Learn to Camp in the Heart of Montreal

It is time to register for Parks Canada's Learn-to Camp event!

MONTREAL, May 19, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - Today, Parks Canada invited Canadians to register for a unique first-time camping experience and learn about camping basics in the heart of Montreal. The Parks Canada Learn-to Camp weekend is back on June 20 and 21 at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site.

Parks Canada and Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) encourage those interested in experiencing their first camping adventure to reserve their spots for the Learn-to Camp initiative that is being held this year at the Parks Canada Esplanade du Centenaire. The activities will include workshops and advice from expert campers, an outdoor cooking seminar led by a guide and passionate adventurer, dragon boat initiation with the 22Dragons club, and many more surprises! 

Since space is limited, registrations are taken on a first come, first served basis. To reserve your spot, call Parks Canada at 1-888-773-8888. This unique opportunity is offered starting at $88 for up to four people (includes tent, sleeping pads and breakfast). Bring your sleeping bag, your cheerfulness and your evening meal. We'll take care of the rest! 

For a fifth consecutive year, the Learn-to Camp event at the Lachine Canal will be held at the same time as the Montreal Folk Festival on the Canal, a public event featuring traditional folk music by internationally renowned and up-and-coming artists. The Lachine Canal's Learn-to Camp event is the perfect choice for those who enjoy folk music from here and abroad. All you need to experience a unique camping adventure!

Quick facts

• A breath of fresh air has swept through the Learn-to Camp event: this year, it will be held at the Parks Canada Esplanade du Centenaire, located at the corner of Pitt and St-Patrick streets. The Esplanade will be transformed into a campground for a weekend bursting with activities. Just a few steps away from the Atwater Market!
• Curious? Here's a sneak peek at the program: slack-lining, inflatable games, dragon boat rides offered by the 22Dragons club, campfire and marshmallows, and evening talks with La Mauricie National Park.
• Participants will get a chance to win a two-night stay for four people at the Wabenaki or Andrew lodges, located at the lac à la Pêche in La Mauricie National Park, or a two-night oTENTik stay for four people. All you need to enjoy a dream camping experience in a natural setting!
• The Learn-to Camp initiative promises to be the best one yet. A host of activities will be available to participants visiting the Lachine Canal to make for a memorable camping experience in the heart of Montreal.

Quotes

"The beauty of our country is something that everyone should be able to enjoy. Through initiatives like Learn-to Camp, Parks Canada is supporting the National Conservation Plan by helping a large number of Canadians, particularly those living in urban areas, build memorable experiences and discover the pleasures of the outdoors. In addition, Parks Canada's ongoing commitment to this program is enhancing visitor experience and facilitating personal connections with Parks Canada places."

Luc-André Mercier, Director, Quebec Waterways, Parks Canada

"The Learn-to Camp initiative is a first step toward a world of fun and discovery. We are thrilled to be contributing to this initiative. We invite everyone to participate in the program and experience Montreal's breathtaking setting. The Mauricie National Park will surely ignite passions for the great outdoors!"

Carole Loiselle, Superintendant, La Mauricie and Western Quebec Field Unit, Parks Canada

Links

• Parks Canada – Learn to camp
• Lachine Canal National Historique Site
• La Mauricie National Park
• Montreal Folk Fest
• We're also on Twitter! @LachineCanal

Video

• Lachine Canal National Historic Site – Learn to camp

SOURCE Agence Parcs Canada - Unité des voies navigables

Image with caption: "Learn to camp at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site. (CNW Group/Agence Parcs Canada - Unité des voies navigables)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150519_C8269_PHOTO_EN_16749.jpg

Audrey Godin-Champagne, Public Relations and Communications Officer, Quebec Waterways, Parks Canada, Tel.: [phone], [email protected]; Jonathan Lefebvre, Office of the Minister of the Environment, Tel.: [phone]