Camp is a chance for Muslim boys and girls to share outdoor activities under the umbrella of Islam while learning to be proud of being a Muslim.
We are creating a fun and safe space for Muslim kids, but we are also creating a safe space for alternative and progressive interpretations of Islam. We do not see Islam as a fixed set of rules and practices, but a living practice that we are constantly seeking to improve and redefine. We welcome Muslims of any school or practice without judgement, though we do not seek to conform our practice to any established madhab or school of thought.
Camp Deen was founded in 1973 when the first few Muslim immigrants in Toronto longed for a wholesome camp experience for their children. On the Mission & History page, you will find a timeline of Camp Deen's history - researched and compiled by Camp Deen's very own Uncle Murray, author of Minarets on the Horizon; a historic account of the Muslim Pioneers of Canada.
Over the course of 50 years, Camp Deen has grown an inter-generational network of kindred Canadian-Muslims with a shared goal of serving God and leading our children. Many of our volunteers and staff were former campers themselves, and many campers are children of former campers --some are even children of former campers that met at Camp Deen!
Formal religious sessions and religious instruction are not the primary focus of the Camp, but our faith and beliefs inform everything we do at camp. The camp also follows a traveller's schedule for performing the five daily prayers. Modesty and respectful behaviour are promoted. Outward expressions of faith are respected, but are a personal choice. Waterfront activities and cabins are strictly separated by gender but there are many opportunities for campers to interact in a supervised setting during mealtimes and other activities.