Question 1

What are the York Factory overnight accommodations?

Accepted Answer

The amenities are rustic and require an adventurous spirit, they include:
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 • Polar bear proof fencing
 • Electricity run by generator
 • Outhouses nearby
 • Picnic table outside
 • Firepit
 • Potable water is supplied by Parks Canada staff for drinking
 • Radio supplied for safety
 • Polar Bear guard to escort you to the fenced camping/cabin compound.
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All tents are to be set up within the fenced compound.
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The rustic cabin has bunk beds and it includes clean mattress covers, screened windows, and a small table and chairs.
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**Tents, sleeping blankets and pillows are not provided.

Question 2

Are there Parks Canada Fees?

Accepted Answer

The York Factory National Historic Site of Canada is run by Parks Canada ()and they set the onsite fees for the grounds tour and for all overnight stays.

Overnight fees are $33.25 per person per night regardless if you are bringing your own tent or a sleeping bag for the bunk house. (This is the 2026 Parks Canada rates)
*Please note that all Parks Canada fees are to be paid directly to onsite Parks staff once arriving at York Factory. These fees do not include the Nelson River Adventures Inc boat tour fees which can be found here.()

Question 3

How long is the overnight tour?

Accepted Answer

The overnight tour is approximately a 24-30 hour turnaround from departing the Limestone boat launch to returning. Guests may stay in the bunk house or choose to tent at York Factory within the compound. 
The overnight tour allows ample time to tour York Factory National Historic Site and enjoy an exciting boat tour down the Nelson River, with brief stops for wildlife spotting and viewing of Historic Port Nelson.

Question 4

What is York Factory? Why is it a National Historic Site?

Accepted Answer

Located on a narrow peninsula where the Hayes river and the Nelson river meet the Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba, accessible only by boat or aircraft, York Factory is one of the most remote Historic Sites in Canada.

Operating between ~1684 and 1957, the site was once dubbed the 'gateway to Rupert's Land' as it was a vital fur trade hub, trading post and distribution point for more than 273 years operated by the British owned Hudson Bay Company.

The site was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1963 and is commemorated for its critical role in the French-English struggle on Hudson Bay for the control of the fur trade. The site seen repeated conflict between England and France for colonial domination of North America in the late 17th and 18th centuries; for example, between 1684 and 1713 control of the site changed hands SIX times between the English and the French.

Throughout the history of the site the involvement of the local indigenous had been integral to the operation as providers of food, furs, workers and guides when the depot was in operation. The land and survival knowledge held was invaluable.

Today the site consists of two remaining buildings: the >100 year old depot which stands as the symbol of York Factory and the library (pictured). Ruins around the area include a powder magazine, and cemetery. Artifacts of this once booming site can still be found around the grounds and along the sandy shoreline.

Question 5

Is food provided?

Accepted Answer

While you are enjoying the Parks Canada guided tour, Nelson River Adventures begins preparing bbq burgers for all guests. A light breakfast is provided the following morning.

We advise that guests on the overnight tour bring snacks for the boat ride and a light lunch.
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*Bottled drinking water is provided by the Parks Canada staff.

Question 6

Why visit Gillam and York Factory National Historic Site?

Accepted Answer

Gillam, Manitoba, is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Some attractions include the Nelson River, Gillam Island, Port Nelson, and the oldest standing building on permafrost: The York Factory depot building. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife sightings of polar bears, beluga whales, caribou, seals, and wolves in the area which are often seen on the boat ride to and from York Factory NHS.

Frequently Asked Questions