California

If you’re looking for a camp that offers outdoor adventure, tons of variety, and a truly welcoming environment, Blue Camp is a fantastic choice for your child. Kids spend their days trying out new sports, exploring nature, and making friends in a setting that’s both safe and supportive. The staff are known for their enthusiasm and dedication, making every camper feel included and encouraged to try new things. With activities ranging from swimming and soccer to arts, science, and even archery, your child will never be bored! Parents love the convenient drop-off and pick-up times, and the extended care option is a real lifesaver for working families. Blue Camp’s connection to UC Berkeley means you can count on a high standard of organization and safety. If you want your child to experience a summer packed with fun, learning, and new friendships, this camp is a top pick around Berkeley.

If you’re looking for a camp that truly feels like a second home, Adventure Day Camp is a fantastic choice for your family. What sets this camp apart is its warm, welcoming environment and the way it balances group bonding with individual choice. Kids start off in small, close-knit groups, which really helps them feel comfortable and supported as they try out a huge variety of activities-everything from swimming and horseback riding to rock climbing, arts and crafts, and performing arts. As the session goes on, campers get to pick their favorites and dive deeper into what excites them most. The counselors are not only experienced, but genuinely caring and attentive, making sure every child feels seen and valued. Parents consistently mention how thoughtfully the days are planned and how the staff goes above and beyond, even working closely with families to accommodate allergies and special needs. The camp’s philosophy is all about building confidence, teamwork, and lifelong friendships in a fun, safe setting. Your child will come home each day tired, happy, and full of stories, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re in great hands. It’s the kind of summer experience that creates memories-and skills-that last a lifetime.

If you want your child to have a hands-on, creative summer where they can explore STEAM, art, and maker activities in a nurturing environment, Camp Doodles in Orinda is a fantastic choice. The camp’s approach is all about project-based learning-kids don’t just follow instructions, they get to build, invent, and discover alongside passionate, caring counselors. The staff truly believes in letting kids drive their own learning and encourages exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving. What sets Camp Doodles apart is the variety and depth of its programs: from woodworking and Minecraft to engineering, art, and science, there’s something for every interest. The camp welcomes children as young as 3.5 up to 16, with age-appropriate groups and activities. Parents love the flexible extended care hours, generous sibling and early-bird discounts, and the camp’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. You’ll find a warm, safe, and inspiring place for your child to thrive, make friends, and gain confidence in their creativity.

If your daughter is looking for real outdoor adventure with a touch of California history, Camp Fleming is a wonderful choice. Nestled in the foothills of Somerset, this camp offers over 400 acres of wooded trails, open meadows, and unique Gold Rush and Native American sites. What really sets Camp Fleming apart is its focus on leadership, confidence, and hands-on learning-all in a safe, supportive environment designed just for Girl Scouts. The camp’s lodge, campfire area, and stage make it perfect for troop bonding, while the variety of activities-from archery and hiking to STEM and environmental education-means there’s something for every interest. Seasonal events like Wild Weekends and Journey in a Weekend help girls connect, grow, and create lasting memories. If you want your child to experience nature, teamwork, and personal growth, Camp Fleming is a place where she’ll be challenged, inspired, and supported every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a place where your child will feel truly understood, Bearskin Meadow Camp is a one-of-a-kind community for kids, teens, and families living with type 1 diabetes. What makes this camp so special is the way it blends all the fun of a classic summer camp-archery, swimming, hiking, campfires, and arts & crafts-with a uniquely supportive environment focused on diabetes care and education. Surrounded by the beauty of Sequoia National Forest, campers don’t just learn to manage their diabetes; they build lifelong friendships and confidence, knowing they’re not alone in their journey. The staff, many of whom live with diabetes themselves, create a space where every child’s experience is validated, and no one ever feels “different” for checking blood sugar or giving insulin. Parents can relax, knowing that their kids are in the hands of a dedicated medical team and counselors who make safety and empowerment their top priorities. At Bearskin Meadow, kids celebrate their “firsts,” from giving their own insulin shot to conquering a tough hike, all while surrounded by peers who cheer them on. The camp’s philosophy is simple: kids with diabetes can do anything-and here, they truly do. If you want your child to come home more independent, joyful, and connected, Bearskin Meadow Camp is a place where that transformation happens every summer.

