Camp Shagabec: A Summer Haven for Wellness and Connection in the Cypress Hills
By Kate Winquist
Each summer, the serene Cypress Hills becomes home to Camp Shagabec, a place where campers and volunteers alike come together to focus on wellness, connection, and community. “Our main focus is to make sure everyone has fun, and feels safe and loved within our camping community,” said Shyann Vaskevicius on her Facebook page.
Camp Shagabec operates thanks to dedicated volunteer counsellors who work tirelessly to create an environment that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. From home-cooked meals made with care to engaging activities designed to inspire growth and friendship, the camp offers an experience that leaves a lasting impact.
For Vaskevicius, who has been a camper and volunteer for over half her life, the camp is transformative. “If given more space, I could fill pages with testimonials from friends and campers who say their mental health has improved from the deep connections made without technology as a barrier,” she said. “They tell me they feel stronger and healthier from the nutritious meals and daily exercise, and that their favourite moments are the deep conversations about the world and their place in it. Being surrounded by nature in the sacred Cypress Hills is healing too, in a way words can’t quite capture.”
As Camp Shagabec continues to grow, the team is committed to sustainability and accessibility. The camp has been updating its facilities to make them more efficient and welcoming for all. With these improvements, Vaskevicius hopes to secure the 10k Community Empowerment Grant to ensure the camp can continue its work for years to come.
“We really just want to be able to continue what we do sustainably,” she said. “The good people of Camp Shagabec care deeply, and every cent would be put to good use.”
For those looking to support a community dedicated to connection, wellness, and unforgettable summer memories, Camp Shagabec is a shining example of what happens when people come together with care, love, and purpose.