Frequently Asked Questions
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Here are the answers to your questions about Lake Joe’s specialized camp program.
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- What is included in my fees?
All one-week packages include:
- Three meals prepared and served daily by our fantastic catering team
- One shared room, equipped with two single beds, a night stand, an adjoining washroom and shelving for personal items
- All on-site programming (canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing and sailing)
- Daily scheduled land and water activities, and evening programs
- Can I rent the Lake Joseph Centre for a special event/family reunion/wedding?
Absolutely! We rent the Lake Joseph Centre facilities to groups during the months of May, June and September. Check out the facilities section of our website for more information.
- Is there any financial assistance available?
Yes. CNIB Lake Joseph Centre, local CNIB offices across Ontario and the Lions of Ontario work together to provide financial assistance to Ontario residents who would like to visit Lake Joe.
Application for funding assistance is assessed on a "first come, first served" basis to those who qualify. Priority is given to those who have submitted applications prior to March 1 along with the $100 deposit. The CNIB Lake Joseph Centre will fund a maximum of one week for those individuals who qualify.
- Where is Lake Joe?
Lake Joe stretches over 12.5 acres of prime waterfront property on the Northwest corner of beautiful Lake Joseph. CNIB Lake Joseph Centre is a popular destination in Ontario’s beautiful Muskoka Region. Check out a detailed map
- Is transportation provided to Lake Joe?
Transportation To and From Camp:
By bus, car or rail – however you plan to come to Lake Joe – please note this very important information. For those of you who have not yet made arrangements, please remember that transportation to and from Lake Joe is your own responsibility.
Travelling by Car
There have been changes to Hwy 69. Please instruct your driver to consult driving directions prior to setting out on your trip. Check out a detailed map to Lake Joe.
CNIB Lake Joseph Transportation:
Lake Joe has made arrangements to extend bussing service to adult campers at a reasonable rate. Please note that bussing is available only if an adequate number of campers sign up.
Bus service to MacTier is via the Ontario Northland Bus Lines. For schedules, call 1-800-363-7512 (or contact your local bus terminal for departure times).
Lake Joe staff will be at the Northland Bus stop on check-in days to meet all guests who have notified camp in advance of their arrival.
Please note that if you are departing camp by Northland Bus, there will be a $25 fee. This fee includes lunch and the use of the Welcome Centre and grounds. Please note that Northland Bus Lines has changed their scheduling – there is no longer a morning bus departure.
VIA Rail:
VIA Rail offers transportation to Parry Sound. If you arriving by rail, please be sure to let camp know ahead of time and we will make arrangements for someone to pick you up.
- Do I require the services of a personal caregiver?
The staff at Lake Joe are selected, trained and insured to deliver recreational programs only. To make certain that your personal needs are attended to, you may require the services of a personal care giver (guide). Arranging for such services is the responsibility of the guest.
- I have special dietary needs; will they be accommodated during summer camp?
Lake Joe is equipped to cater to all special dietary requirements due to allergy, religious and vegetarian specifications. We are a peanut-free centre. Information regarding dietary needs of campers will be collected after registration.
- Can someone help me with my medication during summer camp?
Guests who require assistance with medication must indicate this on their health and dietary form. The Wellness Centre staff will assist with daily health routines.
Any medications at camp should arrive:
- Each in its own bottle (or blister pack) with pharmacy label attached to each bottle
- With blister packs prepared by the pharmacist and with the accompanying labels of medication attached
NOTE: Medications that are NOT provided in the manner described above and do not contain pharmacy labelling will NOT be accepted at camp.
- Are there trips offered to local attractions during my stay at summer camp?
Yes, we offer many off-site trips during each one-week stay, at an additional cost on top of the camp fee. The cost of off-site trips varies depending on the excursion, and includes transportation to and from location, a meal (when needed) and admission fee. A complete list of off-site trips can be provided upon your arrival at camp.
- Can a sighted companion vacation with me at Lake Joe?
Yes. Please be sure to have your companion fill in a registration form as well.
- Can I bring my Working Dog to the summer camp sessions?
Working dogs are welcome at Lake Joe. We offer a dog relieving area, which will be introduced to you upon arrival.
- Are there hospitals near by the camp site?
West Parry Sound Health Centre Hospital is located 43km north of the camp on Hwy 69, and can be reached at 1-800-563-2808. CNIB Lake Joseph Staff are trained in First Aid and CPR.
- Is there a snack bar and tuck shop at the Lake Joe camp site?
Yes, our tuck shop features a wide variety of Lake Jo apparel along with hats, postcards, candy and snacks.
- Can I request my own room?
All bookings are based on double occupancy. Single occupancy may be requested for an additional cost, if available. If you are unable to attend with a partner, friend or family member, a roommate will be assigned.
Still have questions about Lake Joe and our summer camp program? Try contacting us directly!