Adventure Camps
This year, we are bringing back our most popular and classic summer trips, with one exception, our new Teen Adventure Challenge! Click on each camp below to see more information
Day Camps! (7 - 14 years)
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Our day camps explore different local areas of nature and adventures every day as well as integrate basic camping and survival skills into the activities each week. Kids may try out a new sport while hiking in the redwood forests, spend the afternoon paddling in coastal waters, climbing in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and exploring all the caves, beaches, rivers and waterfalls in between!
Cost: $515 Full and Partial Scholarships available. Please email info@venturefreefoundation.org for an application |
Teen Adventure Challenge (14 - 18 years)
This program was specifically created for our older/returning VFF campers who are looking for a physical challenge and a big helping of fun and adventure! This group will collaborate on all trip details and training plans over the course of the months leading up to the Adventure trip.
Pre-trip: This program requires enrolled campers to prepare by attending our bi-weekly virtual meetings as well as the 2 in-person training days. This is where we will detail logistics and set personal physical goals to prepare for the challenge which we will plan for as a group.
The trip: Backpacking through the high sierras to summit Mount Whitney!
Enrollment and Information
Based on the nature of this program, there are two short applications to enroll, one application must be completed by the Parent/Guardian, the second application must be completed by the camper/participant. Please follow the links provided to complete the applications.
Parent/Guardian Application: https://forms.gle/tX6mafcvH86WopPSA <
Camper Application: https://forms.gle/ccKAy3Xv4GEod9ne8
Please allow 1 week for your application to be processed. Emily may reach out by phone or email with follow up questions.
Campers will be enrolled on a first-come basis dependent only on acceptance of complete application.
Important Program dates:
*All meeting dates (virtual and in-person) are subject to change
*The Adventure trip will fall within the dates of June 5th - 13th. The final trip may be scheduled for a shorter period of time, and will not be scheduled for a longer period of time.
Cost: $1,200
Cost includes all pre-trip meetings and training days and all trip expenses (transportation, food, essential camping equipment)
Scholarships available. Email for an application.
Pre-trip: This program requires enrolled campers to prepare by attending our bi-weekly virtual meetings as well as the 2 in-person training days. This is where we will detail logistics and set personal physical goals to prepare for the challenge which we will plan for as a group.
The trip: Backpacking through the high sierras to summit Mount Whitney!
Enrollment and Information
Based on the nature of this program, there are two short applications to enroll, one application must be completed by the Parent/Guardian, the second application must be completed by the camper/participant. Please follow the links provided to complete the applications.
Parent/Guardian Application: https://forms.gle/tX6mafcvH86WopPSA <
Camper Application: https://forms.gle/ccKAy3Xv4GEod9ne8
Please allow 1 week for your application to be processed. Emily may reach out by phone or email with follow up questions.
Campers will be enrolled on a first-come basis dependent only on acceptance of complete application.
Important Program dates:
- Wednesday, April 7th: First meeting (Virtual) 7pm
- Wednesday, April 21st: Virtual group meeting 7pm
- Saturday, April 24th: In-Person, training adventure - ALL DAY
- Wednesday, April 28th: Virtual group meeting 7pm
- Wednesday, May 12th: Virtual group meeting 7 pm
- Saturday, May 15th: In-Person training adventure ALL DAY
- Wednesday, May 26th: Virtual group meeting 7pm
- Wednesday, June 2nd: Virtual group meeting 7pm
- Saturday, June 5th - Sunday, June 13th: Allocated Adventure Trip dates
*All meeting dates (virtual and in-person) are subject to change
*The Adventure trip will fall within the dates of June 5th - 13th. The final trip may be scheduled for a shorter period of time, and will not be scheduled for a longer period of time.
Cost: $1,200
Cost includes all pre-trip meetings and training days and all trip expenses (transportation, food, essential camping equipment)
Scholarships available. Email for an application.
Waterfall Campout (7 - 14 years)
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One of our favorite ways to cool off in the summer is splashing and swimming in the pools of beautiful waterfalls!
We will camp along the shore of Whiskeytown Lake, in the heart of Northern California's Waterfall mecca! With numerous nearby day trips to incredible waterfalls including Crystal creek, Brandy creek, Whiskeytown Falls, the 'World Famous' Burney Falls, and Venture Free's favorite jumping waterfall; McCloud! It is not surprising that we never make it to all of the waterfalls, but it depends on the ambition of the group! When we are not exploring one of the exciting waterfalls, other camp activities include; relaxing on the beach, swimming and playing in the lake, fishing, hiking, and camp games. This is definitely a trip for water-lovers! Cost: $850 Full and Partial Scholarships available. Please email info@venturefreefoundation.org for an application |
Surfin' Safari Campout (8 - 16 years)
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The ultimate California experience and Venture Free's classic summer surf trip is the perfect way to adventure over the summer. For those beach lovers out there, there is nothing much better than bumming it on the beach for a week; surfing, boogie boarding, BBQ'ing, campfires!
