best nature programs in San Marcos, CA

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

For over 60 years, Camp Oakes has been providing a unique outdoor adventure experience for generations of children, groups, and families. With an array of activities, including fishing, rifles, archery, canoeing, and more, Camp Oakes is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all ages. Our camp staff is attentive and supportive, making sure every camper is given the best possible experience. To ensure the safety of all campers, Camp Oakes is accredited by the American Camp Association, meaning we have passed the highest standards for health and safety set by experts in camp management, risk management, child development, aquatics, and health care.

Located just minutes from the city, Camp Trask is a hidden gem tucked away in the Monrovia Canyon. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and journey to its serene wilderness setting. Here, the only sound you will hear is the peaceful flow of a year-round stream cascading throughout Camp. Camp Trask offers a unique opportunity to get away from the city without having to travel far. Its natural setting in the Monrovia Canyon provides a quiet atmosphere, where the only sound is the soothing sound of a stream. Let this peaceful environment provide you with the perfect place to relax and unwind.

At Camp Wildcraft we believe that having campers of different ages creates a unique and special atmosphere. Our older campers are reminded of their childhood and can enjoy the imaginative play of their younger selves. This also gives them the opportunity to be role models for our younger campers. With our guidance, they can develop empathy, patience, and leadership skills through activities like sports, hiking, and art. Younger campers benefit from watching the older campers and can learn how to navigate challenges, explore in different ways, or share their ideas. During “choice activities” campers group by their shared interests, rather than age. We also encourage making friends with age-mates, and this is made easier in a camp community atmosphere. At Camp Wildcraft, we have experienced the positive effects of having campers of different ages. Our older campers are able to enjoy childhood memories and our younger campers can learn from them. Through activities like sports, art, and hiking, our campers can develop leadership and social skills. We also encourage making friends with age-mates and support campers as they explore different ways of playing.

Hidden Villa is a 1600-acre educational nonprofit located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz mountains. We offer a variety of Experiential Education and Responsible Agriculture programs, in addition to offering visitors the chance to explore our organic farm and gardens, meet our farm animals, and hike our beautiful trails. Our programs welcome school groups, summer campers, family gatherings, corporate volunteers, and anyone looking for an escape and a respite. Our commitment to inclusion, diversity, understanding, and respect continues the legacy of our founders, Frank and Josephine Duveneck, who envisioned Hidden Villa as a place for social reform. Our passionate team of educators use our programs to create allies and advocates of a just and sustainable future. Come explore the possibilities at Hidden Villa!

At YMCA camps, kids have the opportunity to explore the outdoors and build lasting friendships. With a century of experience, YMCA camps are committed to providing an environment that is safe and nurturing for children to develop self-esteem, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility. Every YMCA camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, meaning they adhere to the highest standards in nearly 300 areas, such as health, safety, personnel, transportation, and facilities. YMCA camps provide a unique chance for kids to have outdoor adventures and make lasting connections with peers. With over 100 years of camping expertise, YMCA camps are dedicated to creating an environment that is safe and nurturing, which helps children to grow and develop self-esteem, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility, both for themselves and the world around them. All YMCA camps are accredited by the American Camp Association, guaranteeing that they meet the highest standards in nearly 300 areas, including health, safety, personnel, transportation, and facilities. YMCA camps offer a unique and memorable experience for kids, where they can explore the outdoors and make lifelong friendships. By providing a safe and nurturing atmosphere for over 100 years, YMCA camps not only give children the opportunity to have fun and make memories, but also to build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and learn to take responsibility for themselves and others. YMCA camps are held to the highest standards, having been accredited by the American Camp Association in nearly 300 areas, including health, safety, personnel, transportation, and facilities.

Parents, bring your family to the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains for a unique retreat experience. We offer a variety of camp programs for children, youth, and adults throughout the year. From our Women's Retreat and Family Camp in the spring to our Men's Conference and Young Adult Camp in the fall, we have something for everyone. Our Conference Center is available for custom retreats that include meals, lodging, and a range of recreational activities. We also host Outdoor Science School for 5th and 6th graders from schools in the area. Our registration team is happy to help you plan the perfect retreat for your family! At our camp in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, we offer a unique retreat experience for families. Our programs for children, youth, and adults vary seasonally; with a Women's Retreat and Family Camp in the spring and a Men's Conference and Young Adult Camp in the fall. We also host custom retreats year-round, which include meals, lodging, and recreational activities. If you are a parent of 5th or 6th graders, we also offer an Outdoor Science School. Our registration team is on hand to help you build the perfect retreat for your family!

