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Nonprofit BWCA Outfitting for Scouts, Schools, Churches & Veterans

At Packsack Canoe Trips, we proudly specialize in nonprofit Boundary Waters outfitting for Scout troops, school groups, church organizations, and veteran programs. As a family-owned outfitter on Fall Lake near Ely, Minnesota, we understand the importance of safety, education, stewardship, and affordability when introducing groups to the BWCA. Our goal is simple: help nonprofit groups plan meaningful, self-guided canoe trips while providing reliable gear, local expertise, and logistical support every step of the way.

BWCA Outfitting Designed for Nonprofit Groups

Nonprofit groups require a different approach than typical recreational paddlers. We work closely with group leaders to ensure trips are age-appropriate, skill-matched, and responsibly planned. Whether your group is experiencing the Boundary Waters for the first time or returning for an advanced expedition, our nonprofit outfitting services are tailored to support safe, rewarding wilderness travel.

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We specialize in self-guided BWCA trips, providing equipment, route advice, and logistics — while allowing your organization to lead its own experience.

Who We Serve

We proudly outfit a wide range of nonprofit organizations, including:

  • Boy Scout & Girl Scout troops

  • School and outdoor education programs

  • Church youth and adult groups

  • Veterans organizations and service groups

  • Nonprofit camps and leadership programs

Each group has unique goals, abilities, and schedules. We help match routes, gear, and logistics to your group’s mission and experience level.

Nonprofit BWCA Gear & Trip Support

Our nonprofit outfitting services may include:

  • Complete & partial outfitting

  • Canoe and gear rentals (Kevlar or aluminum)

  • Group-appropriate camping gear

  • Route and entry point guidance

  • BWCA trip planning assistance

  • Group bunkhouse lodging near the BWCA

  • Transportation to and from BWCA entry points

We focus on education, preparation, and Leave No Trace principles, helping group leaders feel confident before entering the wilderness.

Why Nonprofit Groups Choose Packsack Canoe Trips

As a longtime Ely outfitter, we believe the Boundary Waters plays an important role in teaching leadership, responsibility, and respect for the outdoors. Many of our nonprofit trips involve youth programs, first-time paddlers, and multi-leader groups, and we take that responsibility seriously.

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Nonprofit groups return to Packsack Canoe Trips because we offer:

  • Clear communication and planning support

  • Honest, straightforward pricing

  • Experience working with organized groups

  • A family-owned, service-driven approach

Planning a Nonprofit BWCA Trip

Because nonprofit trips often require additional coordination, we recommend contacting us early in the planning process. We are happy to help review group size, trip length, experience level, and scheduling considerations to ensure your trip is set up for success.

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📞 Call or email us to begin planning your nonprofit Boundary Waters canoe trip.

What’s Included in Our Nonprofit Complete BWCA Outfitting

Our nonprofit complete outfitting packages are designed to support Scout troops, school groups, church organizations, and veteran groups seeking a self-guided Boundary Waters canoe trip. Each package includes high-quality gear, meals, trip planning assistance, and logistical support—allowing your group leaders to focus on leadership development, teamwork, and wilderness experience rather than equipment logistics.

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Learn more about our standard outfitting options:
👉 Complete BWCA Outfitting

Standard Equipment & Trip Support (Included)

  • Kevlar or aluminum canoes (Wenonah, Grumman, or Northstar)

  • Paddles, PFDs, and portage yokes

  • Tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads

  • Canoe packs and food packs

  • Camp stoves, cookware, and eating utensils

Permit details:
👉 BWCA Licenses & Permits

Sunrise image over a Boundary Waters Lake.

  • Trip planning assistance and BWCA route guidance

  • Entry point and permit planning support

  • Transportation to most western BWCA entry points

  • Bunkhouse lodging before or after your trip

  • Complimentary continental breakfast

Photo of a swan taking off of the water.

2026 Nonprofit Complete BWCA Outfitting Rates

All nonprofit rates are per person, per day, and are available to qualifying nonprofit groups including Scout organizations, schools, churches, and veteran groups. A 3.5% cash or check discount applies.

Nonprofit Rates with Aluminum Canoes

  • Rates apply to fully outfitted nonprofit groups of 8 or more

  • For every 7 people outfitted, the 8th goes FREE

  • Complimentary continental breakfast included

  • Deposit: $50 per person

Nonprofit Rates with Kevlar Canoes

Kevlar canoes are recommended for longer routes and portage-heavy trips and are available at discounted nonprofit rates.

Additional Nonprofit Discounts & Considerations

  • $1.00 per person per day discount if providing your own sleeping bag

  • $1.00 per person per day discount if providing sleeping bag and pad

  • 5% returning nonprofit group discount

  • Early-season and late-season discounts may apply

Partial outfitting options for smaller groups or groups who are self outfitted:
👉 Partial BWCA Outfitting

Planning a Nonprofit BWCA Trip

Because nonprofit groups often involve youth or larger group sizes, we recommend beginning trip planning early. Our family-owned team works directly with group leaders to help choose entry points, routes, trip length, and outfitting options that match your group’s experience level and goals.

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Contact us to begin planning:
👉 Contact Packsack Canoe Trips

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