OVERNIGHT RESIDENT CAMPS
Northern California (& a few beyond) – including family camps,
internships & international programs
Updated 6/11/2013
by Tom Lent
60+
camps … Have fun!
Age: When grades instead of age are listed it generally means
the program is for kids entering those grades in the coming fall. (CIT indicates
the camp has a Counselor In Training program. A number after CIT indicates the
minimum age or entering grade for CIT participants. Check with other programs
also. Ask. Many more than I know offer CIT programs. See end of listings for
family camps.
Reviews: Two camps have reviews that were provided by
Berkwood Hedge parents from their experiences during the summers of 1995
through 2001. The parenthetic numbers indicate the number of reviews and which
year they apply to (2-99 means two reviews from the summer of 1999). I no
longer have the time to collect and collate additional reviews. See http://parents.berkeley.edu/recommend/summer/
for continuing reviews of some of these camps.
Dates: Length of sessions and dates they are scheduled.
Ratio: Camper to counselor ratio
Cost: To make comparison easier, unless otherwise stated, all
listed costs are per week, even if sessions are multi-week unless
otherwise noted. Discounts & scholarships: Some organizations
have reduced rates for early registration or for members. Many programs have
scholarships for low income families. Be sure to ask before you assume you
can't afford a program. Also check out the "campership" program of
the East Bay Regional Parks (510) 544-2212
Deadline: FCFS
means rolling admissions "first come, first served.
Info: All phone numbers are area code 510 unless otherwise
indicated.
NOTE: I am no longer able to comprehensively update
information for all camps each year but am keeping the date and cost
information in here from past years as a rough guide to you. Please visit the
camp web sites for up date information. Parenthetic numbers at the end (03)
indicate the year in which the dates and prices were last updated.
Want to
add a new camp or correct a current camp listing?
Submit a new camp
or update at Updates
& New listings
Other
comments? E-mail them to me: tominfo@igc.org
Return to Summer
Camp Guide for more Information about this guide and for links to
the annual
summer camp fair and more sources of summer camp
information and more recent reviews by other parents.
Read about Day Camps
Return to Tom Lent’s Information Center
More listings of overnight camps can
be found at www.camping.org
*** USA based camps *** (skip to the bottom of the page for Internships and
International Programs)
Abbey Road Programs: EcoGreen environmental
studies and community service program in Santa Barbara CA and the Channel
islands and pre-college enrichment tours and SAT prep in Boston & NYC. Also
offer immersion study abroad for high school students in France, Spain, Italy, Greece,
Canada.
Age: 14-18, Dates: 2&4
wk sessions, June - August, Ratio: 8:1, Cost:
$1100-1200/wk,. Deadline: 1 week prior to trip
Info: 888-462-2239 www.goabbeyroad.com
(09)
Academic Study Associates (ASA): Academic
enrichment summer programs for high school students. College prep programs at
UC Berkeley, Columbia University, UMASS Amherst, and Tufts University.
Domestic pre-college programs at UC Berkeley and UMASS Amherst. Also study
abroad programs (see international below). Not reviewed.
Age: 9th-12th
grade, Dates 2-4 wk sessions June-August, Cost Varies by program
– please see website, Scholarship opportunities, Ratio 10:1 Deadline
FCFS,
Info: 212-796-8340 / 800-752-2250 www.asaprograms.com (07)
Acorn Soupe Camp Cabin
based environmental education camp with
nature hikes & creek exploration, arts, crafts, music &
poetry, tide pooling, star gazing, nutrition & wellness, forest ecology,
organic gardening, and campfires at Black Mountain preserve in Cazadero. Not reviewed.
Age: 8-12, Dates 5 day sessions, Sunday through
Thursday 6/24-28, 7/8-12, 7/15-19, Cost $495/wk, scholarships, discounts
for recommending a friend, Deadline FCFS
Info: 707-254-7284 www.acornsoupe.org
(07)
Action Whitewater's Summer Adventure Camp:
Campground based adventure
program based in Lotus, California on the South Fork American River. Rafting,
ropes course, hiking, swimming, flat water games in rafts and kayaks, digital
photography, ecology & wildlife exploration and excursion trips to
Desolation Wilderness or Yosemite, water parks, Gold Discovery site and
professional basketball games, Emphasis on team building, safety empowerment
and support. Camping with hot water showers and flushing toilets.. Free
shuttle to and from Sacramento International Airport. Not reviewed.
Age 12-17, Dates 1 & 2 wk sessions: 7/19 -8/16, Cost
$1125-1250/per week, Ratio 6:1 Deadline: FCFS
Info: 888-922-8466 http://www.actionwhitewater.com/camp-adventure.htm
(09)
American Dance Training Camp: Resident dance camp for girls with
jazz, funk and hip-hop dance in fully accredited Squaw Valley Academy in Squaw Valley,
CA. Includes full range or traditional activities of a summer camp plus a
mountain destination resort. All levels welcome – beginners through experienced
performers. Not reviewed.
Age: 8-17, Dates:
one week sessions: 7/16-8/5 Cost
$725/wk (sliding scale), Scholarship and work grant opportunities, Ratio 7:1, Deadline FCFS
Info: 866-383-2382; www.AmericanDanceTrainingCamp.com
(06)
AwesomeMath College campus based program for mathematically gifted
students from around the globe held at the University of Texas at Dallas. Not
reviewed.
Age: 7th-11th
grade, Dates 3 wk sessions 7/6-7/27
& 7/31-8/21, Cost $1100-1200/wk, Ratio 4:1, Deadline online test in early April
Info: (972)
883-2437 or (214) 549-6146 www.awesomemath.org
(09)
Berkeley Boosters
P.A.L. Outdoor Adventures: Refer to the day camp listings for more information on
this series of Berkeley day camps with 3 day cycling trip or 5 day and backpacking
trips both with whitewater rafting.
Age: 11-17, Dates 3 week sessions in July & August,
Cost $50-150/wk, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 845-7193 http://berkeleyboosters.org (04)
Camp Breathe
Easy: Overnight camp for low income children who have asthma
and require daily medications. Held at Camp Arroyo, Livermore, CA and sponsored
by Children’s Hospital and the American Lung Association. The goal is to
promote self-confidence and teach self-management of a chronic disease through
education, while at the same time offering traditional camp activities and
programs. Not reviewed.
Age: 8-12, Dates 4 day session 7/29-8/1, Cost $25/wk, Deadline
FCFS,
Info: 893-5474
X329 or 747-4555 X4181
bpagtakhan@alaebay.org www.alaebay.org
(07)
Cal Adventures: Specialty
overnight adventure camps backpacking in Yosemite, rock climbing near Tahoe,
sea kayaking Tomales Bay, or whitewater rafting on
the South Fork of the American River. Not reviewed.
Age: 13-17, Dates 5 & 12 day sessions, check web
site for dates, Ratio 4:1, Cost
$440-590/wk, ask about scholarships and member discounts, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 843-6157, www.oski.org
(03)
Cal Adventure Camps High Adventure Sierra Overnight Camp:
Backcountry backpacking and wilderness camping in Yosemite National Park, exploring
caves, rappelling, plus a 2 day white water rafting trip down the South and
Middle Forks of the American River
Age: 8-18 Dates 12
day session 7/20–8/1, Ratio 6:1 Cost $2195 for entire session, Deadline FCFS
Info: 925-952-4450, www.caladventurecamps.org (08)
Call of the Sea Voyage Camp Hands-on
voyages exploring the San Francisco Bay aboard the educational schooner
“Seaward” based at the Bay Model in Sausalito. Increased responsibility each day
to grow skills and develop confidence, teamwork and leadership abilities.
Age: 13-16, Dates: 3-Day, 2-Night sessions
4/12-14 & 7/26-28, 2010, Cost $350, need-based scholarships
available,
Info: 415-331-3214 www.CalloftheSea.org/voyage-camp.php (10)
Cazadero Music
Camp: Resident music program at cabin camp the heart of a
redwood grove at Cazadero in western Sonoma County 2
hours north of San Francisco. Sessions are arranged progressively by age and
ability. Musical instruction includes Orchestra, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble,
Piano, and Guitar. Campers also have a
choice of musical and non-musical electives that may include jazz
improvisation, chamber music, arts & crafts, nature, or sport. Not
reviewed.
Age: 9-18, Dates 6/17-8/3, Cost $715 - 810/wk, financial aid is available, Ratio 4:1, Deadline
FCFS early enrollment discount due 12/31
Camp Chrysalis: Camping
and backpacking programs in Big Sur, Mendocino and Sierra state parks and
forests. Environmental education, hiking, swimming, singing, whittling, games. Reviews
(1-97, 2-98, 3-99, 1-00) Well organized, great locations, experienced staff.
Loved it. Fine for first time overnight campers as well as experienced ones.
Good way to gain sense of independence.
Age: 8-14 (CIT), Dates 7 to 11 day sessions Big Sur 6/19-25
(8.5-12), Mendocino 6/29-7/8 (10-15 yr olds), Sierra 7/12-22(11-15),
Backpacking (often in Sierras but destinations vary each year) 7/26-8/2
(14-17), Ratio 6:1 max, Cost ~$750/wk ($750-$1150 for entire
session) multi-session and sibling discounts, ask about scholarships, Deadline
FCFS, some sessions fill up in March
Info: 843-6157, www.campchrysalis.com
(10)
Camp Concord: Cabin camp in the Sierras
between the shores of Lake Tahoe and Fallen Leaf Lake. Youth, teen and
family camps with traditional outdoor activities and adventures. Rafting,
archery, canoeing, arts & crafts, swimming, horseback riding, camp fires, s'mores, volleyball, soccer, and more
Age: 8-15 plus family camp for all ages (CIT); Dates: 1 week sessions 6/24 – 8/5,Cost $350-$465 (Concord resident
discounts) Ratio 5 or 6:1 Deadline: FCFS
Info: (925)
671-3273, www.cityofconcord.org/recreation/camp/index.htm (06)
COSMOS (California State
Summer School for Mathematics and Science) College campus program of astronomy,
aerospace engineering, biomedical sciences, computer science, wetlands ecology,
ocean science, robotics, game theory, and more at UC Davis, Irvine, San Diego
and Santa Cruz with field trips. For students must have achieved academic
excellence in science and/or mathematics.
Age: 9th
grade+, Dates: 7/9-8/5. Cost:
$500/wk, full scholarships available, Deadline 3/16
Info: www.ucop.edu/cosmos (05)
Digital Media Academy: College
campus program of creative technology camps at Stanford University and other
locations around country (University of Texas, Austin, San Diego, CA and
Burlington, VT). Learn video game design, music video production, extreme
sports filmmaking, 3D animation & more. Stanford accredited camp – which
means student have the option of earning Continuing Studies credit. Not
reviewed.
Age: 13-19, Dates: one week sessions 6/26-8/25, Cost: $945/wk
($50 discount before 3/31 additional fees may apply for some camps), Deadline: FCFS,
Info: 866-656-3342 www.digitalmediaacademy.org (06)
Echo Lake Youth
Camp: Tent cabin overnight program near South Lake Tahoe and
Desolation Wilderness run by City of Berkeley. Canoeing, fishing, photography,
swim, arts, crafts, basketball, volleyball, campfires, talent shows, ropes
course, dancing, lodge, nature center, dining hall. Not reviewed.
