best target-sports programs in Oakland, CA

For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

At our overnight camp, middle-school-aged youth have an opportunity to explore the outdoors and get back to nature. Campers can discover hiking trails, milk goats, pick berries from a local farm, sleep under the stars, and read their favorite book in a tree. Our campers have the opportunity to learn about themselves, discovering strengths they never knew they had. By the end of the three-week camp, many campers feel as though they’ve been transported to another dimension. The camp is a place where they can be themselves, an opportunity to escape the day-to-day and feel connected with Mother Nature and their community in a new way. At our overnight camp, middle-school-aged youth find a unique opportunity to learn about themselves and explore the outdoors. Our campers have the chance to go on hikes, milk goats, pick berries from a farm, sleep under the stars, and read a book in a tree. Our campers can learn about themselves, discovering strengths they never knew they had and connecting with nature and their community in a special way. By the end of the camp, many of our campers report feeling like they’ve been taken to another world, gaining a new appreciation for themselves and the natural environment.

This Oakland-based organization was founded and led mainly by women and People of Color. Their mission is to challenge oppressive dynamics and environments through urban farming and access to the natural environment. ANV is dedicated to elevating the lives of youth and their families in Oakland and beyond. The organization strives to create safe and creative outdoor spaces for youth and families to learn about nutrition, food production, healthy living, and the natural environment. Through these initiatives, ANV works to strengthen the ties between the young people and their families, as well as their connection with the community.

At Park’n It Day Camp, we’re passionate about promoting the health and well-being of kids through outdoor activities. We’ve joined the Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative, which encourages kids to get active in parks and green spaces. Our goal is to help them grow into eco-literate adults who understand and care about the environment. Research shows that when kids engage in active outdoor recreation, it has a positive impact on their physical and mental health. At Park’n It Day Camp, we’re committed to giving kids the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and reap the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle. We’re proud to be part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative and look forward to helping more kids discover the joys of being active in parks and green spaces.

At Girls Leadership, we understand the importance of empowering young girls with the skills they need to confidently use their voice in all aspects of life. Our programs are centered around social and emotional learning, and are designed to help girls of all ages develop the self-esteem and leadership skills they need to succeed. With workshops for families, professional development for teachers, guidance counselors, and non-profit staff, Girls Leadership is helping girls across the United States and around the world to find their voices. We believe that girls everywhere should be encouraged to speak up and take charge. That’s why we work with districts, public schools, charters, independent schools, and community-based organizations, offering our unique programs and workshops to help create a brighter future for the next generation. Through our innovative approach to social and emotional learning, girls can gain the confidence and self-assurance they need to take control of their own destiny.

At Camp Common Ground, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to experience the magic of summer camp. That is why we provide the opportunity for rising sixth through ninth graders from middle schools throughout the Bay Area to come together and create meaningful connections. By bringing together youth from different backgrounds and different economic means, we provide a unique and diverse experience for everyone. Not only does this allow us to provide camp experiences to those who would not otherwise be able to afford it, but it also helps us maintain a financially sustainable program. For those who are admitted to Camp Common Ground, we provide a two-year leadership journey. This journey begins with a two-week overnight camp, followed by a Leadership Academy during the school year. Through this program, campers have the opportunity to work on projects to make positive changes in their schools and communities. In the second summer, they come back to camp to mentor a new group of campers. We are committed to making sure that every young person has the chance to experience the joys and benefits of a summer camp experience. That’s why Camp Common Ground is dedicated to providing an affordable and diverse program to our Bay Area campers. With our two-year leadership journey, campers can develop valuable skills, build meaningful relationships, and work to make positive changes in their communities.