Residential Camps in California
Providing Unique Settings and Activities For Children To Expand Their Horizons
From the beautiful Redwood Forest to the sparkling beaches of Malibu, California camps have the qualities that both parents and kids are looking for. California camps specialize in providing your child with an adventurous, fun-filled, and life changing experience in a variety of themes.
The following are some highly recommended camps within the state of California. These programs have passed 300 stringent standards and thus are accredited by the World Camp Association and the American Camping Association.
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SuperCamp is the summer enrichment program that parents and kids love! Now in our 31st year and with over 60,000 graduates worldwide, we'll give your son or daughter the skills, added confidence, motivation and character direction to flourish. SuperCamp can give your son or daughter an academic and personal edge at its exciting 7-10 day academic summer programs held on prestigious university campuses worldwide. All programs promote an "I can do it" atmosphere in which learning occurs without stress and frustration. Music, games and an attitude of celebration throughout the program make the learning process fun and easy and help students reach beyond the boundaries set by themselves and others. Life-skills courses such as Communication, Problem Solving and an Outdoor Adventure Day develop self-confidence and increase motivation.
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THE CAMP OF CHOICE! Campers design their own summer by choose from 16 amazing morning specialties and over 50 incredible afternoon electives! Top facilities. World Class staff and great evening activities. Coed Ages 9 - 16
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Experience North America's #1 summer technology programs. Over 100,000 students ages 7-18 have created video games, websites, movies, iPhone and Facebook apps, robots and 3D animations. Teen Programs at select locations: iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy and iD Visual Arts Academy. Also, year-round learning iD 365 free online workshops. For details and specials visit www.internalDrive.com or call 1-888-709-TECH(8324). Save with code WD64.
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Experience North America's #1 summer technology programs. Over 100,000 students ages 7-18 have created video games, websites, movies, iPhone and Facebook apps, robots and 3D animations. Teen Programs in the Bay Area: iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy and iD Visual Arts Academy. Also, year-round learning iD 365 free online workshops. For details and specials visit www.internalDrive.com or call 1-888-709-TECH(8324). Save with code WD64.
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Offers kids a summer of fun, packed with adventure; with convenient, flexible scheduling for busy parents.
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Since 1950, the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program has offered intensive workshops in dance, film, music, theatre, visual arts and writing to students of all ages and abilities.
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NO LANYARDS MADE HERE! The Oxbow art camp offers youth ages 13 to 16 year-olds a chance to explore a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, sculpture, installation and digital & darkroom photography while receiving inspiration, guidance, and support. Unlike some ideas about art camps, we don't do busy craft projects. Staff are professional artists and teachers. After learning fundamentals in each media in our state-of-the-art studios, students design a large project in the medium of their choice. They are encouraged to seek their own personal expression, take risks, learn at their own pace and broaden their horizons. They learn, not only HOW to make art, but also WHY to make art. Our goal is to nurture creativity, develop self-confidence & enhance art skills in a non-competitive, safe, fun environment with fellow like-hearted art "geeks". What could be more FUN! No prior experience, talent or portfolio needed… just a desire to jump in, try new things and see what happens.
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GAME ON! Immerse in the dynamic world of video game development! Teens choose from one of four game design courses: Modeling & Animation with Maya, Programming for Game Consoles, Level Design-Unreal Engine 3 or Flash Scripting for Web Games. Learn first-hand how industry professionals create premier commercial video games. Get ready for late-night gaming tournaments and tour a game studio. Locations include Stanford University, Villanova University, Emory University, Lake Forest College and the University of Washington. Inquire about accredited Continuing Education Units. Alumni can hone their skills before and after summer with iD 365 – Endless Summer, complimentary online workshops lead by live instructors year-round. Visit www.iDGamingAcademy.com or call 888-709-TECH (8324) for details and specials. Additional technology and gaming camps are available at over 60 prestigious universities nationwide at iD Tech Camps (North America’s #1 Tech Camp). Save/code WD64.
