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WYLD Camp Huckleberry Information
WYLD Camp Huckleberry
WYLD Camp Huckleberry is a 5 day backpacking trip that focuses on supporting Queer, Trans, and 2-spirit teens in creating connections, celebrating queer and trans joy, and accessing the outdoors in a fun and supportive way.
This program is led by a team of experienced 2-spirit, queer and trans outdoor instructors, peer mental health support, and youth leaders and is for 2sLGBTQIA+ and allied teens.
On this expedition you’ll travel by foot into Strathcona’s subalpine. The trail is lined with stunning mountain views, big trees, and glistening lakes, it’s a perfect place to learn introductory backpacking skills. Campers will begin their adventure at the Lodge’s base camp going over trip preparation and getting to know their fellow participants. The following day they will set out on their 4 day hiking trip. Throughout the trip, campers will foster community, learn foundational backcountry camping skills, and have opportunities for leadership along the way.
This is a life changing and life saving experience and I fully intend to send my kiddo back to queer joy camp (as they put it).
– WYLD Huckleberry Camp, Parent
WYLD Camp Huckleberry Story
In 2024, Alana Norie approached SPL with the idea of facilitating a WYLD camp for Queer, Trans, 2-spirit, and allied teens. Alana wrote “I designed this queer backpacking trip, because well… I love backpacking, and I am very queer and very trans!! I wanted to share these joys with you all, and for us to create magical experiences on the land together.” The goal of the camp is for youth to create connections and gain access to backpacking in an affirming and supportive environment.
The first WYLD Queer Backpacking camp took place in August 2024. Alana received funding from donors to support in reducing some of the financial barriers that youth & families may face when accessing programs.
In 2026, the camp was named WYLD Camp Huckleberry. Alana wrote: “The name Camp Huckleberry was chosen as the huckleberries come to be ripe each July and August, the same time we gather annually. This name honors the gifts the land offers us, and reminds us of how lucky we are to get to nourish queer joy.”
Strathcona Park Lodge is excited to continue to partner with Alana in creating these empowering and meaningful experiences for youth!
Who funds Camp Huckleberry?
We extend our gratitude to current and past supporters who show true genuine support and allyship with 2sLGBTQIA+ youth and team. Thank you Robinsons Outdoors, Canadian Tire Jumpstart, Hotel Zed, First Credit Union and GOATS Victoria. If you are interested in supporting Camp Huckleberry, please reach out to Alana at camphuckleberryinfo@gmail.com
Who can receive funding?
We are dedicated to providing inclusive outdoor opportunities for 2-spirit, queer and trans youth and are passionate that financial means should not be a barrier to a youth who is excited to participate.
Any youth can access full or sliding scale funding if it would assist in their attendance to Camp Huckleberry. We trust that those who request funding to cover trip costs will benefit from it and therefore don’t require proof of financial barriers. For our 2025 camp, 100% of the youth received full or partial funding.
Depending on the amount of funding available, upon request Camp Huckleberry may be able to assist in travel/gas costs for youth or their families/caregivers.
How to access funding?
How do I sign up?
Since WYLD Huckleberry youth are able to access funding opportunities, we ask that anyone who is interested in participating fills out the Interest Form. SPL & the Camp Huckleberry Leadership team will review the list and then be in touch via email to provide more information on the booking process. We welcome new and returning campers!
We are only able to offer between 10-20 participant spaces each year.
Learn More! Our Camp Huckleberry Zines
Each year our wonderful Camp Huckleberry instructors create a Zine that outlines the program flow along with other useful information to help you feel more prepared before arriving at camp. We hope these help answer some of your questions! Reach out if you’d like to connect more about camp details.
About The Camp Huckleberry Leadership Team
The Camp Huckleberry Leadership Team is made up of a group of 2-spirit, queer and trans youth leaders who love fostering queer joy, belonging, and play on the land. WYLD Camp Huckleberry is supported by our amazing leaders who each bring different expertise, lived experiences and stories. Our experienced Outdoor Instructors include Alana (they/them), Levi (he/him), Avery (she/her), Maxx (they/them) and Tim (he/him). Ry (he/they/una) joins us as a Peer Mental Health and Cultural Support Worker, and Ellis (he/him) is our Youth Mentor, who walks alongside new campers during their trip as a previous camper himself. Together we are known for our silliness, thoughtfulness, and collective love of being on the land with Camp Huckleberry youth!
The most comfortable and joyful backpacking trip I've ever been on. Thank you to everyone that made this happen!
– WYLD Huckleberry Camp Participant