Camp History

Kilcoo Camp was founded in 1932 on the shores of Haliburton's Gull Lake by Torontonian Charles F. Plewman.

As a young camper, John "Chief" Latimer began his career at Kilcoo at the age of eight in 1938 and continued his career as a camper, leader-in-training, counselor and program director until the fall of 1955, when he purchased the camp from Mr. Plewman.

Chief, along with his wife Peggy (Mrs. Chief), directed Kilcoo until 1981. Chief stayed very active with Kilcoo through the years as the directorship was passed down to his son David. On April 22nd 2003, Chief passed away after a short battle with cancer. His passion for Kilcoo will be missed, but it will always be celebrated through the joy of time spent at Kilcoo. Peggy (Mrs. Chief) Latimer remains the owner and is still actively involved in managing the business.

David "LUB" Latimer has recently completed his 21st year as director of Kilcoo Camp. David's wife, Beth, and his brothers Jeffery and Michael also lend their support to the camp and to the Kilcoo community.

Since 1932, Kilcoo has drawn campers from many countries throughout the world, including the United States , Central and South America, England, France, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain and several others.

During the past thirty years or so, Kilcoo has enjoyed the continuing loyalty of campers and staff who keep 'coming back', creating a waiting list by early January every year.

The majority of staff have been campers who have felt the joy, happiness and security of their summer experiences.

Kilcoo enjoys its reputation as one of the foremost camps for boys in Canada, it is truly a "Maker of Men".