Age: 7-13 (CIT 14-15), Dates 1 wk sessions 7/6-8/21, Cost
$457/five days ($462 non resident), Deadline FCFS,
Info: 981-5150 http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=35510
(1947 Center
St. 7 AM - 6 PM) (11)
GirlVentures Summer Outdoor Adventures: Wilderness/expedition trips for girls
include backpacking, rock climbing and kayaking programs in Point Reyes and the
Sierra Nevada. Emphasis on creative self-expression curriculum, conflict
resolution, trust-building, and more. GirlVentures'
mission is to empower adolescent girls to discover their strengths, experience
success, celebrate diverse identity and explore self, community, culture, and
the environment through outdoor adventure, creative arts, and group
experiences.
Age: 7th-9th grade, Dates
2 week trips, 5 total throughout the summer, Cost $1000-$1100/wk
(substantial financial aid available -1/3 girls receive full financial aid; 1/3
receive partial), Ratio 4:1, Deadline 3/15/09
Info: www.girlventures.org,
415-864-0780 x 304 (09)
Hayward La-Honda
Music Camp: Resident music program in cabin camp at the San
Francisco YMCA Camp Jones Gulch in San Mateo County near La Honda. Orchestral,
band, ensemble and chorus programs both classical and jazz, plus arts & crafts,
swimming, softball, volleyball, badminton, horseshoes, hiking on miles of
trails, canoeing, climbing tower, archery, ping-pong, dances, social recreation
and horseback riding. Not reviewed.
Age: 6th -12th grade, Dates 1 wk
session 7/27-8/4, Cost $475/wk ($485 after 6/14) ask about scholarships,
Deadline 7/15/02
Info: 537-4871 www.lahondamusiccamp.com
(02)
Hidden Villa Farm
& Wilderness Camps: Cabin, tent and backpacking camps featuring hiking, arts
& crafts, sports, environmental projects organic gardening and
ranch/farming projects at the Hidden Villa environmental center near Los Altos.
Not reviewed.
Age: 9-18, Dates 5 & 12 day sessions vary by age
and focus, Cost $550 (5 day) $1005 (12 day)l, ask about scholarships,
Deadline FCFS
Info: 650-949-8650 www.hiddenvilla.org
(09)
High
Adventure Sierra Overnight Camp:
Camp and backpack in th4e Sierra. Hiking Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier
Point in Yosemite, Sequoia trees, whitewater rafting the American River and
spelunking deep caves in the Sierra Gold Country, Not reviewed.
Age:
8-18, Dates 12 day
sessions, 7/21 – 8/1, $2195 Deadline FCFS
Info: 925-952-4450 http://caladventurecamps.org (08)
iD Tech
Camps (iD Gaming Academy, iD
Visual Arts Academy, iD Programming Academy,
Tech/Sports & more) College campus technology program with options for gaming,
filmmaking, photography or computer studies and hybrid sports or surf and tech
combos at UC Berkeley, St. Mary's College of Moraga, Stanford, UC Santa Cruz
and other college campuses around California and the country. Gaming includes:
Modeling & Animation with Maya®, Programming for Game Consoles, Level
Design - Unreal® Engine 3 or Flash® Scripting for Web Games. Visual Arts choose
from: Film Production with Apple Final Cut Studio®, Professional Photography or
Professional Web Design. Students use industry-standard
products and leave with a portfolio.
Also day camp and weekend options.
Not reviewed.
Age: 13-18, Dates
1 & 2 wk sessions all summer, Ratio 6:1, Cost: $1249-2000,
early registration discounts available (use code WD82), Deadline: FCFS
Info: 1-888-709-TECH (8324) www.internaldrive.com
(10)
Innerspark - California State Summer School for the Arts: Arts College
campus training program in animation, visual arts, dance, music, film/video,
theatre and creative writing for talented artists at California Institute for
the Arts in Valencia, California.
Age: Dates: One month program 7/8-8/5, Cost $546/wk, scholarships available. Deadline: 2/28 Info: www.innerspark.us (06)
Jam Camp West: Cabin camp for hip
contemporary trends in music and dance including beatbox,
turntables, instrumental ensembles taught by ear, dance, vocals, percussion, steeldrum, and body percussion, plus outdoor
recreational activities in Loma Mar among redwoods, about 1.5 hours from the
Bay Area, produced by the makers of Jazz Camp West. Swimming,
volleyball, basketball, hiking, ping-pong and tetherball round out each
afternoon. An inclusive, supportive program offering fun non-competitive workshops,
taught by professional artists. Musical styles include jazz/funk, blues,
hip-hop and gospel. Jam Camp West is committed to insuring our programs, staff
and camp population celebrate our rich cultural diversity, serving children
from all socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds.
Age: 10-15 Dates: 6
day session 7/25-7/30, Ratio: limited
to 100 campers, Cost $725/wk,
scholarships available. Ratio 6:1, Deadline: FCFS
Info: 510-287-8880 www.jamcampwest.com
(10)
Camp Kesem Berkeley: Cabin camp for children with a parent who has cancer or has died from
cancer. Located in La Honda, CA. Arts and drama activities,
sports and games, rock-climbing, archery, canoeing and much more. Nightly cabin chats and an
all-camp empowerment service allow campers to speak about their experience in a
supportive environment, if they choose to. Plus two-to three-night camping trip for teens to develop self-confidence through
physical challenge, cooperation and teamwork.Pick-up and drop-off on the UC Berkeley campus.
Age: 6-16 Dates August 13-18, 2012, Cost FREE, Ratio 2:1
Deadline June 1 priority then FSFS
Info: call 495-6542,
www.campkesemberkeley.org (12)
Camp
Krem: cabin camp for children and adults
with disabilities to develop independence and self-esteem while experiencing
fun, creative and challenging activities in the Santa Cruz Mountains near
Boulder Creek CA, 12 miles from Santa Cruz, Daily swimming (in pool),
creating with many types of arts and crafts, dance, cheerleading,
sports/games and drama/skits, music, singing, rhythm band, campfires, theme
parties and dances, mini-concerts, costume parades, nature programs, hiking on
nature trails and overnight outdoor camping.. Program options include
Traditional, Main Camp programs, Outdoor Adventure Camps or Travel Camping.
Specially trained counselors, directors and specialists live-in with the
campers in small cabin groups of 6-7 with 3-4 counselors. To supervise and assist campers with daily
living skills as needed.
Age: 5-adult, Dates: 6-12 day programs 6/13 – 8/6 Ratio: 1:2 and 1:1 as needed, Cost: $726 (6 day), $847 (7 day), $1452 (12
day) for the 1:2 supervision ratio. some financial aid available,
need based. Deadline: FSFC,
Info: 510 222-6662 www.campingunlimited.com.
(10)
Lawrence Hall of Science Camps: Backpacking science trips and wildlife
biology and marine biology research stations camps around California with
interactive science explorations and recreation. Not reviewed.
Age: 8-12 (residential science)
10-16 (backpack) grade 9-12 (research station), Dates 6 day sessions
Residential 7/22-26 Backpack 7/7-12 (10-16), Wildlife Biology 8/3-8/8 (grades
9-12), Marine Biology 6/13-18 (grades 9-12) Cost $680-990/six days, ask
about partial scholarships, $40 discount for members, Deadline FCFS
research camps fill in March or April, backpack trips can fill in May or June,
sometimes there is room up to the trip
Info: 510-642-1334 www.lhs.berkeley.edu
(09)
Middlebury-Monterey Language Academy:
Residential college dormitory camp offering Arabic, Chinese, French and Spanish,
sponsored by Middlebury College and the Monterey Institute of International
Studies held at Menlo College, Atherton, CA and St. Michael's College,
Colchester, VT. All levels from beginner to advanced with round the clock
language and cultural immersion. More language exposure hours in four weeks
than in an entire year of high school language study.
Age: 7-12 grade, Dates 4 wk session,
6/28-7/26, 2008. Cost $1000 wk, Financial
aid available and discounts for 2+ children from same family, Ratio 3:1 Deadline
FCFS,
Info: 802-296-2459 www.mmla.middlebury.edu (08)
Mountain Camp: Cabin camp
with wide range of outdoor and lodge activities including ropes course, mountain biking,
backpacking, sailing, arts and crafts, wind surfing, drama, dance, archery,
kayaking, wakeboarding & waterskiing, tubing, gymnastics, fencing and
guitar.
Age: 7-15, Dates
1,2,3 & 4 wk sessions 6/15-8/23, Cost $1100/wk, early bird rates,
sibling discount, Ratio 3:1,
Info: 415-351-2267 www.mountaincamp.com (08)
Oxbow Summer Art Camp: Residential dormitory campus
camp exploring drawing,
painting, sculpture, printmaking and photography. (“no busy work crafts, no lanyards made here”).
Learn fundamentals in each media then design large project in medium of choice.
Staffed by professional artists, teachers and graduates
from fine art schools around the country. Self paced learning and
exploration of mediums in non competitive environment. Culture promotes
self-discovery, self-confidence, and creative expression, where respect of
self, others, and the environment are highly valued. No prior experience,
talent or portfolio needed. Just a desire to jump in, try new things and see
what happens.
Ages: 14-16 Dates: 2 wk sessions 7/2-8/9 Ratio: 4:1 Cost:
$1600/wk Deadline: FCFS,
Info: 707-255-6000, www.oxbowsummercamp.org (11)
Plantation Farm
Camp: Cabin camp at sustainable farm on the Sonoma Coast near
the Russian River . Riding, arts & crafts, swimming, drama, kayaking, frisbee, soccer, hiking, singing, barn dance, cookouts, tidepooling, beachcombing, fishing, boating, sheep shearing
and other farm chores and with homemade food fresh from the farm. Member of
Co-op America Green Business Network. Review
(1-00) Well organized, good staff and facility. Enjoyed it.
Age: 7-16 (also have a family camp), Dates 3-1/2 wk sessions
6/22-7/16 & 7/20-8/15, Cost $1100/wk ask about scholarships, Deadline
FCFS,
Info: 707-847-3494 www.plantationcamp.com
(09)
Pt. Reyes Science
Camp: Group cabin camp at Pt Reyes National Seashore in Marin.
Environmental education, hiking, beach exploring, crafts, science projects
& 1 night backpack trip (4 nights for 13-16). Review: (1-98)
Wonderful facility and environment. Nice counselors. Don't need to be a science
buff.
Age: 7-16, Dates 4-6 day sessions vary by age, Cost
$350/wk (7-9) $599 ($20 discount with $40 annual membership, ask for
scholarship info, Ratio 3.5:1, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 415-663-1200, www.ptreyes.org
(09)
Project Hawai'i
Teen Mentoring Camp. Cabin camp for teens to make a difference
over their summer vacation working hands on with homeless children ages 3-7.
Teens will help guide their camp buddies through various educational and
recreational activities over the 4 week program. Participants learn the
Hawaiian Culture by creating their own Authentic Lu'au
graduation where they will show off their newfound skills of learning the art
of hula, making their own ti' leaf skirts and even
making the lau lau the way
ancient Hawaiian did. Community service hours can be used towards their current
or future educational requirements while building lifelong friendships with
other teens from all over the world.
