Use our online portal to register today for family, youth, teen backpacking, 50 and Better, overnight camp options. Apply for scholarships up to 100%.
Retreat to the Sierra Nevada mountains with the City of Berkeley this summer. We offer overnight camps tailored for youth, families, and those over 50-years-old.
You can swim in a clear lake or river, hike in the forest, enjoy meals cooked for you, and let your children explore the wonders of the High Sierra with our knowledgeable camp counselors.
The range of camp options includes teen backpacking trips and a Counselor-in-Training program to in-residence programs for artists or scientists.
Whether it’s Echo Lake Camp (near South Lake Tahoe) or Tuolumne Camp (near Yosemite) you choose, you'll become part of cherished Berkeley traditions alongside families and friends – and have the opportunity to create new ones.
Registration is open now, and Berkeley residents can apply for scholarships covering 50% to 100% of the costs. Visit our online registration portal for detailed information about Echo Lake Camp and Berkeley Tuolumne Camp sessions, prices, and to secure your spot.
Family Camp
At either Echo Lake or Tuolumne camp, families can enjoy the wilderness, great food, and all-day programming for all ages. Choose from weeklong, weekday, and weekend camp visits.
Families can enjoy classic camp experiences like campfires and s’mores, take part in theme days, play games, practice archery, and learn crafts. At Echo, there’s a swimming pool, a lake, and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. At Tuolumne, you can fish, hike up to a waterfall, enjoy a steam in the sauna, jump in a swimming hole, or take a scenic 30-minute drive to Yosemite National Park.
Camp fees are calculated per tent cabin accommodating up to 3 campers, with the option to include additional campers for an extra fee.
- Echo Lake (weekday, weekend, or weeklong session): July 1-7
- Tuolumne Family Camp (weekday, weekend, or weeklong sessions): June 17-23, 24-30, July 1-7, 8-14, 15-21, 22-28, July 29-August 4, August 5-11
Youth Camp
Our Youth Camp at Echo Lake offers a week-long opportunity for kids ages 7 to 14 to experience the natural world, make new friends, have fun, and build confidence.
These 5- or 6-day sessions include activities such as hiking, swimming, archery, arts and crafts, campfires, talent shows, dances, group games, and more.
Bus transportation is provided to and from Berkeley for all participants. Guardians can choose to drop off and pick up their campers from Berkeley Echo Lake Camp if preferred.
- Five-day session: July 29-August 2
- Six-day sessions: June 17-22, 24-29, July 8-13, 15-20, 22-27, August 5-10, 12-17
Echo Lake Adventure Backpacking Program
Teens aged 13-16 can join our highly trained staff on a 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip to explore the beautiful wilderness of Lake Tahoe. No camping experience is necessary, but campers should be physically fit and prepared to carry a 40-50 lb. pack while hiking 3-6 miles daily at elevations of 7,500-9,200 feet.
Backpackers will spend the first one to two days acclimating to the altitude and learning backcountry basics. We will provide all necessary food and gear. The camp health process ensures campers' safety, including measures such as staff certified in medical response, medicine distribution, and a satellite phone for emergencies.
Campers will have the chance to make new friends, sleep under the stars, swim in alpine lakes, summit mountain peaks, learn new skills, and experience a variety of activities.
- Four sessions: July 8-13, 15-20, 22-27, August 5-10
Counselor-in-Training Program
Teens entering grades 9-11 are invited to join the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program during either family camp or youth camp sessions. During the program, youth will learn leadership and other skills to prepare them for a future role as a camp counselor.
Participants will receive comprehensive training covering camp policies, outdoor safety, leadership, problem-solving, recreation activity coordination, performance arts, and leading age-appropriate activities.
Bus transportation is only provided to and from Berkeley for CITs participating in youth camp (not family camp).
- Echo Lake Youth Camp (2-week and 1-week sessions): June 12-August 19
- Tuolumne Family Camp (2-week sessions): June 17-August 12
50 and Better Camp
Indulge in a serene nature retreat at either Echo Lake or Tuolumne camp. Adults can enjoy hiking, fishing, and other camper-led activities.
Whether you seek the tranquility of the mountains, new friendships, skill-building, or immersive nature experiences, our camps offer it all and more. Lead a hike, host a book discussion, or savor a peaceful morning with a cup of coffee.
Fees include lodging, meals, and programs for up to two individuals per tent. Additional campers can be added for an extra fee. Choose between 4- or 7-day camp visits.
- Echo Lake: August 19-25
- Tuolumne: August 23-26
Artist and Scientist-in-Residence Programs
Our Artist and Scientist-In-Residence programs provide opportunities for selected individuals to coordinate arts & crafts and science-based activities for campers. Spaces are limited, and participants are selected based on each camp’s program needs.
Selected artists and scientists are asked to dedicate approximately 6-9 hours to the program. In return, you receive a complimentary stay, with accommodation for up to 1 adult or two children at no cost. To be considered, please submit an application for Echo Lake: Artist-in-Residence or Scientist-in-Residence, or Berkeley Tuolumne Camp Artist and Scientist-In-Residence application.
- Echo Lake: June 17–August 17
- Tuolumne: June 17–August 18
Register for camps using Online Registration Portal
Sign up for these and any of our camp offerings via our recreation portal. Use the left side filters to guide you to the camp experience you'd like.
- Under “Location,” choose "Echo Lake" or "Berkeley Tuolumne Camp" to select your preferred site.
- Narrow options by choosing a selection under "Age Group" or "Days of the Week."
- Pick your desired option.
- Click "Add to Cart" and complete the checkout process.
Scholarships Available
We offer scholarships to low-income Berkeley residents, waiving 50% or 100% of fees for many programs. Apply for scholarships online. Space is limited. Approved applicants' enrollment is based on a first-come, first-served basis. For questions, contact recreation@berkeleyca.gov or (510) 981-5150.
Our overnight camps are organized by the City's Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Department, which offers a variety of camps, classes, and activities catering to diverse age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Use our Recreation Portal to explore our overnight camps and start planning your next Sierra adventure to make connections and build traditions.
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