If you’re looking for a camp that’s all about creative activities, friendship, and safe summer fun, the Assistance League of Southern California’s Summer Camp at Children’s Club is a wonderful choice. This camp is designed for kids ages 4.9 to 13 and offers a blend of arts and crafts, field trips, sports, and supervised swimming-all in a welcoming, supportive environment. What makes this camp unique is its commitment to providing a safe, nurturing space where children can explore new interests, make friends, and build confidence. The staff truly cares about each child’s experience, and the camp’s long history in the community means your family will be joining a trusted tradition. For parents, the pricing is straightforward and the location in Hollywood is convenient for many LA families. If you value a camp that’s both fun and enriching, and want your child to come home with new skills and happy memories, this is a great pick.

If you want your child to embrace their Armenian heritage while building deep, lasting friendships, AYF Camp Big Pines is a truly special place. This camp isn’t just about fun in the sun-though there’s plenty of that with swimming, canoeing, arts, and sports-it’s about fostering a strong sense of identity and community in a beautiful, supportive environment. Kids are surrounded by peers who share their background and counselors who become mentors, helping them explore their culture through music, dance, language, and history. What sets AYF Camp apart is the feeling of belonging: every camper is welcomed like family, and the camp’s traditions create memories (and friendships) that last well beyond the summer. Parents love the focus on personal growth, leadership, and cultural pride, while kids come home with stories, skills, and connections they’ll treasure for years. If you’re looking for a camp that will help your child grow, connect, and thrive-all while having an absolute blast-this is the one.

If you’re looking for a camp that truly nurtures your child’s growth while also being a ton of fun, Camp Bob Waldorf is a fantastic choice. This is a sleepaway camp that goes beyond just activities-it’s all about helping kids build confidence, independence, and a real sense of community. The camp is grounded in the values of Community, Inclusion, Identity, and Respect, so your child will feel welcomed and supported no matter their background. Kids get to try everything from sports and swimming to arts, drama, and even horseback riding-there’s something for every personality and interest. Counselors are caring and well-trained, creating a safe, encouraging environment where kids can make friends and memories that last a lifetime. Plus, the camp’s tiered pricing and financial aid make it accessible for families, and the nut-free, allergy-friendly meals mean you don’t have to worry about dietary needs. If you want your child to come home more confident, connected, and happy, this is a camp that truly delivers.

If you’re looking for a camp that truly puts your child in the driver’s seat, Steve & Kate’s is a breath of fresh air. Here, kids get to design their own day-choosing from creative activities like sewing, coding, baking, water play, and more, all at their own pace. There’s no rigid schedule or pressure, just a supportive environment where independence, confidence, and joy naturally blossom. For parents, the flexibility is unbeatable-drop off and pick up anytime between 8am and 6pm, delicious meals and snacks included, and you only pay for the days you use. If your plans change, unused days are automatically refunded-no stress, no hassle. It’s a camp experience that values both your child’s growth and your family’s convenience, making summer simple, memorable, and fun for everyone.

If you’re looking for a camp that’s packed with adventure and variety, AdventurePlex is a fantastic choice for families in Manhattan Beach and the South Bay. What really sets this camp apart is its huge indoor play structure, rock climbing walls, and ropes courses-kids are always moving, exploring, and trying new things. The staff here focus on building self-esteem and social skills, so your child isn’t just having fun-they’re growing, making friends, and learning teamwork every day. The flexible hours (with early drop-off and late pick-up) make it super convenient for busy parents, and there’s a real emphasis on healthy habits and active play in a safe, supervised environment. The camp has even been voted “Best Camp” in the area, which speaks volumes about the quality and the positive experiences families have had. If you want your child to come home each day tired, happy, and full of stories about new adventures, you really can’t go wrong with AdventurePlex.

If you’re searching for a camp that truly feels like a second home, Camp Fox on Catalina Island is a standout choice. Since 1926, this YMCA camp has been all about building lifelong friendships, boosting confidence, and letting kids discover who they are away from screens and daily routines. What makes Camp Fox unique is its spectacular island setting-kids spend their days kayaking, snorkeling, rock climbing, and making memories around nightly campfires. The camp’s team is made up of dedicated staff and volunteers, many of whom are former campers themselves, so they really understand how to make every child feel included and valued. Camp Fox’s philosophy centers on personal growth, teamwork, and leadership, all wrapped up in a week of fun and adventure. Your child will have the freedom to pick activities that excite them, build new skills, and gain independence in a supportive, caring environment. The camp’s strong sense of tradition means that many families return year after year, and it’s not uncommon for campers to become counselors, passing on the magic to the next generation. If you want your child to unplug, connect with nature, and come home with stories they’ll never forget, Camp Fox is a place where those moments happen every summer.