At UAC, we believe that summer camp should be a meaningful and unique experience. Children are free to explore and discover in a safe and stimulating environment. Our programs take children on educational field trips to the best museums, science centers and parks in the Bay Area. Qualified instructors with subject knowledge and experience working with children lead our programs, providing an in-depth source of information for students. We strive to create a summer camp experience that will be both fun and educational, giving your child an opportunity to follow their own interests and discover new ones.

. For over 60 years, Camp Pendola has been the summer home to the Diocese of Sacramento. In 1959, the land was lovingly donated in memory of Frank Pendola, Jr. as a place of respite and fun. Since then, the camp has been used to host school retreats, alumni events, and environmental education programs for Catholic schools in the Diocese. Camp Pendola has been a special place for the Diocese of Sacramento for decades. It provides a safe and enriching environment for children and adults to learn, explore, and reconnect with nature. Here, campers can take part in activities like hiking, fishing, and boating, as well as get a deeper understanding of the environment and the importance of protecting it. Camp Pendola is a treasured place of learning and fun for the Diocese of Sacramento. Since 1960, it has been a destination for retreats, alumni events, and environmental education programs. With the beautiful surroundings and abundance of activities, Camp Pendola is the perfect place for campers to explore, connect with nature, and grow.

At California Educational Tours, we know that knowledge can be gained in traditional classrooms, but those who venture outside can experience the interconnectedness of the natural world in a way that is simply unforgettable. We have been providing amazing educational experiences for students of all ages for over two decades, and we are proud to be a leader in outdoor learning. Our team of experienced educators is passionate about creating safe and memorable experiences for every student. We strive to make sure that each group of students leaves with a rich appreciation of the world around them.

At Camp Curro in San Luis Obispo, California, groups, churches, and families can find unparalleled opportunities for retreats and events. Our mission is to help people deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and equip them to share their faith with others. We strive to empower individuals on their spiritual journey and encourage them through a life changing camping experience. Camp Curro is a full service camp and rental facility ready to serve your group, church, or family. Our vision is to join God in what he is already doing, so that individuals can experience the power and strength of Jesus in their lives. We provide resources and support to help guests learn and grow in their faith. We are committed to equipping people to share their Christian faith and encourage them through a life changing camping experience. We invite you to experience Camp Curro for yourself and join us in celebrating the joy of being part of God’s plan. Our goal is to create an atmosphere of faith and fellowship that will inspire you and your group for years to come. Let us help you take your spiritual journey to the next level.

The Pythian Youth Foundation of California, Inc. is a well-established 501(c)(3) Public Nonprofit Corporation. Established in 1946, the organization developed and operates the 19-acre Pythian Youth Camp nestled in the heart of the Sequoia National Forest. The camp was founded under the signature of President Harry S. Truman, making it the first and only land-grant camp in the United States. The mission of the Pythian Youth Camp is to enhance the growth and development of disadvantaged children between 9 and 11 both at camp and in the communities where they live. The camp is managed by Executive Director Donna, who can be reached at 909 553-4069. The Pythian Youth Camp is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for America’s youth. Its programs are designed to help children explore and develop their interests, hone their skills, and build strong relationships with their peers and mentors. It is a place where children can have fun, learn, and gain confidence in themselves.

At Big Bear Lake Christian Conference Center, families can find a lakeside retreat that offers something for everyone. Nestled on the south shore of Big Bear Lake, the center provides an incredible variety of programs and activities, top-notch facilities, and delicious food. The experienced and dedicated staff ensure that all campers are safe, while also having fun. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable family vacation or a summer camp experience, Big Bear Lake Christian Conference Center is the perfect spot. With activities ranging from swimming and fishing to horseback riding and rock climbing, the center has something to please everyone. Plus, the qualified staff will help ensure that your time here is stress free and safe. For an unforgettable experience, come to Big Bear Lake Christian Conference Center and find out why so many guests return year after year. With its incredible variety of activities, top-notch facilities, delicious food, and qualified staff, you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful time.

