Overnight Camps

Escape to the Sierra Nevada with the City of Berkeley: we have summer sleepaway camps for youth, families, adults, and seniors. You can swim in a lake, hike in the forest, enjoy meals cooked for you, or let your children explore the wonders of the high sierras with counselors. We have been running our camps for more than 100 years!

Whether you are a first-time camper or you have been camping with us for years, we look forward to having you join us at camp. Households and individuals of all backgrounds are welcome to share in Berkeley’s rich diversity at camp. 

You can find more information about dates and fees on our Online Registration Portal and on our Summer Camp Preview brochure.

Low-income families may qualify for a camp scholarship to cover 50% or 100% of camp fees, apply for a scholarship online today.

Berkeley Echo Lake Camp

Berkeley Echo Lake Camp has served both Berkeley residents and non-residents since 1923. Today, the camp offers youth camp, Counselor-In-Training (CIT), Family Camp, and 50 and Better camp programs. Straddling the Pacific Crest Trail and just minutes from Echo Lake and Desolation Wilderness, campers enjoy an amazing camping experience and an incredible view of the Tahoe basin. 

Register for Echo Lake Camps

Berkeley Tuolumne Camp

Berkeley Tuolumne Camp reopened in summer 2022 after being completely rebuilt following the Rim Fire of 2013. This brand-new facility is one of the most accessible camps in California, with paved pathways, ramps, and other features making it easier for people with disabilities to navigate.

Located just outside the gates of Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Camp has served thousands of Berkeley residents annually since 1922. 

 Register for Tuolumne Camps

Camp Programs

Echo Lake and Tuolumne Camp each offer a variety of programs for families, youth, and adults. Learn more about the available programs below. All meals are provided during camp programs.

Family Camp

Ages: Families of all ages

At either Echo Lake or Tuolumne Camp, families can enjoy the wilderness, great food, and all-day programming for kids. Options include week-long, weekday, and weekend camp visits. 

Enjoy campfires and s'mores, take part in theme days, play games, practice archery, swim, and learn crafts.  

Register for a tent cabin of up to 3 campers and add additional campers for a fee.

Specialty Weeks and Weekends at Berkeley Tuolumne Camp 

Join us for new adventures at Berkeley Tuolumne Family Camp with our specialty weeks and weekends. Each week will immerse your family in new, unforgettable experiences. Specialty Week themes will be announced closer to the start of camps registration.

Youth Camp

Ages: Youth 7-14

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 grow confidence. 

These 6-day sessions include activities such as hiking, swimming, archery, arts & crafts, campfires, talent shows, group games, and more.  

All meals are provided, as well as transportation to and from the City of Berkeley.

Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

Ages: Entering grades 9-12th

Teens are invited to participate in the counselor-in-training (CIT) program during family or youth camps. During the program, teens will be given a valuable, hands-on leadership experience and the opportunity to gain skills that they can use for future jobs, internships, etc.

CITs receive training on camp policies, outdoor recreation safety, teamwork and collaboration, effective communication, and leading recreation activities. Please note, teens interested in being a CIT at Echo Lake must first submit an online application. 

Adventure Backpacking Program 

Ages: Youth Program 13-17, Adult Program 18+

The Adventure Backpacking Program (ABP) offers an amazing opportunity for campers to explore the beautiful wilderness of the Sierras. Our trips are designed for campers to make new friends, sleep under the stars, summit mountain peaks, and walk away with an incredible sense of accomplishment as they overcome challenges as a team!

Please note, while no experience is necessary, youth and adult campers should be in good mental and physical condition and be able to carry between a 40–50 liter pack while hiking (between 25-40 lbs). Hiking will vary between 3-7 miles a day and elevation will be between 7,500-9,750 feet.

Youth Backpacking Program

Our 3-day trip is designed for those who are first timers or who are newer to camping and backpacking. Our 4-day trip is designed for campers who have prior backpacking experience. Berkeley Echo Lake Camp will provide all food and backpacking gear (tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, etc.). 

Adult Backpacking Program

Our 4-day trip for adults is designed for both first-timers and experienced backpackers alike. Bring your own gear or rent supplies from Berkeley Echo Lake Camp for a small daily fee. All food will be provided.

50 and Better Camp

Ages: 50 and older are suggested, but all adults are welcome, those registered can bring additional campers that are 30 years or older

Treat yourself to a restful stay in nature at either Echo Lake or Tuolumne Camp. Adults can enjoy hiking, fishing, and other camper-led activities. Camp fees cover up to two people per tent, including lodging, meals, and programs.

Artist and Scientist-in-Residence Programs 

Our Artist and Scientist-In-Residence programs provide unique opportunities for our campers to enjoy arts & crafts and science-based activities while at camp. Artists and scientists are selected based on each camp’s needs. Artists and scientists commit to teaching about 6-9 hours of total program time. This commitment guarantees a complimentary stay for the artist/scientist and up to 1 adult or 2 children at no charge. Space is limited.

For those interested in becoming an Artist or Scientist in-residence at Echo Lake Camp, please complete an application and email it to Camp Manager, Jill Reasor at jreasor@berkeleyca.gov.

• Echo Lake Artist-in-Residence Application
• Echo Lake Scientist-in-Residence Application

Work Weekend

Ages: 13 and up

Overnight camps need the help of skilled and general laborers to complete several work projects before our season begins. This is an excellent opportunity to support Echo Lake and Tuolumne Camp and the thousands of participants who enjoy these beautiful City of Berkeley locations annually. 

In return, campers will enjoy a fun weekend of hard work, fellowship with supporters of City of Berkeley Camps, and a weekend in the Sierra or near Yosemite, with meals and a cabin tent provided. 

Activities 

Both Berkeley Echo Lake and Berkeley Tuolumne Camp offer excellent outdoor recreation opportunities, including: 

• Archery
• Arts & Crafts
• Campfires
• Canoeing (Echo only)
• Dances
• Fishing
• Group Games
• Local Hiking
• Music & Singing
• Night Hikes
• Sports
• Star Gazing
• Swimming (in the river at Tuolumne; in the pool and Echo Lake at Echo)
• Talent Shows
• Nature Activities 

For more information about our activities and our program please download our information packets below. 

Camp Contact Information

For reservations and general information, call (510) 981-5140 or email camps@berkeleyca.gov.