Easter Seals BC/Yukon announces temporary closure of Camp Shawnigan for 2026 season
Easter Seals BC/Yukon announces that Camp Shawnigan will be temporarily closed for the 2026 season for the site to undertake critical improvements and enhancements.
Camp Shawnigan, situated on Shawnigan Lake, 45km north of Victoria, has provided thousands of life-changing camp experiences for children and adults with disabilities since 1979. Each year, around 400 children and adults attend camp programs designed to help them develop confidence and independence, create lasting bonds, and foster a love for nature.
“It was a difficult, but necessary decision to temporarily suspend programming at Camp Shawnigan in 2026,” says Tristan Klassen, Acting CEO, Easter Seals BC/Yukon. “Camp Shawnigan has served us well, but much of the camp infrastructure has reached the end of its useful life. It’s time now to take steps towards a modern facility that will provide support for the disability community aligned with current and future best practices. Support from our donors are so important during this time of transition.”
The plans to temporarily close the Camp Shawnigan site are to allow for the construction of an upgraded campsite. Camp Shawnigan’s transformation aims to create North America’s first year-round, purpose-built, multifunctional space for children, youth, and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. Using Universal Design principles, the space will offer year-round access to recreation and education programs. Its goal is to create an inclusive, barrier-free experience from childhood to adulthood, while offering critical respite to families.
“An aging campsite poses major maintenance and upkeep costs, as well as other unique safety challenges that have only increased with each passing year,” shares James Gagnon, Vice-President, Programs and Services. “We are excited for the redesign and its ability to empower us to pursue excellence in the way we deliver programs and care at Camp Shawnigan. Our incredible camp staff already do so much with the current facilities, and we know that a modern campsite only increases our ability to provide a better experience for every camper.”
The organization offers two other campsites in British Columbia – Camp Squamish in the Sea to Sky corridor and Camp Winfield in the Okanagan. The latest updates on Camp Shawnigan will be available for families, partners, and supporters through regular communication by email and on our website at eastersealsbcy.ca.
“We know how important this camp is to so many children, adults, their families and their communities,” says Klassen. “This project is an investment in the future of our camp programs—so we can come back stronger, safer, and better equipped to serve every camper who comes through our doors.”
The temporary closure will allow the organization to prepare the entire site safely. Upgrades to Camp Shawnigan will include:
• Replacing aging dormitories with new, accessible cabins
• Creating accessible pathways and parking lots
• Accessible dock, beach area, boat launch, and picnic area
• Leveling and grading the entire site to provide better accessibility
• Expanding specialized programming to a year-round model based on the needs of campers and others in the community and opening up opportunities for community use
Specific details subject to change. For any inquiries, please reach out to info@eastersealsbcy.ca