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Filmmaking, Web Design and Photography! Teens choose from one of three courses: Film Production with Apple Final Cut Studio, Professional Photography or Professional Web Design. Take your hobbies further with this 2 week summer Academy. Students use industry-standard products like Photoshop, Lightroom, After Effects, Final Cut Pro 7, DSLR cameras, Flash, Dreamweaver and Wacom Pen Tablets. Graduates leave with a portfolio and the tools to excel in the rapidly changing field of visual arts. Participate in fun, supervised excursions and visit nearby studios to see how the pros work. Locations include Stanford University and McGill University in Canada. Inquire about accredited Continuing Education Units. Alumni can hone their skills before and after summer with iD 365 – Endless Summer, complimentary online workshops lead by live instructors year-round. Please note that there are other filmmaking, photography and web design courses offered at iD Tech Camps. Save w/code WD64.
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Join us at our beachfront campus this summer for our five week academic program, three week recreational camps, or our one week surf camps.
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Explore the wonders of the universe. Qualified staff lead campers on high tech, science adventures in a mountain setting.
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At an elevation of over 6800, Camp AT is surrounding by provides the opportunity to make friends, have new adventures, and enjoy old traditions. Non GS welcome
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Beautiful mountain ranch camp teaching responsibility for oneself & others in a noncompetitive supportive environment.
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Since 1938, residential summer camp serving children, teens & families affected by type-1 diabetes. Providing innovate programs combining education & recreation
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A Los Angeles County outdoor science school site, Blue Sky Meadow also offers summer camp for middle-schoool students and environmental science programs.
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Wooded hills close to city. Arts, drama, dance, leadership, fashion, music, writing. General camp programs for less-experienced campers. Indoor/outdoor sleeping
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The Paintrock canyon program is a 4 year youth development program that strives to empower youth to achieve their potential by building self confidence.
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Summer resident camp for children & adults with developmental disabilities.
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Explore Jewish concepts and various outlets of expression celebrating many facets of Jewish life. Specialty programs: athletic, artistic, wilderness. Kosher.
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A unique, social & recreational opportunity with peers. International & American counselors provide caring guidance.
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Lake Tahoe's best resident camping in a safe, fun, growth oriented environment. Superior staff, incredible locations.
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For youth with diabetes & families, learn about diabetes with experiences including rock climbing, crafts, & campfires - all in a safe, nurturing atmosphere.
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Costanoan is a residential, respite & recreational camp for children & adults with disabilities. Our mission is to help campers achieve greater self-sufficiency
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A fun oriented camp surrounded by the beautiful national forest. The YMCA camping program builds strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
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Camp del Corazon is a non-profit organization providing a free medically supervised residental camp for children ages 7-17 who are suffering from heart disease.
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Camp offers traditional YMCA camping activities. Located in the beautiful Angeles National Forest just minutes away from Mountain High Ski Resort and Wrightwood
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Mountain setting. Traditional program plus specialty activities for 7th-11th grades. Overnights in meadow and camp outposts.
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We offer an integrated camp expereince with disabled & able-bodied campers in a unique desert surrounding. Explore abilities while overcoming social boundries.
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Christian camp serving inner city children primarily ages 7-12.
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An overnight camping experience for homeless & underprivileged children giving them a break from their daily struggles.
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Traditional camp for girls 6-17 with emphasis on nature, crafts and social skills. Parent-child weekends in the spring.
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Beautiful Malibu; caring environment, every camper counts; emphasis on Jewish culture; outdoor adventure, nature & fun.
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Santa Cruz Mountains, residential summer camp for children and adults with disabilities. Traditional, free-choice programs, cabin, outdoor and travel camping.
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Weight loss, Fun, Fitness & Friendships . Beautiful beach setting. Non-competitive sports. Caring, specialized staff. Improved Self-Esteem. 2 year follow-up.
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Beautiful mountain camp, sleep under the stars. Excellent leadership and equestrian programs. Heated pool.
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Camp Laurel is a camp for children living with HIV/AIDS. Camp Laurel strives to increase each child's self-esteem and self-worth.
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Camp Max Straus is a resident summer camp providing recreational activities for underprivileged children between the ages of 7-12, residing in Los Angeles Cnty.
