Author Kevin Callan (a.k.a. The Happy Camper) will present on a number of river canoe routes across Ontario, from well known waterways like Algonquin’s Petawawa and the French to more remote rivers such as the Kopka and the Steel River.

Seasoned paddlers in a panel discussion on bear stories, biology, and keeping bears out of camp. Author Kevin Callan, Andrew and Ethan Elkins, and retired DNR Biologist/Zoologist and Bureau Director of Endangered Species Charles Pils will talk about bears and best practices of keeping them out of camp, along with stories and taking questions.

Kevin Callan (a.k.a. The Happy Camper) will present on a number of tips and tricks he’s learned over the years of canoe tripping in the wilderness. Kevin will touch on: staying warm and dry, making a one-match fire, having a lighter pack, portage etiquette, choosing a good campsite, making a good camp meal, proper canoe strokes, navigation, dealing with bugs and bears, first-aid, how to make a good bush martini... and many, many more. If you’re a novice or an experienced tripper, you’ll definitely get something out of this presentation.

Once again, our three Aluminum Chefs will test their camp culinary skills against each other in true outdoor style. Kevin Callan returns as our unstoppable emcee in this fast-paced event. Woods-woman Mona Gauthier and former park ranger Marty Koch go up against local chef Luke Zahm of the Driftless Cafe in Viroqua, WI. Using MSR stoves and cook kits and a pantry of simple ingredients you might have on your next camping trip, our chefs will compete for the best appetizer, entree, and dessert. Come join the fun - you could be one of the judges from the audience who will determine the winner of each course!