If you want your kids to experience unforgettable mountain adventures while growing in their faith, Angeles Crest Christian Camp is a fantastic choice. Nestled in the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains just above La Canada, this camp offers a safe, supportive environment where children can build lifelong friendships, challenge themselves with exciting activities like ziplining, paintball, and hiking, and deepen their spiritual journey through engaging worship and teaching. The staff are known for their genuine care and encouragement, making every camper feel welcome and included. With a wide range of activities, from swimming and sports to creative team-building and outdoor education, your child will come home with new skills, confidence, and memories to last a lifetime. The camp’s strong focus on Christian values and community means your family can trust that your child is in good hands, learning important life lessons and having a blast at the same time.

If you’re looking for a camp that truly blends fun, safety, and flexibility, Fitness by the Sea is a fantastic choice for your family. This camp has been recognized as the safest beach camp in Los Angeles for over 25 years, so you can relax knowing your child is in great hands. What sets FBS apart is their incredible range of activities-over 200 to choose from!-and the way they let kids take charge of their own day, picking what excites them most. Whether your child is a first-time camper or a seasoned beachgoer, the nurturing staff (with an average age in their mid-20s) makes sure every camper feels welcome, supported, and encouraged to try new things at their own pace. The flexible week-by-week scheduling is a lifesaver for busy parents, and you can add or change weeks as your summer unfolds-no stressful commitments. Plus, the camp’s focus on personal growth, friendship, and confidence-building means your child will come home not just tired and happy, but also more independent and self-assured. If you want your kids to experience a summer packed with laughter, learning, and safe adventure right on the Santa Monica beach, this is the camp to choose.

If you're looking for a camp that feels like a second home, Burbank Community YMCA Summer Day Camp is truly special. Your child will be welcomed into a warm, extended family of caring counselors and enthusiastic friends, all while enjoying a wide variety of activities that keep them engaged, active, and learning. The camp’s focus on healthy lifestyle choices, team-building, and leadership means your child will grow in confidence and independence, not just have fun. Weekly themes, exciting field trips, and hands-on learning in science, art, and history ensure every week is fresh and memorable. Plus, the Y’s commitment to safety and nurturing means you can relax knowing your child is in good hands. The flexible payment options and generous member discounts make it easier for families, too. If you want your child to build friendships, explore new interests, and develop lifelong skills in a supportive, spirited environment, this camp is a fantastic choice!

If you’re looking for a camp where your kids can truly unplug, explore, and grow, Cali Camp is a gem nestled in the heart of Topanga Canyon. What makes this place special is the huge variety of activities-from horseback riding to zip lines and creative arts-so every child finds something they love. The camp’s philosophy is all about child-led exploration and building confidence, with caring staff who encourage kids to try new things and make lifelong friends. Parents rave about the safe, welcoming environment and the way their children come home each day with big smiles and stories to share. Plus, the camp provides door-to-door transportation, making it super convenient for busy families. With decades of experience and ACA accreditation, you can feel confident your child is in good hands. Cali Camp is a place where kids can be themselves, discover new passions, and create memories that last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for a camp where your child can grow, connect, and thrive in a warm community, Camp Amaras is a wonderful choice. This camp is all about celebrating Armenian heritage while making every day fun and enriching. Your child will enjoy a mix of creative projects, sports, music, arts & crafts, and field trips, all guided by caring educators and counselors who truly understand kids. What really sets Camp Amaras apart is the focus on cultural enrichment and lifelong friendships. Kids get to learn about their roots, try new activities, and build confidence in a safe, supportive environment. The camp’s special events and guest visitors make every week unique, and parents are even invited to join in for family bonding moments. For busy families, the reliable schedule and experienced staff mean peace of mind, knowing your child is in good hands and having a blast. If you want a place where your child can learn, play, and make memories that last, Camp Amaras is a fantastic option.