Camp is over for 2025. In 2026 VYF is going on tour and there will likely not be a camp in August of 2026. Check back later to see about camp in 2027.

We have left the 2025 info here so you can get an idea what camp is all about.

About the Northwest Fiddle Camp Experience

Whether you're here to hone your musical skills, connect with fellow musicians, or simply enjoy a week in nature, Northwest Fiddle Camp offers a welcoming and inspiring environment.

A Typical Day at Camp

Each day at Northwest Fiddle Camp is a mix of music, relaxation, and fun. Mornings start with a hearty breakfast in the lodge dining hall, followed by instrument classes and electives. Whether you're working on a fiddle tune, learning a new chord progression on guitar, or exploring a different instrument, there's something for everyone.

Afternoons bring a balance of structured learning and free time. You might join a group jam session, take a break on the lodge deck overlooking the lake, or head out for an adventure—canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, or even trying the zipline. As the sun sets, the camp comes alive with evening activities like:

Rock Nest Ranch: Your Home for the Week

Staying on-site is the best way to experience camp. Tenting is included in your camp fee, with access to flush toilets and showers. Other accommodation options include:

For those who prefer off-site lodging, Smithers (40 min away) and Telkwa (24 min away) have hotels and BnBs (please note: no camp fee discounts for off-site stays).

Meals & Gathering Spaces

Your stay includes all meals, beginning with dinner on Monday evening and ending with a takeaway breakfast on Saturday. All meals are freshly prepared on-site and served cafeteria-style in the spacious main lodge, where large picture windows offer beautiful views of the lake. The dining hall can accommodate up to 200 guests, creating a warm and communal atmosphere for meals. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know on the registration form—we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

Getting to Camp

Location: Rock Nest Ranch is located 40 minutes east of Smithers, BC, just outside Houston, BC, and a short drive off Yellowhead Highway 16.

Flying In?

Smithers Regional Airport (YYD) offers daily flights with Air Canada. Once you arrive:

Car rentals are available through Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Northwest Truck Rentals, and Frontier Truck Rentals.

We may be able to help shuttle some campers who are flying in and don’t want to rent a car. Please email us in advance to see what arrangements can be made.

Driving?

Rock Nest Ranch is just minutes off Highway 16 approximately half way between Prince George and Prince Rupert.

More Information?

Looking for other ideas or wanting to extend your vacation beyond camp? The Smithers area is absolutely gorgeous with tons of outdoor activities including world class mountain bike trails, paddling and white water, salmon fishing and more. Visit TourismSmithers.com or contact the Smithers Tourist Information Centre at 1-800-542-6673 for more ideas and info.

What should I bring to camp?

Here is a list of suggested items: