best nature programs in Oakland, CA

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

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.

At Montclair Community Play Center (MCPC), we strive to provide a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for our children to grow and learn. We are a play-based parent's cooperative preschool in Oakland, California, and have been since 1933. Our campus is situated among redwood trees, and we have multiple outdoor and indoor spaces, including two large outdoor play spaces, a nature area with chickens, an all-weather outdoor art space, a large playroom, a stand-alone learning annex and a snack room. We are a diverse community of 25 families who work together to create an environment that allows our children to learn how to resolve conflict, build self-esteem and value diversity.

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.