Summer 2026 Camps
Join us for a day full of adventure and curiosity with our summer camps. Get ready to explore all around the Vancouver Lower Mainland!
Registration now open!
Day at Camp
🌿 10:00 AM – Drop-off & Free Play
Campers arrive at our outdoor location and ease into the day through guided free play.
This time encourages social interaction, independence, and creative exploration in a safe, welcoming environment.
☀️ 10:30 AM – Morning Circle
We gather for songs, storytelling, and group sharing.
This builds community, communication skills, and emotional confidence, while introducing the day’s theme.🌲 11:00 AM – Outdoor Exploration (Parks, Beach, Forest)
Children explore the natural world through hands-on outdoor activities in Vancouver’s parks, beaches, and forests.
Activities may include:
Nature walks & scavenger hunts
Beach exploration & sensory play
Forest discovery & loose parts play
This is where environmental awareness, curiosity, and physical development come to life.
🧺 12:00 PM – Lunch (Outdoor Picnic Style)
Campers enjoy lunch together in nature, building healthy habits, independence, and social connection.
👉 Hot Lunch Program Available
Families have the option to enroll in our convenient hot lunch program for an additional fee. This is a popular choice for busy parents looking for a stress-free summer camp experience in Vancouver.🔬 1:00 PM – STEAM Activity
Our signature STEAM-based learning integrates science, technology, engineering, art, and math into fun, hands-on projects.
Examples include:
Nature-inspired art & design
Simple science experiments
Building and problem-solving challenges
This supports critical thinking, creativity, and innovation skills.
🏃♀️ 2:30 PM – Group Games
High-energy outdoor games that promote:
Teamwork & collaboration
Physical activity & coordination
Confidence and leadership skills
🍎 3:00 PM – Snack Time
A relaxing break to recharge with a healthy snack and connect with friends.
🌈 3:30 PM – Reflection & Wind Down
We close the day with reflection, storytelling, or calm activities.
Children share their experiences, helping build self-expression, mindfulness, and confidence.👋 4:00 PM – Pick-up
Families arrive for pick-up after a joyful day of outdoor adventure and meaningful learning.
At Compass Outdoor Education, every camp day is thoughtfully designed to combine outdoor learning, nature exploration, and hands-on STEAM activities. Our program takes place in beautiful Vancouver parks, beaches, local attractions, and forest settings, giving children a truly immersive summer camp experience.
We focus on play-based learning, social-emotional development, and creativity, helping children build confidence, curiosity, and connection with nature.10:00 Drop-off & free play.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our programs are designed for children ages 3–12. We have two tracks: Junior Trailblazers (ages 3–6) and Mighty Explorers (ages 7–12).
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We are an outdoor program and go outside in most weather. We prepare children with appropriate clothing. We monitor forecasts and communicate with families in advance if conditions are unsafe.
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Comfortable outdoor clothing, rain jacket, water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes. A full packing list is sent before the first session.
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Location details and meeting points are confirmed by email before each session. We serve multiple locations across the Lower Mainland.
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Absolutely. Our small group format and experienced educators create a safe, welcoming environment for all children, including those joining for the first time.
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Yes. All Compass programs are developed with BC curriculum connections across Science, Math, Language Arts, and Core Competencies.
Spring Half Day Camps
Our outdoor courses consist of four semesters, each corresponding to a season (spring, summer, autumn, and winter). Classes are held once a week for 2 hours, with new content introduced each semester.
Registration now open!
Why Choose Us
Small group sizes for more personalized support
Age 3-5 1:4
Age 6-12 1:6
100% outdoor, screen-free learning environment
Nature-based STEAM activities
Designed for children ages 3–12
Safe, nurturing, and engaging camp experience
Certificate of Achievement for every participant
Explore STEAM and Outdoor Learning in Vancouver
At Compass Outdoor Education, we provide a unique blend of STEAM education and outdoor experiences for children ages 3 - 12. Our Vancouver-based programs, including camps, classes, and workshops, emphasize science, technology, engineering, arts, and math, all within the beautiful natural surroundings of Vancouver. Through project-based learning in small groups, kids participate in exciting activities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for outdoor learning.
Discover the wonders of nature while helping your child build essential life skills. Contact us today to explore our programs and embark on an unforgettable journey of exploration and education!
"The best classroom and the richest cupboard is roofed only by the sky."
Margaret McMillan
Our Philosophy: STEAM and Outdoor Learning
Guided by student curiosity…
We focus on whole-person development and believe STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and outdoor learning inspire students to find their passion, explore their interests, and discover their full potential.
At Compass Outdoor, we are dedicated to STEAM education because it fosters critical thinking, enhances interdisciplinary competency, and cultivates the next generation of innovators. Our programs inspire students to become life-long learners, independent thinkers, and future leaders.