Age: 14-17, Dates 2 week or 4 week
program, 6/27-7/26 Cost $1076/wk tax
deductible, Ratio 3.5:1, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 808-987-6018, www.ProjectHawaii.org
(12)
Camp
Quest West: Cabin camp in the Sierras. Freethought for the children of atheists, humanists,
skeptics and others with a naturalistic worldview. Swimming, boating, campfires, hiking, crafts,
skits along with critical thinking, science and respect. Held at Camp Ross Relles near Nevada City. Also a
Southern CA location near Wrightwood 1 hr from LA. Not reviewed.
Age: 8-14 (CIT 15-16) Dates 1 wk session July 8-14 (North)
7/22-28 (South). Cost $485-585, ask about financial aid, Ratio 2:1 Deadline FCFS,
Info: 650-949-3192 http://campquestwest.org (12)
Redwood Adventure Camp: Tent camp along the wild and scenic river corridor of
the Eel river near Leggett in Mendocino County. Provides
leadership development, an opportunity for spiritual growth, fun and excitement
through a traditional camping program. Program focuses on the
fundamentals of outdoor living and includes activities such as crafts, nature
education, ropes course, swimming, archery, backpacking overnight and outdoor
living skills. Not reviewed.
Age: 10-17 (also have family camp options),
Dates 1 & 2 week sessions
7/12-8/1, Ratio 4:1, Cost $395 - $495/wk,
scholarships available, Deadline
FCFS,
Info: 707-703-9171 www.redwoodadventure.org (13)
Rotary
Nature Center Adventure Camp Backpack, rock climb and boating. Day camp
two days at Lake Merritt then 3 days/2 nights backpack in Point Reyes. Not
reviewed.
Age: 6-14, Dates 1 wk sessions 6/26-7/21, Time 9-3 Monday
& Tuesday then 9- Wednesday to 3 Friday, Cost $240/wk scholarships
available, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 238-3739 www.lakemerritt.org (00)
Sierra Friends Camp & Teen Leadership Camp: Cabin camp in
the Sierras. Experience rooted in Quaker values of compassion for oneself,
others, and the natural world. Arts and
drama activities, non-competitive sports and games, fun and physical daily
chores, sharing music, stories and reflection around campfires, swimming in the
pond and the nearby Yuba River. Plus two- to three-night age appropriate hiking
and camping trips to develop self-confidence through physical challenge,
appreciation of nature and spirit, skills in camping and sustainable living,
cooperation and teamwork.
Age: 9-14,15-16 for TLC, Dates
2 wk sessions 7/2-30, Cost $6-700/wk,
Discounts, scholarships and work grant opportunities, Ratio 4:1 Deadline FCFS,
Info: 530-273-3183 http://camp.woolman.org (11)
Snow Mountain Camp: Closed in 07.
Space Camp: No longer being held at Moffitt field. Only the Alabama and
Florida space camps are still open.
Info: 800-533-7281 www.spacecamp.com
(02)
Camp Saint Andrews: Cabin camp in Dardenelles
in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Traditional camp experience designed to
encourage a sense of having a closer relationship with nature in children and
of their own sense of spirituality. Founded by the St Andrews Parish in San
Bruno and now managed by Diocese of California. Archery range, ropes course,
swimming pool, arts and crafts, and of course outrageous skits at campfire
every night. Not reviewed.
Age: 8-17 (CIT 14+, Dates 1wk session
7/26/09-8/1/09, Cost (camper 8-13 $350)(Program Aid 14+ $265)(Counselor
in Training 16+ $195) plus $40-80 registration fee, Financial Aid available. Ratio
6:1. (prior to 3/1=$40, prior to 5/1=$60, after 5/1=$80)
Info: www.campsaintandrews.org (09)
Camp St. Michael:
Changed to Redwood Adventure Camp
Camp Star Bound: Cabin camp on Lake Tahoe. Performing
arts oriented camp experience with professional dance instructors, choreographers,
theater teachers, professional actors and vocal coaches, plus kayaking,
canoeing and other traditional camp fun. End week with "Glee Style"
Camp Showcase, where parents and family are invited to attend. Not reviewed.
Age: 5th-12th grade, Dates: 1 wk
session 8/5-11, Cost: $600-675, Ratio 1:10, Deadline: July 1, 2012
Info: 800-288-9197 www.campstarbound.com
(12)
Camp Tawonga: Cabin camp. Jewish
with sports, arts and crafts, ropes course, Shabbat, backpacking, teen travel
camps, swimming, boating, and drama just outside of Yosemite. Also offer
programs for families in bereavement, single parent families, gay and lesbian
families, interracial families and just adults. Not reviewed.
Age: 2nd - 12th grade (CIT 11th), Dates
1 to 3 week sessions 6/14-8/14 , Cost $1035-1180/wk, ask about
scholarships and family discounts, Deadline FCFS
Info: (415) 543-2267, www.tawonga.org
(09)
Tech Trek: College campus math/science program
for girls to develop self confidence at Universities around California.
Hands-on activities and labs in classes such as Biology, Geology, Engineering
(bridge building), Marine Biology, Orienteering (math), Solar Energy, Physics
(roller coasters, hot air balloons), Forensics, Chemistry (manufacturing
make-up!), Math and Geometry, Computers (film editing) and Space Science, plus
field trips and visits from professional women in different fields. Not
reviewed
Age: 8th
grade, Dates 1 week sessions varies by location 6/19-8/13, Cost scholarship supported by AAUW girls
selected from recommendations
for the program by middle school science or math teacher, Deadline
4/4
Info: 916-448-7795,
http://www.aauw-ca.org/index.cfm?go=pages.view&pagesid=338&parent=197&coparent=338
(11)
Teen Treks: Bike trips along the CA coast and all over the
USA, Canada & Europe. Started as an American Youth Hostel
program. Self contained trips ride on roads
and bike paths and stay at hostels, campgrounds & hotels. Trip options
range from easy to moderate to challenging.