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Boys & Girls Club of San Francisco programs designed to instill, strengthen leadership skills. Through outdoor programs youth are taught respect, responsibility
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Sierra Mt setting, traditional specialized programs open to all girls with emphasis on self-esteem, team bldg & values.
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Jewish residental summer cmap serving children entering grades 3-11. Kosher. Features ropes course, climbing tower, mountain biking, sports, arts, theater.
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Boys and girls,ages 9-12, will enjoy 5 fun-filled days of a great outdoor experience. Children are separated by age & gender and sleep in fully enclosed cabins.
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At Camp Oakes character counts: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are pillars to live by. All are welcome.
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In the forest overlooking the ocean, our 'Ocean Adventures' summer camp is agreat blend of nature and adventure. Your 8-15 year old will make new friends.
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A special place for children with cancer and their siblings. Family weekends
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Located 45 miles east of San Diego, we offer a camping experience for youth of all backgrounds. Exploring nature, developing social skills, lasting memories.
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Girl Scout resident camp over 65 years of tradition, girl planned program in Big Bear Lake. Serves girls grades 2-12.
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Traditional camp program designed for people with special needs.
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Camp Pendola offers traditional summer camp experiences for girls and boys. Catholic values are practiced in community living.
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A summer camping experience for cancer patients & their siblings ages 4-18. Camp is free of charge to San Diego & Imperial County residents.
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Camp ReCreation is a non-denominational residential summer camping program serving Northern California children and adults with developmental disabilities.
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Camp Rocking U is dedicated to providing a healthful, structured and comfortable environment where friends can be made and lifetime memories created.
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Camp Ronald McDonald is a residential summer camp for children and adults with special needs.
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Cost free, medically supervised, year-round camps for children with cancer & their families.
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Located in the High Desert outside Palm Springs. Cabins, lodge, 2 lakes, pool & tents nestled below Pacific Crest Trail.
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Spiritual growth, leadership development & an experience of Christian living through a rugged & rustic camping program
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Program emphasizes community, discovery & creativity. Beautiful 260 acre wooded site at 4200' in the Cuyamaca Mountains.
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Friendly mountain camp, Horseback riding, crafts, camping, skills, swimming, and pioneer crafts. Family camp also.
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Tawonga is near Yosemite National Park on the lovely Tuolomne River. We focus on self-esteem, appreciation for nature, & fostering positive Jewish identity.
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Multicultural, backpacking, wilderness skills, canoeing, leadership training, rock climbing, arts & crafts, fun.
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Day and Boarding Camp. Emphasis on learning & fun. Mature staff provide expert instruction in athletics, the arts, horsebackriding, biking, & outdoor living
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Camp Whittier is a 55 acre retreat center offering teambuilding, outdoor education & children's summer camp. Join us in the beautiful Santa Barbara Mountains.
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N. California's Circus & Performing Arts Camp. Dance, gymnastics, drama, juggling, unicycle, stilts, trapeze, sports. Tipi living. Lake with 350' water slide.
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Warm, supportive, caring staff. Camp fun, Christian values, campfires. Spirit filled counselors, worship & Bible study.
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CCSC is one of the only sleep-away sports camps in California. Campers build confidence, independence and learn teamwork in a non-competitive environment.
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Catalina Island Camps provides unique opportunities for campers to develop lifelong skills in a fun and cooperative group living environment.
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Have fun and explore Catalina Island. SCUBA, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, marin science, island ecology, underwater photography and video, mtn biking, fun.
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Camp Cedarbrook-Northern California is a non-denominational Christian camp. Our program consists of small cabin groups and mature staff.
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A unique Christian camp, offering separate camping experiences for girls & boys.
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The Channel Islands YMCA is a charitable organization providing programs based upon Christian principles to men women and children of all ages, races, religious beliefs and economic status to develop and enrich the spirit, mind, and body.
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A lay organization whose mission is to serve children by providing outdoor experiences that build self-esteem.
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Traditional camp w/riding, pool, mtn bikes, archery, tennis, ropes course, batting cage, soccer. Resident RN. Coed fun, safe & challenging.
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We offer over 50 activities. Free choice. Our staff know every camper. Rustic setting in California's Northern Sierra.