The Norbertine Fathers are steeped in a 900-year tradition of communal living and prayer. At their abbey in Orange County, over 50 priests and nearly 40 seminarians study for the priesthood, deepening their spiritual connection with the order’s unique heritage. Parents can rest assured that the Norbertine Fathers are dedicated to educating the next generation of priests. Their abbey in Orange County is home to a vibrant community of over 50 priests and nearly 40 seminarians. The Norbertine Fathers have upheld a 900-year tradition of communal living and prayer, providing a meaningful and enriching experience for all its members.

Camp del Corazon is a beacon of hope for children living with heart disease, providing a medically supervised, residential summer camp experience free of charge for children ages 7-17. Since 1995, we have served approximately 300 children each year, and grown from a volunteer staff of two and a minimal budget to a thriving community of support and growth. Our camp on Catalina Island, 22 miles off the California coast, is dedicated to providing resources and services for these children and their families, who already incur incredible financial burdens from medical bills and often have to seek private or home schooling due to the numerous doctors' appointments and hospital stays. By supporting Camp del Corazon, we give these children the chance to experience the joy of summer camp and connect with other kids who understand what it's like to live with heart disease.

When Camp Kesem was founded at Stanford University in 2000 as a part of Hillel at Stanford, it had a mission to provide a positive and free camp experience to children whose parents were dealing with cancer. Over the years, Camp Kesem has grown to more than 130 chapters across the country, and all of them are dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and supportive environment for kids. At Camp Kesem, kids are able to enjoy a variety of activities, from adventure experiences and creative projects to building trust in themselves and making new friends. Campers often report that Camp Kesem is the best week of the year, and it's easy to see why – it's a chance for them to have a break from the challenges of life and just be a kid again. Camp Kesem is a unique organization that is focused on providing an experience that can help children facing difficult situations. The campers find a safe, fun, and supportive environment where they can have a break from the real world and just enjoy the moment. Camp Kesem is a special place for these children, and we believe that it is an important part of their journey.

Since 1949, Unalayee has been providing memorable outdoor adventures for kids of all ages. Located in Northern California’s Trinity Alps, Unalayee is a non-profit summer camp that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, backpacking, and making crafts. Through this, campers learn how to safely enjoy a remarkably beautiful wilderness setting. At Unalayee, we are committed to providing a meaningful summer camp experience to campers from all backgrounds. We offer financial assistance to ensure no child is left out, and our unique program teaches leadership skills, confidence, compassion, community, and conservation. Join us on an unforgettable outdoor adventure today!

Rawhide Ranch is the perfect place for kids to have a wild and educational adventure. Campers can take part in activities such as horse-riding, animal care and stock-handling, allowing them to develop skills and learn about the responsibility of looking after animals. Not to mention, the camp’s Wild West theme will have kids feeling like they’re in an episode of Bonanza! But the lessons learned at Rawhide go beyond skills – campers build character and learn the importance of integrity, respect, hard work and the value of community. By participating in a wide range of activities, campers learn firsthand the rewards of team-work and cooperation. At Rawhide Ranch, campers can make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether they’re in the saddle, up to their elbows in farm work, or enjoying campfire songs and stories, Rawhide is the perfect place for kids to have a wild, educational and character-building adventure!

With a variety of riding styles, our staff will ensure that your camper is comfortable and confident in the saddle. In addition to horseback riding, Raintree Ranch offers plenty of other activities. From arts and crafts to evening campfires and star-gazing, there’s something for everyone. With such a wide range of activities, your camper will make life-long friendships and create lasting memories. Raintree Ranch is the perfect summer destination for young equestrians looking for a unique and memorable experience. Our cozy facilities and western-themed activities offer campers the opportunity to get to know their horses and each other in a calming environment, while still having access to all of the amenities of nearby YMCA Camp Marston. From horseback riding to arts and crafts, campers can make lifelong friendships and create lasting memories in our beautiful setting.

Are you looking for a special place for your church or Christian organization to gather? Look no further than Mt. Gilead! This Christian camp and conference center in northern California is the perfect spot for your next event. With facilities for rent, you can be sure your event will be held in a comfortable and safe environment. For those looking to participate in summer camps, Mt. Gilead is the perfect spot. We offer summer camps for children from 1st-12th grade, featuring innovative programs designed to bring together multiple generations. In addition, we offer hands on leadership development training for high schoolers. Throughout the year, Mt. Gilead also offers quality Christian programs for adults. So whether you’re looking for a rental or a program, Mt. Gilead is the place to be! Come experience everything we have to offer and see why we’re the best choice for your Christian organization.