Age: 12-18, Dates 1-8 wk
trips all summer, Cost $650-1000/wk, Deadline FCFS
Info:
716-566-7098 www.teentreks.com (12)
Trackers Earth
Summer Camps: Nature camps with wilderness
survival and adventure skills, and emphasis teamwork, outdoor
skill-building, bonding, getting dirty, environmental respect and deep
appreciation for the natural world in Marin, Oregon and Hawaii. Participate in
one of fours Guilds: the Rangers, Wilders, Mariners and Artisans.
Age 9-18, Dates
1 wk sessions 7/5-9/2, Cost Average $595/wk, early bird discount,
Info
866-374-0651 http://trackersbay.com/youth/summer-camps.php (11)
Camp Unalayee: Backpacking camp
in the Trinity Alps of Northern California. Archery, dance, arts and crafts,
cooking, nature study, orienteering, rock climbing, swimming, canoeing,
sailing, day hikes, sweat lodge, ultimate Frisbee, basketball, volleyball,
soccer, swim races and capture the flag, climbing wall, stargazing, plus
backpacking trips. Bus service from bay area included.
Age: 10-17 (CIT 16 & 17), Dates 9 & 15 day sessions 6/30-7/8, 7/15-29, & 8/1-8.15 Ratio 4:1, Cost, $888/wk scholarships available. Committed to making camp
affordable for all children, Deadline
FCFS
Info: (866) 805-6901 www.gocampu.org
(12)
Via West Campus (formerly Camp Costanoan):
Year-round day and
residential programs for children and adults with physical and/or developmental
disabilities and special needs on campus located in the foothills of the Santa
Cruz Mountains in Stevens Creek County Park, 15 miles west of San Jose and 45
miles south of San Francisco. Emphasize “Living Healthy” themes that include
nutrition, physical activity, health awareness and self-management. The
facility has six modern and accessible sleeping lodges equipped with bathrooms,
showers and heaters, a main lodge where dining and large group programs take
place, two pools (one of which is fully accessible), a health center, fire
circle, creative arts and performing arts buildings, a sports court, nature
pavilion, horse corral, platform tent site and hiking and nature trails.
Age:
5 yrs old and above; CIT program (16) Dates: 3
day sessions in fall and spring (September-May); 3,5, and 7 day programs during
summer (June-August); Cost: dependent upon counselor to participant
ratios and length of session: fall and spring $533-$639; Summer $579-$1761; Day
sessions $125-$200; Ratios: 3:1, 2:1, 1:1: Private pay, scholarship and
limited regional center spaces available. Deadline FCFS, regional center
spots fill quickly suggest register early
Info:
408-243-7860 www.viaservices.org. (13)
Wellspring Adventure Lake Tahoe: Weight loss
residential camp in Incline Village, north Tahoe. Based at Sierra Nevada
College, just blocks from the Lake, Wellspring Lake Tahoe combines comfortable
dorm accommodations with daily adventure and sports activities. Through
exercise, nutrition and culinary lessons, healthy low-fat meals, weekly
meetings with a trained behavior coach and lots of fun, campers learn how to
lose weight and how to keep it off in the future. Perfect
camp for families looking to combine a summer of adventure with valuable life
lessons and health improvements.
Age: 11-18, Dates 3, 6 or 9 weeks starting on 6/10, 7/1
and 7/22 Cost $1380/wk, Discounts available, Ratio
3:1 Deadline FCFS,
Info: 559 356 4382 http://www.wellspringcamps.com/laketahoe
(12)
Camp Winnarainbow: Circus cabin camp. Circus
and performing arts, swimming (incl. 350' water slide), arts & crafts in
Laytonville 3 hrs N of SF in Mendocino. Run by Wavy Gravy. Reviews
(1-98,1-99) well organized, good facility and staff. Loved it.
Age: 7-14 (Adult camp also in June!). Dates 1 & 2 wk sessions
6/22-8/22, Ratio 5:1, Cost $775/wk, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 510-525-4304 www.campwinnarainbow.org
(09)
Youth Empowered Action Camp (YEA Camp) Cabin camp in youth leadership and
activist training with tools to initiate social change located at the Venture
Retreat Center in Pescadero. Campers choose an issue
of importance to them - such as climate change, homophobia, or racism - and
build knowledge, skills, confidence, and community to impact that issue when
they get home. Workshops and lots of games to help them think strategically
about their issues, plan campaigns, effectively communicate,
use Theater of the Oppressed, and more, plus arts activities, poetry, hiking,
dance parties, and lots of fun. After YEA, past campers have started school
clubs, made a documentary music video, held fundraisers, organized call-ins to
Congress, gotten better food in their school cafeteria, and more. Organic vegan food. YEA also operates a camp outside
Portland, OR and one in Lanoka Harbor, NJ.
Age
12-17, Dates 1 week sessions, 7/14-7/21 for CA, Cost $975
(scholarships available), Ratio 2.5:1 limited to 32 participants/week, Deadline
FCFS,
Info (503)347-0223 www.yeacamp.org
(13)
YI Wild: Yosemite: Environmental education cabin camp and backpacking.
Work with wilderness professionals and park scientists in Yosemite National
Park, including backpacking, whitewater rafting, wilderness leadership, rock
climbing, and scientific field research. Also have field research programs for
16-20 year olds.. Not reviewed.
Age: 13-18, Dates 9 -14 day sessions, dates vary by age Ratio: from 4:1 to 7:1 Cost
$1175-1550 for 8-11 days, special almost full scholarship program for young
woman age 15-18, Deadline FCFS
Info: 209-379-9511, www.yni.org
(07)
YMCA Camp
Campbell: Cabin Camp in the Coastal Redwoods of the Santa Cruz
Mountains. Swimming, climbing, high ropes, archery, sports, arts and crafts,
hiking, gardening, photography, radio station, music, campfire, games, skits,
songs, teen leadership camp, Adventure Camp, CITs, mini camp,
1 week, 2 week sessions. Focus on values, lifelong friends, independence,
confidence, acceptance, gratitude and teamwork. Family Camps & Parent-Child
Weekends year-round. ACA Accredited.
