The Backcountry

Keji’s backcountry, in our opinion, is where the magic begins. There are over 40 backcountry sites in the Park which are accessible only by paddling or hiking or cycling. Each backcountry site is marked with a large reflective sign and has tent pads, a picnic table, a firepit, a stack of dry firewood and a pit-toilet (aka outhouse). Each site also has a ‘bear-hang’ where you can easily attach your food-bag or barrel and raise it up a cable via a pulley system to keep it out of reach from bears, raccoons, rodents and most other wildlife.

Although I practice myself, and strongly recommend others to keep a tidy and clean campsite while remaining bear-aware, I feel the biggest threat to you and your equipment comes from the campsite mice. They have an affinity for expensive textiles such as Gore-Tex, and are especially adept at leaving droppings in your coffee mug as a thanks for the GORP found under the table.

Many of the backcountry sites are buried deep in the Kejimkujik backcountry without a direct route. This keeps out the Sunday 'bait fishermen', to borrow from Norman MacLean. These sites can be accessed by using the Park’s many portage routes and waterways.

The portage trails are well maintained and save for portages N & T, the rest are suitable for the use of portage carts if you don’t wish to lug your canoe upon your shoulders. All portage trails access and egress points are clearly marked with a large reflective Parks Canada sign displaying the letter which represents that specific trail.

Spaced at just about the distance when you feel a strong desire to biff your boat off your back you’ll find convenient ‘canoe-rests’ where you can lean your canoe and relieve your back.

The Kejimkujik Backcountry Guide is a waterproof and tear-proof map which includes all the backcountry sites and portage trails. In my opinion, this map is indispensable. You can purchase a hard copy of the Kejimkujik Backcountry Guide at Mountain Equipment Coop, The Trail Shop, The Keji Visitor Reception Centre or with us Whynot Adventure, The Keji Outfitters at Jake's Landing (you can order it here and we'll ship it to you!).

In the mean time, while you're waiting for your map to arrive in the mail, you can get a head start on planning your trip by viewing the Backcountry Guide as a digital medium at the following link:

• Parks Canada Kejimkujik Backcountry Guide Page

Please note the map which downloads with the above link can be used with the Avenza App on your mobile device. It will combine the map with the mobile device's GPS ability to show you where you are, record distances and record tracks! How cool is that?

Although a digital version is super neat, please don't be fooled into thinking it is an appropriate substitute for the waterproof, tear-proof hard copy!

5 Important Bits of Backcountry Etiquette

1. Pack out your trash (this includes the burned cans and tinfoil in the fireplace)
2. Don't leave newspapers and beer boxes in the wood shed (refer to #1)
3. Do not harvest (living or dead) resources for fires or camp craft
4. Do wipe up if your aim was a touch off in the pit-toilet (outhouse)
5. Do not litter natural beaches (or anywhere, for that matter) with rock cairns and Inuksuks