From May 30 to June 1, 2025, the 1st Kimberley Scouts Group Cub Pack and Beaver Colony set out on a weekend adventure that will be remembered for years to come.
Families and Scout leaders road-tripped to Kokanee Creek Provincial Park in the West Kootenays to camp under the trees and spend an unforgettable day learning to sail.
This trip was the result of months of planning, weeks of kids eagerly asking, “When is the sailing trip?”— and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible generosity of our communities.
Big thanks go to Kootenay Lake Sailing Association (Nelson) for donating their time, boats, and expertise, and to Save-On-Foods (and the camp cooks for preparing hot and delicious meals for the group), Burrito Grill Grab and Go Burritos and nacho chips made Friday dinner an easy ready to eat meal for families that satisfied everyone, and Timber Hitch Coffee Shop for the delicious assorted cookies (Kimberley).
Setting Up Camp
The journey there was half the fun. Some families took the scenic Kootenay Pass while others opted for Kootenay Lake Ferry. We arrived at Kokanee Creek’s beautiful group site to find spacious, shaded camping spots, lush greenery, and not a bug in sight. The sunshine sparkled off the lake, and the beach was just a short walk away.
As more families rolled in, the campsite filled with laughter, the rustle of tents going up, and the excited cheers of children reuniting with friends. Dinner was simple and delicious: grab-and-go burritos with nachos and salsa from Burrito Grill, followed by a sweet assortment of cookies from Timber Hitch.
With a crackling campfire, full bellies, and happy hearts, the energy began to settle as the sun set on our first day.
A Perfect Day for Sailing
Saturday morning arrived bright and beautiful. The Scouts were up early, eager for what was ahead. With help from everyone, we prepared a hearty pancake and eggs breakfast and packed sandwiches for lunch—thanks again to Save On Foods for supplying half the cost of the meals.
By 9:30 a.m., we were off in a convoy to the Prestige Marina in Nelson to meet our sailing hosts. Waiting for us on the docks were six sailboats and twelve knowledgeable members of the Kootenay Lake Sailing Association, ready to share their boats, skills, and passion for the water.
The morning started with hands-on learning about boat safety, marine radios, knot tying, and the basics of sailing. But the real excitement came after lunch, when the Cubs and Beavers got the green light to climb aboard the boats.
They helped hoist sails, steer, jibe, and work the winches as the wind picked up and the boats tacked up the lake. Faces lit up with joy as the wind whipped through their hair. It was thrilling — especially when a nearby sailboat crewed by fellow Scouts turned into a surprise pirate ship, launching a full-scale water cannon battle! With squeals of delight, we ducked and dodged blasts of water, responding with nimble jibes and tacks, trying to outrun our opponents.
It was pure joy and excitement on the water, summed up by one Beaver who shouted, “Best day ever!”
Evening Adventures
Back at camp, tired but buzzing with excitement, we regrouped for dinner and free play in the group site. Kids explored, visited new friends' tents, and enjoyed the sense of freedom and community.
But the excitement wasn’t over yet. During the evening, a bear strolled through our campsite! Thankfully, our well-prepared leaders and families responded quickly with a practiced safety plan. The group remained calm and bear-aware, securing food and cleaning up. After a few distant sightings, the bear moved on and never returned.
Later that evening, we gathered for a presentation at the Kokanee Interpretive Centre on Common Ravens and American Crows, followed by a cozy group campfire under the stars.
Wrapping Up the Weekend
Sunday morning greeted us with more sunshine. Over coffee, hot chocolate, and a light breakfast, we shared highlights and began dreaming about our next great adventure. As we packed up and headed home, the chatter in the cars was all about sailing, bears, and water battles—memories that will last a lifetime.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to everyone who helped make this trip possible—from our parent volunteers and donors to the amazing crew at the Kootenay Lake Sailing Association.
Here’s to more adventures ahead.
