Non-Profit & Organized Groups

Students taking an early winter hike in the Ganaraska Forest
A student holds a salamander in the Ganaraska Forest

Enjoy Your Visit to the GFC!

Nestled in the 11,000-acre Ganaraska Forest, the Ganaraska Forest Centre (GFC) offers a scenic and relaxing venue for your group’s next weekend retreat or camping experience. The forest and its many trails along with our facility rentals offer a unique opportunity for your group to explore and enjoy the natural world.

Throughout the year, we provide various groups, like Girl Guides, Cadets and Scouts, use of our campsite and rental facilities on weekends. Please see our Availability Calendar to choose your next weekend getaway.

In addition to a stunning Great Hall with a beautiful stone fireplace and several beautiful breakout rooms, the GFC boasts 20 dormitory style bedrooms that can accommodate 80 individuals for an overnight stay. Organizers can stay in separate suite accommodations with private bathroom facilities. We even have high-speed fibre internet to ensure that you have the best internet connection to serve your group event needs!

If you wish to plan an organized group event in the forest as well as book a stay at the GFC, you will need to submit a Ganaraska Forest Special Event Permit Application. For those looking to only book a rental at the Ganaraska Forest Centre, please contact the GRCA for more information. GRCA staff will help you choose the perfect facility rental package for your group needs and guide you through the booking process.

Facility Rental Options

A variety of rental options are available depending on your group size and needs.

Groups can book for either a full weekend or a single day. Choose to stay in a combination of dormitory style rooms, add camping, or book the weekend kitchen to cook your own meals. We do everything we can to accommodate your group's individual needs.

Two of our most popular full weekend packages available are:

 Full Weekend Rental Packages (Arrival Friday @ 5:00pm – Departure Sunday @ 12:00pm)

Planning Information

Please check out our Weekend Group Planning Information to assist you in preparing for your GFC visit.

The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority reserves the right to hold special events at the GFC during the period of your group’s visit. If such an event is scheduled during your visit, your group will receive as much advance notice as possible and every effort will be made to avoid conflicts of use.