In the sun-kissed state of California, where palm trees sway in the breeze and the Pacific Ocean sparkles under the sunlight, a group of adventure-loving kids craves the thrill of outdoor escapades. Known as the 'Nature Navigators,' they explore the jagged mountain peaks, the tranquil forest trails, and the mysterious depths of the sea, all under the guidance of their magical mentor, Captain Kookaburra. Ah, Captain Kookaburra! He's not your regular guide. A bird with a surfer dude's spirit and the wisdom of a forest elder, he sports rainbow-colored feathers and a tail that transforms into a boogie board! With his hilarious jokes that make the squirrels chortle, and his tall tales that even the wise old owl finds amusing, he is the coolest bird in all of California. These 'Nature Navigators' are no ordinary kids either. With their sun-kissed faces, sand-filled shoes, and hearts full of courage, they dive into every adventure with rambunctious enthusiasm. They are the ones who would high-five a grizzly bear in Yosemite, take a selfie with a sea lion on the beaches of Santa Monica or race against a roadrunner in the Mojave Desert. Every day with the Nature Navigators and Captain Kookaburra is a whirlwind of laughter, learning, and leg-pulling. They may get mud on their clothes, but they also get stars in their eyes, learning to respect and protect the vibrant natural world around them. Because in California, it's not just about the golden sun or the crimson sunsets - it's about the golden-hearted kids whose laughter rings out over the rustling leaves, embodying the true spirit of this beautiful state.
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The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
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.
Our campers return as adults, and bring their children to experience the same joyous and transformative experiences they had as a young person. Camp Tawonga has been a leader in Jewish camping for 95 years. Nestled in the stunning Yosemite National Park and in the San Francisco Bay Area, our campsite is a place of discovery and connection for children, families, and young adults alike. Our programs are designed to foster a deep connection to nature, community, and Judaism, while encouraging self-esteem and friendships that last a lifetime. Many of our campers return as adults, to share the same joy and transformation they had experienced as a child.