Age: 2nd-12th
grade, Dates: 4 day, 1 wk & 2 wk sessions 6/16-8/9,
Cost:$225-540/wk,
financial aid available, Deadline: FCFS
Info: 831-338-2128,
hwww.ymcacampcampbell.org (13)
YMCA Camp Gualala: No longer
operated by the Y (13)
YMCA Camp Jones
Gulch: Cabin camp. Canoeing, swimming, archery, horse back
riding, climbing tower, zip line, field sports, disc golf, two sports fields,
basketball, music shell, environmental center with straw bale classroom and
alternative energy models, organic garden, ropes course in the Redwoods south
of San Francisco between La Honda and Pescadero.
Focus on building independence, self esteem and friendship building skills in
safe environment. Travel camp trips kayaking on Lake Tahoe, rock climbing, backpacking
in Yosemite, surfing and horse camp available for teens (11-16). Jones also
hosts a family camp on Labor Day weekend and in October plus Hayward-La Honda
Music Camp, Not reviewed.
Age: 6-16
(LIT/CIT 15), Dates: 1 wk sessions
6/28-7/31 for regular camps, specialty teen camps in august Rratio:
5:1 Cost: $505-695 scholarships
available, Deadline FCFS,
Info: (650)
747-1200 www.campjonesgulch.org
(09)
YMCA Camp Loma Mar: Cabin camp in the redwoods on the
northern edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains in San Mateo County near the ocean.
Swimming, nature hikes, zip line, a climbing wall, archery, arts and crafts,
camp games, basketball, and exploration in and along Pescadero
Creek. Rookie Camp is a four-day, three-night camp, perfect for the first-timer
second or third grader who is "iffy" about going to a sleep-away
camp. Family Camp is offered at the end of the summer, and conference and
retreat facilities are available all year.
Age: 7-17, Dates
1 week sessions (some 2 week sessions and some 3 night 4 day options for first
time campers ), 7/1 -8/11 (varies for age groups), Cost $252-588/wk,
sliding tiered scale with scholarships available, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 650-879-0223, www.camplomamar.org (10)
YMCA Camp Ravencliff: Cabin camp. Archery, swimming,
songs, games, arts and crafts, wilderness hikes, canoeing and spending a night
in the back woods cooking their food over a campfire and sleeping under the
stars in Southern Humboldt on the Eel River. Not reviewed.
Age: 7-18 (CIT high school), Dates 1 week sessions, 7/11–8/7, Cost
$400-550/wk, scholarships available, Deadline FCFS
Info: 925-371-8401, www.campravencliff.org (09)
Young Actor’s
Theatre Camp: Cabin camp for drama at YMCA Camp Loma Mar in the
redwoods on the northern edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains.. Not reviewed. Daily
classes in acting, voice, dance and musical theatre. Master Classes with actors and casting
directors who work in television and film in Hollywood and on Broadway. Instructors in 08 include Lucas Grabeel, Ryan from "High School Musical", Valerie
Azlynn, from CBS's "Welcome to the
Captain", Woody Schultz from "Beowulf" and NBC Casting Director
Josh Einsohn. All levels are encouraged.
Age: 8-18 (CIT), Dates 1 week session, 6/22–7/2, Ratio: 3:1, Cost $695-895/wk,
scholarships & family multi child discounts available, Deadline FCFS
Info: 925-858-3548, www.YoungActorsTheatreCamp.org (08)
***Family camps***
Cazadero
Performing Arts Family Camp: Family program at cabin camp the heart of a redwood
grove at Cazadero in western Sonoma County 2 hours
north of San Francisco. Incorporates music, drama, writing, art, swimming,
fresh food, nightly performances, jam sessions and dancing.
Age:1-100 Dates 1 wk
sessions 8/5-18, Cost $450-760/wk +
$60-120/family fee, discounts for cabin sharing or tenting, financial aid is
available, Deadline FCFS. early enrollment
discount 4/1
Info: 510-290-9349 http://www.cazfamilycamp.org
(13)
Plantation Family
Camp: Cabin camp at sustainable farm on the Sonoma Coast near
the Russian River. Riding, arts & crafts, swimming, drama, kayaking, frisbee, soccer, hiking, singing, barn dance, cookouts, tidepooling, beachcombing, fishing, boating, sheep shearing
and other farm chores and with gourmet food fresh from the farm. Member of
Co-op America Green Business Network.
Not reviewed (though youth camp is, see above)
Age: all, (also have a youth camp), Dates weekend sessions
6-18-21 & 8-20-23 & full week session 8/16-23, Cost $250-1000/wk
varies by age, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 707-847-3494 www.plantationcamp.com
(09)
Redwood Adventure Camp: Tent camp along the Eel River near Leggett, CA
in Mendocino County. Activities include crafts, nature, ropes course, horses, swimming, and
archery. All meals are included. Not reviewed.
Age: all, (also have a youth camp), Dates weekend
session 8/2-4 Cost $130-$435/weekend varies by age, Deadline FCFS,
Info: 707-703-9171 www.redwoodadventure.org (13)
Shady Creek Family Camp: Cabin camp in the Sierra foothills
near Nevada City, CA. Week and mini week family camp program. Arts/crafts,
archery, high and low ropes course, sports, pool games, talent show, Luau
Night, s'mores around the campfire, boating
(inner-tubing, waterskiing), hiking, offsite trips to historic gold mine, tie-dyed
t-shirts, tournaments. Plus Kids Corner for children and Parent's Night Out.
