Canoe Island French Camp was founded in 1969 by the late Dr. and Mrs. Warren Austin when they could not find a French camp on the west coast for their daughter.  First established for just a few weeks each summer on Orcas Island, the French Camp moved to the Austin's beautiful new facility on the 47-acre Canoe Island located just off the southern shore of Shaw Island.  The Austins continued to play a vital role in the camp's mission, program, finances and publicity until their deaths in 1990s.

In 1992 the Austins established the camp as a 501(3)(c) non-profit camp and set up a modest trust to help maintain the facility in order to continue their dream of an island French camp.  Today it is run by a board of directors and led by an Executive Director and Camp Director.  

Because of their vision, today's youth have the opportunity to take part in this unique experience of living on a private island, learning about France, its language and culture while participating in all the fun of a classic Northwest summer camp.  The blend of fine arts, performing arts, language, culture, sports, and outdoor activities melds the activities of mind, body and spirit into the best of a liberal arts education. 

Canoe Island French Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, and is a member of the Western Association of Independent Camps, which means it meets the highest standards of camp excellence.

Vision

Canoe island French Camp promotes leadership, diplomacy, learning, cultural understanding, and fun in an extraordinary, natural and beautiful environment.

Mission