and more than 5 countries.  The Camp Directors have more than 30 years of experience running some of the Northwest’s most respected camp programs. Certified, CPR-trained lifeguards supervise all swimming and boating activities. Counselors are at least 18, have had at least one year of college. Registered nurses oversee all aspects of camp health, and our professional chefs serve home-made, nutritious meals with a French flair.

Stay on a private island
Enjoy a heated swimming pool, tennis court, two miles of trails, a French and English library, two teaching kitchens, game room with foosball and table tennis, and a grass field for outdoor games and sports.

French at your level
Mornings begin with French language class at 5 levels from beginning to advanced with no more than 10 campers per class so individual needs are easily addressed. French is used all day but not every minute and campers can choose what language they prefer to use.  Those wanting more of an immersion experience should choose Session 3.

“My daughter learned much more French than in the 3 years (5th - 7th grade) here. Thanks for getting her into a level that challenged her.” – Kristina Fayad, mother of 2011 camper from Jordan.

SUMMER SESSIONS
Every session includes all the favorite activities: fencing, archery, kayaking, sailing, art, theater, cooking, snorkeling, rock climbing, swimming and sports.  Each session has special activities related to its theme.

Session 1 Les Voyageurs   
Sunday, June 20-Friday, July 9         Ages 10-16
Sailing, kayaking and hiking adventures to neighboring islands. July 4th parade in Friday Harbor, wilderness and survival skills as well as your favorite camp activities.

Session 2 La Révolution Française    
Sunday, July 11 – Friday July 23    Ages 9-16
Storm the barricades (with water balloons and demand your rights as you reenact the revolution.  Find out how the American Revolution helped spur the French uprising.  Fencing, art and theater will bring the 18th century to life.

Session 3 Le Monde Francophone   
Sunday, July 25-August 13    Ages 10-16
Polynesia, Africa, the Caribbean, Louisiana and Acadia and Asia -- explore the food nd ulture of other places where French is spoken.  Participate in Olympics in your favorite sports and represent a country in the World’s Fair.

Session 4 Les Chevaliers   
Sunday, August 15-Friday, August 27        Ages 9-16
Celebrate chivalry, knights, kings, queens an dragons.  Jousting, fencing and our trebuchet will bring the Middle Ages to life. Work toward your knighthood through acts of chivalry and end the session with a Medieval Feast.