Mission Vision Our Story Who we serve Activities Typical day Staff Donate Contact Return To Top

Mission

At the Ghostrider Adventure Camp Foundation, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience the wonder of nature, build confidence through adventure, and form lasting friendships.

Based in the beautiful Elk Valley of British Columbia, we provide a fully-funded, outdoor adventure camp experience that builds confidence, resilience, and joy in children aged 8 - 12 from across the Elk Valley region who would otherwise miss out on these transformative opportunities.

We also run a leadership training program for teens of the valley to become camp counsellors of the future.

Vision

A community where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to formative outdoor experiences that nurture their potential and create lasting positive memories.

Our Story

The Ghostrider Adventure Camp was established in 2004 by Brenda Birrell, Kay Chesley, Paul Attela and Bob Livsey who recognized a critical gap in opportunities for children in Elk Valley.

Named after the iconic Ghostrider mountain that watches over our region, our foundation embodies the spirit of adventure and protection.

What began as a small initiative to send 16 children to camp has grown into a community movement that now provides life-changing experiences to dozens of local children each year. In 2019 we became a registered charitable organization known as The Ghostrider Adventure Camp Foundation.

Who we serve

The Ghostrider Adventure Camp Foundation works with local schools, community services, and family support organizations to identify children who:

  • Come from families facing financial hardship
  • May be experiencing challenging home situations
  • Could benefit from additional social and emotional support
  • Would otherwise not have access to summer camp experiences
  • Are between the ages of 8-12 and reside in the Elk Valley region
  • Teens wishing to join the leadership program as a counsellor in training

Activities

Campers participate in age-appropriate activities guided by trained staff:

  • Hiking and nature exploration
  • Canoeing and water safety
  • Rafting with professional instruction
  • Campfire and outdoor survival skills
  • Team-building challenges and games
  • Arts and crafts using natural materials
  • Evening campfire songs, skits & stories

A Typical Day at Camp

  • Morning: Breakfast, cabin clean-up, morning activity rotation, water activities
  • Afternoon: Lunch, rest time, specialized adventure programs, water activities
  • Evening: Dinner, camp-wide games, campfire, cabin reflection time

Staff

All Ghostrider Adventure Camp counsellors and activity leaders are carefully selected and trained professionals with:

  • Extensive background checks
  • First aid and safety certifications
  • Experience working with children from diverse backgrounds
  • Training in trauma-informed approaches to childcare
  • Passion for the outdoors and child development