Parents, don't miss the opportunity for your child to experience the magic of summer camp. At Skylake, your child will have a classic sleepaway camp experience in the gorgeous outdoor setting of California's Sierra National Forest. They can enjoy traditional camp activities and make meaningful connections with old and new friends. Without the distraction of cell phones, video games and the internet, your child will be able to focus on building their skills, developing confidence and making memories that will last a lifetime! Skylake has been providing quality camp experiences for 75 years. Campers have the opportunity to stay for two, four, six or eight week sessions. If you're looking for a full family experience, you can join Family Camp on select weekends. Skylake is just 15 miles away from Yosemite National Park, so your child can explore the great outdoors while making friends and learning new skills. At Skylake, your child will be able to take a break from technology and indulge in the joys of summer camp. They can develop important skills, build relationships and cultivate their self-confidence all while having fun and participating in outdoor activities. So give your child the gift of summer camp and let them experience the magic of Skylake!

For 85 years, Forest Home has been a place of spiritual transformation. In our chapel, thousands of pages of personal history are filled with campers’ decisions, prayers, and cries to God. Our summer camps offer an opportunity for all to explore the power of the Word of God and discover God’s unique calling for their lives. We also provide an opportunity to develop Christ-centered relationships and connect with God through the beauty of creation. Forest Home is a place of life-changing moments, where guests are empowered to make decisions that will have a lasting impact on their lives.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, Forest Home Ojai Valley offers it all. Our tranquil environment is the perfect place to get away from it all and reconnect with family, friends, and faith. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and starry skies as you explore the secluded grounds of our beautiful Ventura County camp. Relax in the cozy setting of warm days and cool nights with afternoon sea breezes, all nestled against rolling hills filled with rustic oak trees.

Tom Sawyer Camps has been a beloved tradition in the Pasadena area since 1926. Every summer, campers ages 3-14 from all over the area get to experience carefree outdoor activities in a rustic setting in the Hahamongna Watershed Park. The camp day is split between scheduled activities such as swimming, horseback riding, archery, and rock wall climbing, and free time where campers can explore and create in the wilderness. During free time, campers can build forts, create dams in the mud river, and complete imaginative challenges. All of these experiences provide campers with an opportunity to get back to nature, just like Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher did in the classic literature.

Camp provides a safe and secure environment for children to learn, grow, and have fun. Campers and staff are empowered to become leaders, to develop spiritual and personal growth, and to build lasting friendships. We provide an opportunity for campers to learn to navigate life’s challenges and serve the broader community. We believe that each person can have a positive influence on our world and to that end, we use the example of a young seminarian named Michael. His example of reaching out to others, helping them, and using the gifts and talents God gave him serves as an inspiration for campers and staff alike. At camp, campers are surrounded by nature and taught to respect the environment. Through our Nature Program, campers learn the Leave-No-Trace wilderness ethic and the names of local trees and plants. We ask campers and staff to respect all life and avoid the unnecessary picking of leaves or killing of bugs. Campers are encouraged to take this "Michael-like" spirit home with them, helping to make our world more loving and life-giving.

Pilgrim Pines Camp and Conference Center welcomes people of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and religious affiliations. We strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion, and to promote a healthy and safe environment for personal and spiritual growth. Our goal is to foster understanding and respect for each other, nurture community, and encourage care and concern for God’s creation and a sustainable world.

But St. Dorothy’s is much more than just a summer camp. Retreat goers of all ages and backgrounds come to St. Dorothy’s to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The campus offers accommodations for groups of any size, and the grounds provide ample space for outdoor activities, including a pond, meadows, and trails. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful space to unplug, or a place to celebrate with family and friends, St. Dorothy’s offers something for everyone. St. Dorothy’s is the perfect place for children to explore and learn in a safe and natural environment. With its breathtaking views, old-growth redwoods, and miles of trails, St. Dorothy’s is a unique destination for campers and retreat goers alike. Through its camps and retreats, St. Dorothy’s provides a place to connect with nature, make lasting friendships, and build valuable life skills. Whether you’re seeking a traditional summer camp experience, or a peaceful escape from the everyday, St. Dorothy’s is the perfect place to explore, learn, and make memories.

