Georgian Bay Islands National Park of Canada
Learning Experiences
Georgian Bay Islands is a part of Canada that has been set aside as a National Park. The unique land, water, trees and natural processes as well as the cultural history of the area combine to tell us stories of the past, present and future. Important stories of this place are ones that all Canadians should know in order to protect this place for future generations. The park offers a variety of public education programs, special events and school programs throughout the year.
For further information on learning experiences call: (705) 526-9804
Lock 45 Welcome Center
A visit to Georgian Bay Islands National Park could begin with a visit to the Lock 45 Welcome Center in Port Severn. Here staff will answer any questions you may have and help you to plan your trip to the park. You will also find displays and presentations with information on the park and historic sites in the area. Throughout the summer there will be special events and learning experiences taking place at Lock 45, for more information please do not hesitate to call us at: (705) 526-9804.
Summer Program Schedule
At Georgian Bay Islands National Park you can experience the magnificent 30,000 islands by exploring its unique natural features and learning about local Aboriginal history that spans thousands of years.
There will be an interpreter visiting park facilities on average 5 days per week throughout the summer months. These staff will carry props and activities with them that will inspire learning and fun with park visitors. Roving times will be based on visitor numbers at facilities and weather, and are not scheduled "events". When they arrive please take the opportunity to talk with them and learn more about this special place you are visiting!
Special Events
Cultural History Heritage Day : First Saturday in August
Step back in time and remember the people who once called Beausoleil Island home. It has been 150 years since Beausoleil First Nation left Beausoleil Island. Come celebrate this challenging time in history of our region. Events may include a sunrise ceremony, water ceremony, history hike, traditional teachings with an elder, feast, and sacred fire. A day not to be missed!
For more information call the park office at (705) 526-9804.
Parks Day: Third Saturday in July
Come celebrate our National Park System in Canada with us! Parks Days is a chance to commemorate the protected natural and cultural wonders all across the country. There will be special events and activities so join us at Georgian Bay Islands National Park in the celebration.
School Programs at the Park
Two youth camps, Camp Kitchikewana and Camp Queen Elizabeth, are located within the boundaries of Georgian Bay Islands National Park operated by the Midland YMCA and the London YMCA-YWCA respectively. Both camps provide schools with the opportunity to visit during May and June and offer a variety of programs including some by the park's heritage educators. Demand for these visits is high, so contact the camps well in advance of wanting to come.
Activities and Lessons for Teachers
Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers two types of Education Outreach Programs for classes who are unable to make the trip to Beausoleil Island.
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Environmental Education Program : Invite a heritage educator into your classroom to deliver an Environmental Education Program. Between February and April, our heritage educators visit Grade 4 classes along Southeastern Georgian Bay (Christian Island to Parry Sound) to deliver a free 60-minute interactive presentation. Call the park's heritage educator to book your class presentation.
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Lesson Plans : Teachers teaching outside the Georgian Bay area can still bring this national park into their classroom. Curriculum-linked lesson plans are designed for grade 4 to 8 and can be obtained by contacting the park.