Nevada City Summer Camps: Nature Programs & Outdoor Fun

Two-week residential leadership program for teens ages 15-17. Participants live with peers, assist with camper activities and meals, and receive feedback on counseling abilities. Curriculum covers child development, communication, outdoor skills, and mentorship. Opportunity to earn 40 community service hours. Requires Zoom interview after registration.

Two-week residential leadership program for returning CIT participants ages 15-17. At age 17 and after graduation, returning CITs may be invited to remain at camp and participate in a free 'Live-In' week during Day Camp. Curriculum covers advanced counseling skills and mentorship.

Lightly-programmed, flexible family weekend camp over July 4th. Activities include swimming, canoeing on Lake Vera, archery, crafts, and campfires. Families stay in kiosks with cots and mattresses provided, or can pitch their own tents. Meals served family-style in the dining hall. Includes 2 nights lodging and 4 meals.

Summer day camp at Lake Vera for ages 5-12. Activities include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, nature hikes, arts & crafts, archery, field games, and traditional camp singalongs. Campers bring their own sack lunch; afternoon snack and camp t-shirt included. Optional AM extended care (8:00 AM-9:30 AM with breakfast) available for additional fee.

Multi-generational family camp over Memorial Day weekend. 2026 theme: 'The Wonderful World of Wizards.' Activities include archery, crafts, outdoor cooking, canoeing, singing, campfires, swimming, and nature-based activities. Families sleep in kiosks on platform decks. Includes 3 nights lodging, 7 meals, and all activities.

Overnight summer camp for kids ages 8-17 on beautiful Lake Vera in California. Fosters self-discovery, community, and appreciation for nature. Includes canoeing, archery, crafts, all meals, snacks, and boarding. Free bus available from Vallejo and Sacramento.

Monday-Friday day camp for teens ages 13-16 with a Thursday overnight included. Features a unique mix of adventures shaped by the group — from lake time and outdoor exploration to creative projects, team challenges, and planning their culminating overnight together. All meals and snacks provided during program hours. Camp t-shirt included. Optional AM extended care and PM extended care (Sessions 1 & 2 only) available.

Family camp designed for families living with autism (ASD diagnosis required). Activities include canoeing, swimming, archery, crafts, nature, hiking, outdoor cooking, orienteering, singing, and games. Participants must be able to understand and follow simple directions, handle outdoor terrain, and participate in a new environment.

Traditional co-ed sleepaway camp near Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Campers participate in 30+ activities across water sports, land & adventure, creative & performing arts, and wellness. The program is built around three core areas: building community, healthy lifestyle, and positive self-image. Campers are grouped by grade into Trailblazers (youngest), Trackers (middle), and Alpiners (oldest).

Traditional co-ed sleepaway camp near Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Campers participate in 30+ activities across water sports, land & adventure, creative & performing arts, and wellness. Two-week sessions include special events like Water Carnival, Beach Day, and sleep-in days. The program is built around three core areas: building community, healthy lifestyle, and positive self-image. Campers are grouped by grade into Trailblazers (youngest), Trackers (middle), and Alpiners (oldest).

Competitive leadership program for older campers entering 10th–12th grade. CITs spend three of four daily activity periods in regular camp activities and one period in dedicated leadership training. Special opportunities include white water rafting, overnight trips, hosting campfire programs, and assisting younger campers. Applications open November 3 with a December 1 deadline. Approximately 50% acceptance rate. CITs may participate in only one CIT session per summer.