Angelus Oaks, CA, USA
Camp Tahquitz is a well-established overnight camp operated by the local council that spans more than 640 acres of forested terrain at high elevation — providing clean mountain air and an environment naturally conducive to exploration and growth. The atmosphere blends structured programming with plenty of unstructured time in nature, giving kids the chance to try new skills, make friends, and build confidence.
What makes it special is the combination of “classic camp” activities (rifle, archery, climbing, horsemanship, swimming) with a rich outdoor setting that encourages more adventurous experiences: backcountry hikes, COPE (challenge) courses, and nature study. The camp’s long history and dedicated staff add to the sense of tradition and community, lending a sense of belonging and heritage.
This camp is particularly suited for youth in the Scouts BSA program (roughly ages 11–17, depending on your unit and readiness) who are ready for an overnight camp week in a mountain setting. Whether your child is an experienced camper seeking new challenges or a first-timer ready to step up, Camp Tahquitz offers a wide variety of activities and skill levels so many children will find something engaging.
| Ages: | 11–17 |
| Type: | Overnight |
| Month: | Summer |
| Lodging: | Cabin |
| Setting: | Mountains |
| Gender: | Boys Only |
| Sports: | Sports, Sports Training, Athletic Training, General Sports, Shooting, Archery, Riflery |
| Water Activities: | Water Activities, Pool, Swimming |
| Adventure: | Adventure, Challenge, Rock Climbing, Ropes Course, Nature & Exploration, Backpacking, Hiking, Scouting, Horseback Riding, Tactical Skills, Wilderness |
| Academics: | Academics, Career, Leadership, Life Skills |
| Health: | Special Needs, Burn |
| Dates | Days | Price | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21.06.26 - 27.06.26 | 7 | $625 | |
| 21.06.26 - 27.07.26 | 37 | $650 | |
| 28.06.26 - 04.07.26 | 7 | $650 | |
| 28.06.26 - 04.07.26 | 7 | $625 | |
| 05.07.26 - 11.07.26 | 7 | $625 | |
| 05.07.26 - 11.07.26 | 7 | $650 | |
| 12.07.26 - 18.07.26 | 7 | $625 | |
| 12.07.26 - 18.07.26 | 7 | $650 | |
| 19.07.26 - 25.07.26 | 7 | $625 | |
| 19.07.26 - 25.07.26 | 7 | $650 |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
While detailed safety protocols are not exhaustively listed online, the camp operates under the nationally recognized Scouting organization’s standards and uses trained volunteer staff, many of whom have formal camping and leadership credentials. The program includes shooting-sports (rifle, shotgun), climbing and rappelling, swimming, and horsemanship — each of these require specific supervision and range/target controls, which the camp maintains as part of its outdoor-adventure program. Parents can feel reasonably confident that the camp is experienced in offering high-adventure activities in a structured, safe way.
Camp Tahquitz leans into its long legacy (over 100 years in operation) and uses that heritage to create a shared identity for campers. The “Tahquitz Community” (volunteer summer-staff honor society) helps perpetuate traditions of service and leadership. Evening campfires, outpost adventures, and historic log-cabin program centers all contribute to a sense that campers are part of something bigger — a legacy of outdoor adventure. The hiking opportunities into wilderness terrain and the skills-based outdoor programs also reinforce a tradition of challenge, discovery, and personal growth. These ongoing traditions help reinforce friendships, resilience, and a rich camp memory.
Camp Tahquitz provides a robust and varied program where campers spend their days rotating through skill-building stations, high-adventure experiences, and merit-badge opportunities, with evenings dedicated to campfire rituals, reflection, and group camaraderie. The high mountain setting enhances every activity — from swimming and trail rides to shooting sports and nature study — giving children a strong sense of place. The program is designed so that both new and experienced campers can engage at their own pace, make new friends, try new things, and strengthen their outdoor skills.
Refunds are limited: if the camper is unable to attend before an established refund date, a partial refund applies; after arrival or the start of session, refunds are generally not provided.
Some activities require age/skill prerequisites and may not be available to all campers.
The camp is managed via the Scouting unit registration process — families generally register through their troop or council.
