About Camp Olave

Camp Olave - A Brief History

The beginnings of Camp Olave demonstrate amazing courage on the part of early Guiders. In February 1930 the former assembly camp of the Rat Portage Lumber Company was purchased. After much fundraising and difficulties it was owned free and clear in 1935. This was done during the depression! Originally the camp consisted of Rose and Brock cottages, stables made of huge logs, a few shacks and a sunken wharf. It is currently cared for by four Girl Guide Areas, Burnaby Royal, Fraser Delta (Richmond Divisions) Lions and Vancouver which make up the Camp Olave Management Committe (COMC). Then as now there is a constant need for caring people to look after the camp.

For a longer history of Camp Olave click here.

Camp sites

Field (day use only)

Historic Camp Olave Crests

News and Current Events:

Gone Home The Book of Memory was created in 2005 to honour the memory of those people, both men and women, who loved Camp Olave and shared their energy and enthusiasm, time and talent with the Camp. Contributions include cottage construction and renovation, educational programs, mentoring new campers, nature projects, program work, site maintenance and improvements and teaching. Our first page will be devoted to Dr. Harold Zimmerman, a long-time friend and gardener. For information about nominating someone for the Book of Memory call 604-291-1257.

The storm in February 2006 did some damage to our sea wall and repairs were initially made to the two end portions of the seawall. Improvements to the middle portion near the boathouse were recently completed.

A large new kitchen shelter was constructed at Hi Yu Win by Vancouver Area. Opening ceremonies were in June 2006. This will be a wonderful asset for Camp Olave and for the campers!

The new Amy Leigh Fitness Circuit has been built by volunteers. It is located in the woods near the Archery Range and includes eight stations, a park bench, a picnic table and a lovely forested trail. It is named for Amy Leigh, the first Girl Guide in Burnaby and a long-time Guider in Vancouver. Amy was one of those who suggested the very first national camp. For more information about the Fitness Circuit see the Fitness Circuit page.

The Future

The long range wish list will include an upgrade to the kitchen and bathroom in Tipi Waken, upgrades to our roads, a new program site, a multi-function tenting site on Pioneer, redevelopment of IODE with an outdoor extension, a drying room, upgrades to the caretaker's cabin, and as always seawall maintainance.

If you would like to assist with Camp Olave by working in a work party, donating funds, expertise, goods or ? contact our web manager by email or phone us at 604-291-1257. Please check out our wish list.