Cameron, Ontario
August 13-16, 2009
*culture is not optional and Russet House Farm are teaming up again to sponsor ^camping is not optional 2009. Join us for a long weekend of camping, exploring the Kawarthas, campfires, communal worship, reflection, play, swimming, and farm activities. A potluck dinner in the camping area on Saturday night and communal worship on Sunday morning will provide the focal point for the weekend.
Things you should know
- What kind of camping facilities does the farm have?
- What should I plan for meals while I'm there?
- What will the weather be like?
- What are the costs involved?
- What if I'd like to bring my family?
- What if I'd like to come but can't afford the fees?
- How should I prepare for the trip?
- What should I bring with me to the conference?
- If I will be crossing the border from the U.S., what should I consider?
- What if I register but then find out I won't be able to attend?
- How do I get to Russet House Farm?
What kind of camping facilities does the
farm have?
Campers will pitch their tents in one of the farm’s hayfields, which is
surrounded by trees on all sides and on two sides by several acres of forest. Parking
will be located in the adjacent field. There is a common fire ring and
covered picnic area for cooking and eating. Outhouses and washhouses with
sinks are located in the camping area, as well as a source for potable water. Campers
may bathe in local swimming areas, but please be sure to use biodegradable soap
for this purpose.
What should I plan for meals while I'm there?
Individuals and groups will be responsible for their own food preparation,
with a potluck meal on Saturday evening. However, groups are
free to work together on meals and meal times in the picnic area tend to
take on a communal quality. There will be a camp store available with fresh
local produce, baked goods, eggs and other supplies. Please remember that
there may be some restrictions about taking produce across the border.
What will the weather be like?
Though the mosquitoes and heat are rampant in June and July, August
cools off and the bugs settle down, which is why we chose the week we did. Come
prepared for rain and heat, but we are hoping for a temperate, sunny week.
What are the costs involved?
We've tried to establish fair and simple fees to allow as many folks as possible to participate:
- Adults: $10 per night
- Children (under 15): Free
Registrants are responsible for their own meals and transportation.
What if I'd like to bring my family?
Kids are welcome to attend ^camping is not optional. Please be aware
that Russet House Farm is a working farm with live animals. This
feature will no doubt be thrilling to younger children, but
we ask you to caution them against getting too close without
supervision to avoid injury. That said, a range of activities
will be available that are family friendly, so don't worry about
finding a sitter; bring the kids along! For
the purposes of the conference, individuals who are age 15 and younger
will be considered "children."
What if I'd really like to attend but can't afford the fees?
We certainly understand financial strain and don't want anyone to
miss out because they don't have enough money. Please contact
us so
we can talk about making a special arrangement.
How should I prepare for the trip?
^camping is not optional is flexible enough to accommodate
a variety of needs. If you need rest and quiet time, do some
research on what activities in the area might provide that for
you; bring a comfy chair and good books. If you're looking for social
interaction and intellectual stimulation, prepare to network
and share your story.
What should I bring with me to the conference?
If you will be coming from the U.S., be sure to bring your passport.
A PASSPORT IS NOW REQUIRED TO CROSS THE BORDER. All attendees will want to
be sure they're adequately supplied with gear for cooking and sleeping, as
well as clothing for hot weather and for rain. As you will be washing in
ways that send your wastewater back into the ground, please bring biodegradable
soap and plan to use it sparingly. Other suggestions include a journal, a
camera, healthy snacks, water, binoculars, a chair and field guides. You
may also wish to bring cash for purchasing items from local farmers.
If I will be crossing the border from the U.S., what should I consider?
REMEMBER: Be sure to bring your passport. Also, there
are limitations on fresh produce, cigarettes and alcohol. You
will be able to exchange cash at the border on your way in and
your way out. Depending on where and when you cross, there may
be a long line, so be sure to make an allowance for that in your
travel time.
What if I register, but then find out I won't be able to attend?
If something arises that will prohibit you from attending after you've
registered, the refund schedule is as follows:
- On or before July 7: Full refund of camping fees
- On or before August 1: 50% refund of camping fees
- No refunds will be given after August 1.
- About forty-five minutes east of Toronto is exit 436, which is Hwy 115/35 to Lindsay and Peterborough. Be careful here as there are two exits very close together. Take 35/115 north for about 20 km (12.5 miles).
- Follow the 35 toward Lindsay when it splits from 115.
- When you get to Lindsay pay attention to the signs as 35 skirts the city. It's all well-marked.
- Follow 35 about 15 km (10 miles) to the village of Cameron. Continue on 35 through Cameron.
- The first left past the village of Cameron is Chambers Road and the second left is Country Lane. Turn left on Country Lane and go about a mile. The Russet House Farm driveway is on the left, marked with a green sign that says "459". It's a long lane; just keep going.
How do I get to
Russet House Farm?
The address for Russet House Farm is 459
Country Lane,
Cameron, Ontario. The
following directions will get you to the farm from the 401 west of
Toronto.
If you get lost, the phone number at the farm is 705-887-9429.
Area activities
Plenty of time will be available throughout the weekend for leisure activities on the farm and in the surrounding Kawartha Lakes area. "Land of Shining Waters," the aboriginal meaning of Kawartha, aptly describes this region of gleaming lakes, lustrous rivers and iridescent streams. Gently rolling hills and flatlands support thick oak and pine forests, flourishing farmland, and inhabited marshes. Culture, stunning scenery and recreational options abound.
The Canadian Canoe Museum: The Canadian Canoe Museum is a unique national heritage centre that explores the canoe's enduring significance to the peoples of Canada. Through the web site, you can take a virtual tour of the Museum's collection and exhibits, plan your trip to the Museum, and learn more about Canada's canoeing heritage.
Canoeing & Kayaking: Southern Ontario's gentle rivers, country inns, antiques, wine and great lakes are some of the pleasures of paddling in Ontario's agricultural heartland. This region offers accessible adventure, the drama of the Niagara escarpment, the heritage of the Grand River and the peace of the Kawartha Lakes. This is the place for leisurely afternoon paddles, day trips by canoe or kayak, or when the water is up, park and play boating. Visit Paddling Ontario for more information.
Hiking & Biking: Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve features wilderness adventure activities including the Wolf Centre, Walk in the Clouds forest canopy tour, mountain biking, hiking, astronomy and wildlife observation. Additionally, The Haliburton Trails and Tours Network is an organization dedicated to the development and promotion of trails and tours in Haliburton County. Rent a bike or bring your own to take advantage riding opportunities throughout the area.
Indian Point Provincial Park: Located on the north end of Balsam Lake, this park features one of the longest undeveloped shorelines in the Kawartha Lakes region. Consisting of a low, limestone escarpment, this lake shore property is an alvar.
Peterborough Petroglyphs: Deep within a forest northeast of Peterborough is the largest known concentration of aboriginal rock carvings in Canada. Carved into the white marble rock face hundreds of years ago, the 900 petroglyphs depict turtles, snakes, birds, humans and other images. Hiking trails meander through surrounding forests, wetlands and rocky ridges. Visit the web site for more information.
Shopping in Downtown Fenelon Falls: The nearest sizable town to Russet House Farm is Fenelon Falls, which has a lovely downtown nestled around a waterfall and filled with shops, restaurants and more.
Other Activities:
- Amish farm tour & visits
- Swimming
- Gardening
- Farm Chores