Canoe Island French Camp

Canoe Island French Camp (CIFC) provides children and families with a superior camp experience through the study of language and cultures of francophone regions, traditional camp activities, and the investigation of the natural and cultural history of Canoe Island and the Salish Sea, all in a nurturing and beautiful natural environment.

CIFC empowers campers to become their best selves and caring, committed members of both the San Juan Islands community and the wider world.

Founded in 1969, Canoe Island French Camp began as a small French-language summer program on Orcas Island. The camp later moved to its permanent home on the 47-acre Canoe Island, located just off the southern shore of Shaw Island in Washington's San Juan Islands. In 1992, the organization became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Today, campers experience the unique opportunity to live on a private island while learning about French language and francophone cultures in a supportive and engaging camp environment. The camp's blend of language immersion, arts, cultural studies, outdoor recreation, athletics, and environmental education creates a distinctive experience that engages mind, body, and spirit.

Canoe Island French Camp serves approximately 200 campers each summer through four residential camp sessions, supported by 26 seasonal staff and a dedicated year-round team. The campus also hosts school programs, family camps, retreats, and other educational and community-based events.

The camp is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) and is a member of the Western Association of Independent Camps, reflecting its commitment to the highest standards of safety, quality, and camp excellence.