The Pine Project
Rating
Family of 4
$200-$500+ CAD per child per week for camp programs.
Duration
Full day (camp programs) or 2-3 hours (family programs)
Best Ages
Best for ages 4-14
About
The Pine Project at 276 Carlaw Avenue in Toronto is a nature-based education organization running outdoor programs focused on unstructured nature play and wilderness skills. The flagship summer day camp has children spending full days in Toronto's ravine systems. Activities are child-directed with facilitator support — shelter building, creek exploration, plant identification, and fire-safety skills.
The approach includes risk-appropriate play: tree climbing, tool use (supervised), and measured risks that build confidence. Programs run year-round including after-school, March break, and weekend family programs. The Carlaw Avenue address is administrative; programs take place in the Don Valley and Rouge Park areas. Registration opens months in advance and popular sessions fill quickly.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Year-round programs — summer camps are most popular
Wait Times
Pre-registered programs — no drop-in
Nearby Food
Pack a full lunch and snacks for camp programs.
Why Kids Love It
They spend entire days outside in ravines and forests doing things like building shelters, starting fires, climbing trees, and exploring creeks. There are no screens, no structured sports drills — just real, messy, outdoor play. Kids come home exhausted, dirt-covered, and asking to go back.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Register as soon as registration opens — summer weeks sell out fast
- Send kids in old clothes they can get muddy
- Start with a shorter program if your child is new to outdoor play
- Check for bursary programs if cost is a barrier
What to Bring
- Old clothes that can get dirty and muddy
- Sturdy waterproof boots
- Rain gear (programs run rain or shine)
- Full water bottle and packed lunch
- Bug spray and sunscreen
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$200-$500+ CAD per child per week for camp programs.
Tips to Save
- Register early for possible early-bird pricing.
- Check for sibling discounts and bursary programs.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Monday
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- Closed
- Thursday
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
