Recaps and Reflections of the Summer of 2024

As the first hint of autumn cools the air, I find myself reminiscing over the long, sun-drenched days of the summer of 2024, when the great outdoors was our playground and every moment seemed imbued with a sense of adventure. There’s something about summer camping and cottage life in Canada that has been etched into my soul like the Indigenous pictographs of Bon Echo. From the moment the snowdrops fade and the first crocus blooms, anticipation builds for the joys of summer in the wilderness. Let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and revisit the simple pleasures and unforgettable moments that make these adventures so special. 

The Allure of the Great Outdoors

There’s a timeless charm to the Canadian wilderness. Whether it's the dense forests of Ontario, the rugged terrain of British Columbia, or the serene lakes of Quebec, each region offers its own unique canvas for summer exploration. The spring and summer of 2024 were special, as I had the opportunity of experiencing all three of these, and more! I love the thrill of packing up the camping gear, feeling a palpable sense of excitement as we embarked on our journey to the nearest provincial park, remote cottage or an eight-hour drive to explore a new province.

The drive itself was part of the adventure—rolling hills, winding roads, and the ever-present scent of pine trees filling the air. As we approached each of our destinations, the landscape would transform from urban sprawl to lush greenery, and the hustle of daily life seemed to dissolve with each passing mile marker.

Setting Up Camp 

Arriving at the campsite or cottage always felt like a grand occasion. There is something incredibly satisfying about setting up the campsite, arranging everything just right. The ritual of unpacking the cooler, filling the ice maker, and setting up the camping chairs was accompanied by the cheerful banter of friends, set to a background of The Tragically Hip, all eagerly anticipating the days ahead.

This summer we stayed at seven campgrounds in four provinces: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and Ontario. Each with its own special gems and unique features. 

Adventures and Activities

Our days were filled with all sorts of activities. Hiking through verdant trails, we would marvel at the beauty of the landscape—ancient trees, sparkling streams, and the occasional deer peeking through the underbrush. Each hike felt like a small victory, and the reward of reaching a scenic overlook, finding a hidden waterfall, or triumphing over Cardiac Hill, was always worth the effort.

Stand-up paddle boarding was another frequent activity. Gliding across calm waters, the only sounds were the gentle splashes of paddles and the distant call of loons. It was in these moments of serene solitude that we truly felt connected to nature, the worries of everyday life drifting away with each stroke.

We rode bikes, took the dogs on long walks and quick swims at the dog beaches, and visited every camp store on our never-ending quest for bumper stickers. We enjoyed white water rafting and a pontoon boat BBQ lunch on the Ottawa River. And countess flights of local brewery beer on the East Coast.

Evenings were a highlight of the camping experience. As twilight settled in, we gathered around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under a canopy of stars. The crackling of the fire, the scent of wood smoke, and the comforting warmth of the flames created an ambiance of camaraderie and contentment.

The Lessons Learned 

Beyond the fun and adventure, summer camping and cottage life taught us valuable lessons. The beauty of nature instilled a sense of wonder and respect for the environment. The simplicity of life in the great outdoors reminded us of the joys of slowing down and appreciating the moment. The challenges of setting up camp or dealing with unexpected weather conditions taught us resilience, resourcefulness, and where the closest movie theatre was located.

A Fond Farewell 

With school starting again soon, summer gives way to autumn and the days grow shorter, I find myself wistfully reflecting on cherished memories of camping and cottage adventures of 2024. The laughter, the stories, the serene moments of solitude, and the shared experiences with loved ones are treasures that stay with us long after the seasons change.

For those who have yet to experience the magic of summer in the Canadian wilderness, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seek it out. Whether you’re pitching a tent in a remote national park or settling into a cozy lakeside cottage, the adventure awaits. Embrace the outdoors, cherish the simple pleasures, and let the beauty of Canada’s natural landscapes create memories that will last a lifetime.

~ Anja