Camp HOPE America is a leading program that helps children and teens heal from the effects of experiencing domestic violence. Through collaborative, trauma-informed care, Camp HOPE America offers a unique opportunity for youth to gain hope and healing while believing in themselves and their dreams. Camp HOPE America is a pioneering program that understands the effects of domestic violence and offers year-round camping and mentoring opportunities to help children and teens heal. With a focus on creating hope and healing, these pathways provide a safe environment for youth to regain a sense of trust and belief in themselves and their dreams. Camp HOPE America is dedicated to providing a strong support system for children and teens who have been impacted by domestic violence. Through trauma-informed care, the program encourages youth to find hope and healing as they develop the confidence to believe in themselves, others, and their dreams.

In 1978, Ruth Lansford formed Friends of Ballona Wetlands to protect what remained of the 2,000 acres of wetlands that had been drastically affected by housing and development during the 20th century. With their nonprofit status in place, Friends of Ballona Wetlands took up a battle against a series of developers, using litigation and activism to push for preservation of the area. Finally, in 2003, the State of California, the developer of Playa Vista, and the Friends reached an agreement to save 600 acres of the wetlands. Through their relentless efforts, the Friends of Ballona Wetlands have become a leading voice in the struggle to protect the wetlands, working with other NGOs, creating community restoration and educational programs, and advocating for the environment.

Bearskin Meadow Camp offers an exciting and unique opportunity for campers to experience the outdoors and learn the skills they need to successfully manage their diabetes. At Bearskin Meadow Camp, campers can experience the beauty of the Sequoia National Forest and learn wilderness skills such as hiking, fishing, and archery. The camp also features a variety of activities designed to help campers manage their diabetes, such as nutrition education, glucose monitoring, and physical activity. With its stunning location and wide range of activities, Bearskin Meadow Camp provides a safe and enriching environment for children, teens and families affected by diabetes.

Cali Camp is the perfect place for kids ages 4 to 15 to explore and discover something new! Our campers can take part in outdoor sports and games, creative arts, and even an equestrian "Wrangler" camp. We also offer Aerial Arts camp, as well as action and adventure activities that allow campers to connect to nature. Kids who attend Cali Camp will experience something new and exciting every day! Our campers can choose from outdoor sports and games, creative arts, an equestrian "Wrangler" camp, Aerial Arts, and action and adventure activities—all of which provide an opportunity to connect to nature. Let your kids find their passions and explore something new at Cali Camp!

At Devil's Gulch Ranch, DGES Summer Day Camps provide an opportunity for children and their families to explore and engage in a variety of activities related to food production, from visiting the farm to shopping at a local farmer's market. Through these activities, children learn to appreciate nature and develop an understanding of the connection between food production and sustainability. Families also gain valuable insight into the importance of producing and consuming food in a sustainable manner.

Jerry and Paula Baker founded Camp Tuolumne Trails in 2002, inspired by their own experiences caring for a son with a brain tumor. Their goal is to provide a safe and meaningful experience for all of their campers, especially those with disabilities. Tuolumne Trails is staffed by highly qualified year-round professionals and skilled seasonal employees and provides a supportive environment for healing, respite, education and recreation. The Bakers are dedicated to helping those with disabilities and those who support them, and are committed to making sure their campers have the best possible experience.

At Camp James, we have been creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime for over 30 years. Our dedicated team of directors, supervisors and staff are committed to making sure your camper has the best summer ever. Our philosophy of being kind to each other, the environment, and our camp grounds is at the core of our summer camp experience. We strive to create an atmosphere of fun and learning, while also emphasizing the importance of social networking in the old fashioned way. We are proud to have provided an unforgettable summer experience to thousands of children and their families, and we look forward to making more memories this summer.

At Point Bonita YMCA, we know that wellness is more than just physical. We believe in the power of nature to nurture both the body and the soul. That's why we offer a variety of programs designed to help you and your family connect with the natural world. Whether you're looking for environmental education, a conference or retreat, a family camp, or simply a way to connect with yourself, we have the perfect program for you. Located on the breathtaking bluffs of the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita YMCA is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean while engaging with nature. Our facility offers a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone, regardless of background or ability. We invite you to join us and explore all the ways that nature can help you find wellness and connection.