Muir Beach, CA, USA
Slide Ranch offers a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere where children connect with nature, animals, and food in a meaningful way. On the coast of Northern California, this camp utilizes its working ranch setting to engage kids in caring for goats, chickens, and ducks, harvesting from organic gardens, cooking fresh food, exploring trails and tidepools, and playing outdoors in a safe, supervised environment.
What makes the camp special is its blend of farm life and wilderness: kids don’t just visit animals — they help tend to them. They don’t just play in nature—they explore it. Small group sizes, led by trained outdoor educators, create an intentional and interactive experience that helps children grow their confidence and curiosity.
This camp appeals to children aged roughly 5–12 for the core summer program, with a leadership track for ages 12–17. Kids who love animals, the outdoors, exploring, getting their hands dirty, and learning where their food comes from will thrive here. The coastal setting is cool and breezy, so layers are a must for outdoor days.
| Ages: | 5–12 |
| Type: | Day |
| Month: | Summer |
| Setting: | Ranch |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Water Activities: | Water Activities, Pool |
| Adventure: | Adventure, Nature & Exploration, Farming, Wildlife, Zoo |
| Academics: | Academics, Science, Animal Science, Biology, Environmental Science |
| Address: | Slide Ranch, 2025 Shoreline Highway, Muir Beach, CA, USA |
| Muir Beach | |
| USA |
| Dates | Days | Price | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08.06.26 - 14.08.26 | 68 | $650 |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
The camp emphasizes food from the ranch and garden, with campers harvesting vegetables and helping prepare simple meals. Families pack their child’s lunch, snacks, and water bottle for the day. The entire environment is peanut-free, and families are asked to pack lunches that avoid peanuts and tree nuts.
The camp encourages zero-waste or low-waste lunches and the use of reusable containers. Because campers often cook and eat what they harvest, food experiences are hands-on and educational. Families are advised to inform the staff ahead of time about any dietary restrictions or allergies to ensure proper care.
Slide Ranch maintains clear and thorough safety practices. All staff undergo interviews, reference checks, background screenings, and certification in First Aid and CPR. Camper drop-off and pick-up procedures require ID verification, and only pre-authorized adults can collect children.
Safety rules extend to every part of the camp day—car-pooling and parking procedures are designed to minimize congestion, and all outdoor activities are carefully supervised. The coastal environment means campers experience a range of weather and terrain, so sturdy shoes and layered clothing are required. Daily tick checks are encouraged both at camp and at home to maintain everyone's health.
Children must be fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of medication before attending camp. They should stay home if they or anyone in their household shows symptoms of contagious illness.
Slide Ranch staff are trained in First Aid and CPR, and they maintain an allergy-aware, peanut-free environment. While no on-site nurse or medical facility is mentioned, staff are prepared to handle minor health needs and will contact parents if more serious care is required. Families with specific medical concerns should discuss these with the camp in advance.
Fridays bring a beloved “Garden Party” where campers share what they’ve created or learned during the week. If garden produce is ready, kids host a small farmers’ market for families to enjoy. Another favorite tradition is tie-dyeing camp T-shirts—many wear them proudly for the closing celebration.
Campers are encouraged to embrace five simple challenges throughout the week: get dirty, try something new, ask questions, make new friends, and have fun. These playful yet meaningful traditions give every child a sense of accomplishment and belonging by the end of the week.
The activities at Slide Ranch are hands-on, nature-centered, and built to inspire curiosity, confidence, and connection. Each week, campers are invited to care for animals, harvest and cook food, explore coastal ecosystems, and collaborate with peers and mentors. Small-group settings facilitate guided discovery and creativity, with each day offering a balance of structure and freedom.
Late pick-ups after the grace period incur an after-care fee
Camp is entirely peanut-free; families must follow the food policy
Scholarships are available to make camp accessible to all