Age: Infant to
80. Dates: 1 wk or 4 day/3 night, 6/17-8/25. Cost:~ $2400/wk
for family of 4 (sliding scale & early
bird discount deadline 1/30/07).
Info: 800-826-7310, http://shadycreekcamp.com/familycamp.html (05)
WestCoast Connection: Wide range of dorm, hotel, and camping adventure
tour programs and sports programs around the USA (and connected with international
360 program below). Also family programs.
Age: 7th -12th grade (plus family) Dates 2-4 wk programs all summer Cost: $1400-2500/wk
Info: 800-767-0227
www.westcoastconnection.com
***
Local Internships***
Stanford University
Center for Clinical Immunology:
Summer Intern Program for biology research. consisting of lab research, lecture
and some clinical exposure. For current junior
or senior who will have completed a biology class by the end of this school
year. Housing is not provided.
Age: 12th grade or graduating, Dates: 8 weeks, Cost program provides a $1,500 stipend, Deadline: January 16, 2007.
Info: http://ccis.stanford.edu pjutz@stanford.edu or mgrantz@stanford.edu.
CHORI (Children's
Hospital Research Oakland Research Institute) Summer Student Research Program. Summer intern program for biomedical
research at CHORI in Northern Oakland. The program is open to juniors and
seniors with an interest in science who have taken at least one science course
(biology, chemistry or physics). Students will be paired with a mentor who will
guide them through a research project, will attend weekly seminars and meetings
and present their research findings at a one-day research symposium. Dates:
June 12- August 15.
Age: 12th grade or graduating Dates: 6/12-8/15, Cost inquire, Deadline:
2/1/08.
Info: http://www.chori.org/Education/Introduction/education_training.html
***
International ***
Prices do not include airfare
3600 Student Travel: Wide range of
language immersion, community service and global adventure tours in USA,
Canada, Europe, Costa Rica, Peru, Australia, Africa, Israel and China. Also
family programs.
Age: 8th -12th grade (plus family) Dates 1-4 wk programs all summer Cost: $1450-2800/wk
Info: 800.767.0227 www.360studenttravel.com (09)
Abbey Road Programs: Immersion study abroad for high school students in
France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Canada. Plus EcoGreen
environmental studies and community service program in Santa Barbara CA and the
Channel Islands and pre-college enrichment tours and SAT prep in Boston &
NYC
Age: 14-18, Dates: 2&4
wk sessions, June - August, Ratio: 8:1, Cost: $1650-2250/wk foreign, $1100-1200/wk
domestic. Deadline: 1 week prior to trip
Info: 888-462-2239 www.goabbeyroad.com
(09)
Academic Study Associates (ASA): Academic enrichment
summer programs for high school students. Study abroad programs in England
(Oxford and Cambridge Universities) and Italy (Florence). Study abroad language
immersion programs in Spain (Andalusia and Barcelona), France (Nice and Royan), and Costa Rica (Heredia). Also domestic college
prep programs at UC Berkeley, Columbia University, UMASS Amherst, and Tufts
University. Not reviewed.
Age: 9th-12th
grade, Dates 2-4 wk sessions June-August, Cost Varies by program
– please see website, Scholarship opportunities, Ratio 10:1 Deadline
FCFS,
Info: 212-796-8340 / 800-752-2250 www.asaprograms.com (07)
AFS: Summer homestay language and/or community service programs
plus semester and whole year academic exchange programs all around the world
Age: 15 and up, Dates: range from 4 wk to 1 year
programs, Cost $4500-6100 for summer
program. Not reviewed.
Info: www.usa.afs.org (07)
Amigos: Service project work in Mexico &
Central America. Usually live with a family.
Age: 16 and up, Dates: 3-1/2 to 8 wk
programs, Cost $3850 for 6 wk
program, including airfare from gateway city. Not reviewed.
Info: www.amigoslink.org (07)
Oxbridge Academic Programs Summer college campus sessions in Oxford, Cambridge and
Paris with a wide range of courses.
Age: 8th – 12th grade, Deadline (2/28 for scholarships).
Info: www.oxbridgeprograms.com
(07)
Oxford Summer
Academy Summer college campus sessions
at Oxford and Cambridge University. English Lit, Visual Arts, Classical Studies
& European Languages, and European History and International Relations,
Creative Writing, Drawing Painting and Jewelry Design, Debate and Theatre. Live
on campus.
Age: 16 and
up. Dates: 2 & 4 wk programs in
July, Cost: GBP1200-1250/wk, Deadline: FCFS, early bird fee discount
12/1, scholarships 2/1
Info: www.oxintstudycentre.com (10)
Visions: Cross-cultural summer service programs in the
Caribbean West Indies, North, Central, and South America blend hands-on hard
work, intercultural living and learning, and exploration
Age: 14-18,
Dates: 3-4 wk programs, Cost
$4600-5150 for 4 wk program
Info: www.visionsserviceadventures.com (09)
Where There Be
Dragons: Service, travel and learning
in many developing world countries led by returned Peace Corps volunteers and
teachers. Not reviewed.
Age: 15-17,
Dates: 4-6 wk programs, Cost
$5700-6850+ airfare for 4 wk program, $5950-7400 for 6 wk
Info: www.wheretherebedragons.com (10)
Windsor Mountain
Camp: wide range of programs around
the world
Age: 9th
– 12th grade
Info: www.windsormountain.org (07)
Other program
listings http://www.vfp.org/links/otherTeenOp.html
Read about Day Camps
Return to Summer Camp Guide for more information about this website
and for links to other camp listing websites
Return to Tom Lent’s
Information Center
Submit Updates & New listings
Comments? E-mail them to me: tominfo@igc.org