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Minutes from Big Bear: Riflery,archery,swimming,canoeing,fencing,hiking,river walks,fishing,rafting,arts & crafts,volleyball,horseback riding, call for info
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Camp is the perfect size for young boys. Program designed for Cub Scouts but participation of all boys is welcome.
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An exciting challenging true wilderness experience in the California High Sierra on a beautiful lake. Supportive and caring guidance. Structure and free choice.
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Spectacular mountain high adventure camp. Rock climbing, boating, mountain bikes, ropes course, backpacking, windsurfing, & sailing. Family camp also offered.
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80 yr traditional, friendly, structured, fun. Focus on building self-esteem & growth in social & sport skills. 1:4 ratio
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A resident coed camp for disabled children and adults. Helps establish independence, friendships and varied recreational opportunities.
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Christian camp, serves all denominations, mountain site, open all year for all ages & interests.
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Serving people of all ages and varying degrees of vision loss, Enchanted Hills offers traditional camp programs in an accessible way.
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Escape to one of 6 unique camps - from rustic to deluxe. Nestled in a scenic canyon of the San Bernardino mountains.
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A traditional, fun, and non-competitive program with a variety of activities on the shore of beautiful Huntington Lake, Sierra National Forest, since 1933.
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Rewarding summer adv. for boys. Dynamic camp surrounded by the amenities of Griffith Park and the exciting city of LA.
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Close family atmosphere on a 500 acre mountain ranch. Home grown food, positive role model staff, a wide choice of outdoor activities. Our 72nd year of fun.
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Jay Nolan camp is an inclusive camp for children with/without autism, with emphasis on respecting differences, teamwork, and cultivating positive relationships.
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Kare Youth League & RHP
Arcadia, CA
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In the Redwoods, 5 miles from Monterey Bay. Great high ropes/climbing facility . 56 summers with original owners. Coed.
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Visit our 140-acre Malibu. CA Ranch Camp. Kids enjoy horseback riding,archery,animal care,pool,surfing,fencing,riflery,kayaking,and more. Free tours available.
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The mission of Lions Camp Teresita Pines is to provide a beautiful facilty for goup camping, emphasizing the needs of the disabled.
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Camp offers a unique year-round retreat cente r for all organizations.
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Outdoor recreation, fun,caring staff, diverse economic, ethnic backgrounds. All girl environment promotes independence & self-reliance. Life changing experience
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Nationally recognized riflery program plus mountain bikes, climbing, rappelling.
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Great location, great facility, great food, great staff.
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High Sierra adventure, educational, life experience. Beautiful lakeside mountain setting. Noncompetitive, focus on outdoor & challenge activities.
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Georgous forested ranch; acres of lush meadows & lawns; family-like envir. Advent & fun used to stimulate healthy esteem; posit. envir, individ choice 20 acti.
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Christian camp. Located in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains. Offer traditional camping with outstanding staff.
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Located near Pacific ocean & national forest. OVS offers academic classes for credit or enrichment, and activities, including art, sports, swimming & more.
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Southern California Boys & Girls Club Camp in mountains above Palm Springs.
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God-centered, life enriching, loving community for children grades 1-12 & developmentally challenged children and adults. Beautiful mtn setting. Good food, fun.
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Outdoor adventure & old-fashioned fun. Non-competetive family atmosphere. Farm life, choice of activities daily. Sonoma Coast. Summer should be this fun.
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Western horseback specialty camp in mountains east of San Diego. Spectacular trails, excellent instruction, all levels.
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Jewish environment provides perfect setting for a fun, exciting summer. We also have family & special needs programs.
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Welcome to the 'Old West'. Learn to ride in our CHA-accredited western riding program; vaulting lessons, animal care & plenty of other activities to enjoy.
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Summer program camps for ages 5-18, including music & drama camps; plus senior adult conference, ages 55+; & conferences, retreats for pastors & lay leaders.
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Family owned & operated. 60 activities, emphasis on 1st time camper, memories to last a lifetime, highly trained staff. Wonder Valley Family Camp avail in Aug.
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We are a non-profit organization helping boys build pride, self-confidnece, leadership skills, and a desire to reach their potential through a great summer camp
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Beautiful weather and many local attractions makes our camp something special. Fun in, on & out of the water.
