Our Philosophy

Our mission is simple . . . Make camp the highlight of every kid's summer vacation.

We accomplish this goal by planning every minute of the entire summer very carefully. Firstly, we want parents to know that their kids are safe in our care and that we're providing a great environment with positive role models. Secondly, we want kids to have the time of their lives through play, friendship and lots of laughs.

Our programs are designed with two overriding principles in mind. Is it safe? Is it fun? If we can answer yes to these questions, then we "go for it". We plan activities with safety as our primary concern and then make sure each activity is loaded with fun. The nice thing about camp, compared to school, is that we don't have to follow a curriculum and kids aren't graded or scored. It's all about the experience.

Our success is based on the fact that kids love our camp and they come back summer after summer.

Our History

2012 marks our 17th camp season.

Camps Canada (then called ABC Sports Camp) began in 1996 as the vision of owner Matt Barr. As a former tennis professional and someone who enjoyed camp as a youngster himself, Matt set out to create an environment where kids would have fun and experience success regardless of their ability. Camp is an environment where all are welcome, non are excluded, and all are celebrated for their individuality. Camp is for everyone, not just the brightest, most creative or athletic. We celebrate success on a constant basis no matter how small or large the accomplishment.

Camps Canada Owner - Matt Barr's Timeline

YEAR	EMPLOYER	POSITION
1991	Ontario Jr A Hockey Camp (Arnprior, Ontario)	Camp Counselor - On-Ice Instruction specializing in Goaltender Instruction
1992	Thunderbird Athletic Club (Carp, Ontario)	Camp Director - Thunderbird Tennis Camp
1993	Thunderbird Athletic Club (Carp, Ontario)	Founder / Director - Thunderbird All-Star Sports Camp
1996	ABC Sports Camp (One location - Earl of March HS, Kanata)	Founder / Owner
2003	Camps Canada (Two locations - Earl of March HS, Kanata / Barrhaven PS, Barrhaven)	The name of the business was changed. Founder / Owner
2009	Ultima Camps (Two locations - AY Jackson SS, Kanata / Roch Carrier ES, Kanata)	New Owner - I purchased the camp from a previous owner
2011	Camps Canada (Five locations - Barrhaven, Beaverbrook, Bridlewood, Stittsville, Riverside South)	Ultima Camps now fall under the name Camps Canada. Founder / Owner

Although the locations of camp, and the staff and kids have changed over the years, Matt's passion for camp remains.