A long-established children’s summer camp that burned down in last year’s devastating McDougall Creek wildfire will remain closed until 2025.
On Wednesday, the Anglican Diocese of Kootenay announced that Camp OAC’s opening has been deferred.
Situated along the shores of Okanagan Lake in the Central Okanagan, the camp had been in operation since 1950 until it was completely razed by the wildfire last August.
“Okanagan Anglican Camp offers such an unforgettable experience for so many young people, and I’m incredibly disappointed that a variety of circumstances beyond our control have forced us into this decision,” Archbishop Lynne McNaughton said.
“And yet, as a diocesan ministry, Camp OAC is, above all, committed to the safety of young people. When campers return, we want to guarantee that everything is back, and to the highest standard.”
Breaking news from Canada and around the world
sent to your email, as it happens.
The church says a dedicated team of volunteers has overseen securing permits and site remediation, such as replacing destroyed cabins and infrastructure.
It also added that a fundraising campaign is underway to help rebuild the camp.
Of the camp’s 31 structures, 26 were destroyed. However, two of the buildings that survived sustained damage from post-wildfire thieves stealing copper pipes.
The church told Global News last year that the summer of 2022 saw camp capacity at 98 per cent.
“Camp OAC is a special place that has been enjoyed by campers for years, and will be enjoyed for years to come,” McNaughton said.
“While our goals for this year couldn’t be accomplished, I have the utmost confidence that we will return to a greater camp and camp community in 2025.
“I cannot wait to see what we are able to accomplish when we are able to welcome campers back home.”
© 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
