Although the OCA does not have a formal COVID-19 vaccine policy in place at this time, we strongly recommend that all camps and outdoor education centres follow the recommendations of Public Health Ontario and the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) regarding vaccinations. Both groups recommend vaccines for people 5 years of age and older unless there are medical exemptions.
We respect that each camp has the autonomy to establish their own policy to best serve their community and their needs. The OCA continues to recommend following the guidelines set out by public health officials including Public Health Ontario and the National Advisory Committee on Immunization. Last updated February 9, 2022.
The OCA has the responsibility to provide our camps with our Standards, resources, guidance, and advocacy. The OCA, however, has no mandate or responsibility to advise or instruct camps to operate or to close.
All decisions regarding operations (including refunds and credits) and/or closures are properly made by the camps’ governance, in accordance with the organization’s mission, principles and practices; by factual science and information; and, under the direction of all relevant government bodies and Public Health. For all questions related to refunds, credits, cancellation, etc., contact the camp directly.
The Ontario Camps Association does not accredit backyard camps or rent-a-counsellor programs.
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Our more than 600 Standards are based on research, regulation, and best practices. The OCA Standards are designed to ensure that OCA Accredited Camps and Outdoor Education Centres deliver a program and experience that is safe, fun, and of a high quality. They cover all aspects of camp and outdoor education safety including facility, health care, food service, program, transportation, as well as management and staff hiring and training.