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Boy Scout summer camp, open weekends and some holidays, family camps, new log cabins sleep 8; beautiful high desert.
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Upward Bound Summer Residential Camp prepares students for the psychological, social and academic rigors of college.
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A splash of summer excitement at SeaWorld's Adventure camps. Shamu, penguins, sharks and more. the thrills are non-stop in this animal experience of a lifetime.
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Wilderness adventure in the Tahoe Nat'l Forest for 8-17 year olds. Small, noncompetitive, near 70+ lakes & miles of trails.
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Life long aquatic skills taught, beautiful lake & ocean settings. Lmtd Enrollment. Much Individual guidance & attention.
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Traditional style camp with 63 years of tradtion. Located on a warm water lake in a pine forest. Small cabin groups and high counselor/camper ratio.
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Traditional girl's camp overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Supportive atmosphere. Special programs in horseback riding (E, W, vaulting), high adventure, beach.
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Pan Orthodox camp (under Antiochians) offering community, teaching, full liturgical life, sports, crafts, all in an Orthodox, natural context and setting.
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Camp Wrighwood's newly desigend summer program creates a place where young & old alike can be themselves. Make friends & have fun, learn new skills & confidence
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Where people of all cultures, expecially from the inner city, experience the love of Christ through excellent facilities, creative programs and loving staff.
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A summer camp and year-round care center for children with serious medical conditions and their families.
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Campers attend the Rowdy Ridge Gang Camp free of charge. You can help by making an online financial contribution donating necessary camp supplies from our Wish List or joining our Volunteer Team. Contact Scott Newman Center at 800-783-6396
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70 Miles from LA, summer & winter programs for 1st - 12th grades. Rental facilities for church and para-church groups.
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The official charity of the students of UCLA. UCLA UniCamp is a resident camp for Los Angeles area kids who live at or below the federal poverty level.
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Build friendships & enjoy excellent recreation & art program in reform Jewish community. Entering 2nd-8th grade.
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Valley Trails offers a traditional camp experience for campers grades K-9. Safe campus setting with low camper to counselor ratios providing great memories.
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Campers are exposed to adventures, discovery and excitement, tempered with responsibility and self-discipline.
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A family tradition since 1926. 4th Generation Directors-Private Lake-Individual Programming from 35+ Activities. Mature & Caring Counselors. Memories for life.
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Wellspring is the only weight loss camp exclusively for young women, and the most fun, most famous, most effective and most affordable summer weight loss camp.
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Mountain setting w/ all the comforts of home. Sports, hiking, team building, art programs, first time & general camping
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Excellence in Jewish camping. Sports and arts are a large part of our program. Join us for the magic in Malibu.
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Mountain setting with open-air living, CIT, high adventure programs, riding & general camping.
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Caring, rustic setting serving economically disadvantaged youth.
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Mountain setting, traditional program, astronomy. Campers thrive in noncompetitive caring atmosphere.
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Traditional YMCA program that focuses on Christian heritage of the YMCA in a rustic mountain setting.
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Camp Jack Hazard helps kids build friendships to last a lifetime while learning the four core values of the YMCA: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
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Located in the beautiful redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Busing available from the East Bay. Call for more info about camp and rentals.
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Traditional YMCA mtn resident camp. Spectacular site in San Diego's high mountains. Character building experiences.
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Beautiful oceanfront camp. Surfing, body boarding, sea kayaking, San Diego, CA.Travel groups served. Beach camping.
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Since 1914 our summer campers have enjoyed an environment that encourages heartfelt laughter, interactive learning, & personal growth through fun YMCA programs.
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YMCA camp located on the edge of wilderness area. Rich history of camping dedicated to serving the youth & families of the greater Los Angeles area.
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YMCA camp located in beautiful mountain area. Year-round modern facility dedicated to serving the youth and families of Los Angeles. They also offer Friday-Saturday sessions at $110 per person.
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Beautiful redwoods in Santa Cruz Mtns. Traditional YMCA programs include activites like backpacking, challenge courses, rock climbing, arts and crafts, & more.
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