Big Bear City, CA, USA
Camp Woodcraft is part of Woodcraft Rangers, rooted in a long tradition of making outdoor experiences accessible to young people. Its mission centers on inclusion, environmental stewardship, and empowerment: they intentionally break down barriers so that all youth, regardless of background or ability, can access the wonders of nature. Located in Big Bear Valley, the camp gives campers a chance to spend full nights under the stars, master new outdoor skills, and form deep friendships — all while learning about environmental responsibility and social-emotional growth.
What makes Woodcraft special is its balance of classic camp fun and intentional learning. Campers are not just playing; they’re also exploring, reflecting, and growing. The camp’s curriculum includes archery, rock climbing, nature exploration, low-ropes challenge, and more. On top of that, Woodcraft integrates environmental education: campers learn about outdoor ethics, ecology, and how to care for our planet. The all-gender, inclusive community encourages respect, empathy, and collaboration.
Because the summer sleepaway program is for ages 7–13, it’s especially well-suited for children who are old enough for independence but still benefit from close staff supervision and a tight-knit community. For teens, there’s a separate Counselor-in-Training (CIT) track (ages 14–17), offering leadership training and a chance to mentor younger campers.
| Ages: | 7–13 |
| Type: | Overnight |
| Month: | Summer |
| Lodging: | Cabin |
| Setting: | Lake |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Sports: | Sports, Team Sports, Basketball, Soccer, Sports Training, Golf, Skating & Boarding, Skateboarding, Shooting, Archery |
| Adventure: | Adventure, Challenge, Rock Climbing, Ropes Course |
| Academics: | Academics, Science, Mathematics |
| Arts: | Fine Arts, Arts & Crafts, Painting, Dance, Music |
| Dates | Days | Price | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14.06.26 - 19.06.26 | 6 | $950 | |
| 12.07.26 - 17.07.26 | 6 | $950 |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
Camp Woodcraft’s cabins are rustic and simple: they do not have electricity, giving children a real “camp under the stars” feel. According to the parent guide, cabins have bunk beds with mattresses and storage shelves, grouped in clusters to foster community, and each cluster has an outdoor gathering spot with picnic tables, hammocks, rocking chairs, and small reading areas. Bathrooms are modern and shared; nearby bathhouses provide showers and toilets, with privacy in individual stalls.
Camp Woodcraft provides three meals a day plus snacks, all in a communal dining hall with both indoor and outdoor seating. Because the camp is nut-free, their food is prepared using nut-free oils, and they carefully accommodate dietary restrictions (meat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, etc.). Parents must note any food allergies on the health form so the kitchen and medical staff can make adjustments as needed. Campers are not allowed to bring outside food or snacks — this helps keep mealtimes safe and manageable for dietary sensitivities.
Safety is a foundational part of the Woodcraft experience. The staff-to-camper ratio is modest (6–8 campers per counselor), allowing counselors to know and supervise their campers closely. In addition, high-risk activities — like rock climbing or low-ropes challenge — are staffed by trained instructors. The camp is ACA-accredited, meaning it meets national standards for emergency planning, medical supervision, food safety, and more. There are walkie-talkies for staff communication, and in emergencies, there are established protocols for evacuation.
Camp Woodcraft has a structured medical policy. At check-in, parents and campers review health histories, medications, and any special needs with medical staff. All medicines are registered and administered under supervision; at the end of camp, medications are returned to a parent or authorized adult. The camp nurse or medical staff is on-site during sessions to respond to first-aid needs. According to their parent guide, all staff are trained in behavior management and in building a caring, supportive community, which helps spot emotional or physical distress early.
Woodcraft has a heritage that dates back to its founder Ernest Thompson Seton and emphasizes outdoor ethics, care for nature, and personal growth. Each cabin cluster has its own gathering area — a cozy, communal space where campers can read, chat, or reflect. Evening campfires are a staple: campers gather to sing, share stories, and connect under the sky. Small “unit agreements,” created together by campers and counselors, help set norms for behavior, respect, and community care. The camp also practices a “Camp-4-All” philosophy: inclusion is not just a policy but a lived value. Even “quiet moments” are structured: many campers take time to reflect or journal about their experiences and learnings.
Camp Woodcraft’s program is thoughtfully designed around nature, skill-building, community, and inclusion. Campers rotate through two activity periods each day, choosing from a variety of classic camp offerings and nature-based challenges. In addition to physical activities, campers engage in environmental education and practice pro-social values in small groups. Every day has intentional structure — balanced with downtime — so kids can both be energized and reflect. In the evening, they come together in small groups or around the campfire to connect more deeply and reflect on their day.a
Campers are grouped by age and gender in cabins.
The ratio is about 6–8 campers per counselor.
Electronics are not allowed: campers are asked to disconnect, and devices will be held until check-out.
The camp has a strict nut-free policy — no outside food, no peanut products allowed.
