History
For more than 100 years, Onondaga Camp has been a place where nature, adventure, and community come together.
Named from the Onondaga Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, it was founded by Keith Crowther on the shores of Lake Erie before moving to its current home on Middle Bob Lake near Minden, Ontario.
Nestled on over 450 acres of forest and two sparkling lakes, Onondaga Camp has grown and evolved offering a vast, exciting range of land and water activities and adventures.
Today, we continue to honour our heritage while providing campers with a screen-free, immersive experience in nature.
Over the Years
1918
Keith Crowther, staff member at Upper Canada College starts Onondaga Camp at Port Dover on Lake Erie.
1922
Meredith Brockwell becomes owner.
1931
Onondaga Camp has its first full season at its final site, Middle Bob Lake, near Minden, Ontario.
1954
Onondaga Camp Limited is established with a Board of Directors; Hadley Armstrong of Trinity College School becomes managing director.
1974
Hadley Armstrong sells the camp to Nick and Janis Florian.
1975
Onondaga Camp becomes co-educational.
1992
Onondaga Camp is sold to David Hadden, David Lever, and Michael Moore, previous directors of the Camp.
2002
Duncan Robertson becomes director. From its earliest days to today, Onondaga Camp has never stood still. Rooted in a remarkable past and energized by the campers who shape its future, each summer becomes the next chapter in a story still being written.
2004
New dining hall is constructed
2011
Duncan Robertson becomes owner/partner
From its earliest days to today, Onondaga Camp has never stood still. Rooted in a remarkable past and energized by the campers who shape its future, each summer becomes the next chapter in a story still being written.
Philosophy
Our camp is built on 100% screen-free living, meaningful connection, and immersive outdoor experiences.
We blend nature with thoughtful amenities and progressive programming to create a culture that feels both timeless and fresh – all in a breathtaking northern landscape.
Through face-to-face relationships, shared challenges, and time in nature, campers build confidence, friendships, and a strong sense of belonging within age-based groups.
Leadership development is central to our philosophy, with Leaders in Training gaining hands-on experience alongside campers.
Each day encourages exploration, growth, and lasting memories rooted in curiosity, courage, and connection.