We will head down the Coast in search of good times and good waves for every level of surfer from beginner to advanced. And for those completely new to surfing, we have surf instructors ready to teach you the basics and help you in the water! We welcome all levels of water-lovers and beach-goers to Safari with us! Cost: $1250 Full and Partial Scholarships available. Please email info@venturefreefoundation.org for an application |
Backpacking Desolation (8 - 15 years)
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Bringing back a favorite and we are so excited!! Spend the last week of summer vacation with us, hiking sections of the PCT through Desolation Wilderness in Tahoe! We will make our way to lake Aloha where there are endless opportunities for exploring, swimming, jumping rocks, backcountry fishing… all while having fun and learning new skills!
No backpacking experience required. Cost: $750 Full and Partial Scholarships available. Please email info@venturefreefoundation.org for an application |
Additional Program Information
Dropping Off / Picking Up
The Venture Free Adventure Guides will meet you and your camper at the Vista Point parking lot located at the intersection of Skyline Blvd/Hwy 35 and Hwy 92. Our daily adventures take place at multiple locations throughout the greater Bay Area. For our Day Camp Adventures, drop off is as 8:30 AM and pick up is at 4:30 PM (at the same location.)
Because we are a mobile camp, we have the ability to be flexible. If you need to make special arrangements for a different pick up or drop off location, let us know and we will do what we can to work with you. (No guarantees as will generally be determined on our adventure location for the day)
Because we are a mobile camp, we have the ability to be flexible. If you need to make special arrangements for a different pick up or drop off location, let us know and we will do what we can to work with you. (No guarantees as will generally be determined on our adventure location for the day)
Be Prepared! (clothing, gear, sunscreen)
Kids should come prepared for a day full of adventure, wearing the appropriate clothing. Active clothes and active shoes that can get DIRTY are a must! A lot of camp time may be spent by the water so kids should bring a bathing suit, towel, and warm clothes!
VFF will provide sunscreen and strictly has kids re-apply throughout the day.
(If you require your camper to use a specific type of Sunscreen, please send with your camper)
Any activity specific gear (except bathing suits) will be provided by VFF
COVID update: All campers must also bring a mask to camp.
VFF will provide sunscreen and strictly has kids re-apply throughout the day.
(If you require your camper to use a specific type of Sunscreen, please send with your camper)
Any activity specific gear (except bathing suits) will be provided by VFF
COVID update: All campers must also bring a mask to camp.
Lunch/Meals
On adventure camp weeks, kids must bring their own lunch and full bottle of water. An afternoon snack and extra water will be provided. For overnight camp-outs and backpacking trips, all meals are provided by Venture Free.
Drop-in Day Camper
COVID update: While we love new friends and new campers, due to COVID, we temporarily will not allow drop-in campers. Please reach out to info@venturefreefoundation.org for more information
We love new friends! Drop–ins are allowed and welcome, however, please check with us before to confirm that there is space for your child.
We love new friends! Drop–ins are allowed and welcome, however, please check with us before to confirm that there is space for your child.
Refunds
Deposits are non-refundable
Deposits equal 25% of the Regular price of each specific camp
Refunds will be granted in the following manner:
75% Refunded (less the deposit) with more than 1 month notice from camp start date
50% Refunded (less the deposit) with more than 2 weeks notice from camp start date
25% Refunded (less the deposit) with more than 1 week notice from camp start date
No Refund with less than 1 weeks notice from camp start date
*Full refund (less the deposit) will be granted if all spots are filled or with Doctors note
COVID RELATED CANCELATIONS
If VFF summer camp is cancelled due to COVID and the ongoing Pandemic, your tuition will be refunded
We appreciate your understanding of our refund policy. As we are a small non-profit operation, all of the payments made for camps and trips go directly to our camp expenses. As we spend months preparing for summer camp, many of our summer expenses must be handled in advance of summer camp starting (gear purchases, campground reservations, vehicle maintenance, etc...)
Deposits equal 25% of the Regular price of each specific camp
Refunds will be granted in the following manner:
75% Refunded (less the deposit) with more than 1 month notice from camp start date
50% Refunded (less the deposit) with more than 2 weeks notice from camp start date
25% Refunded (less the deposit) with more than 1 week notice from camp start date
No Refund with less than 1 weeks notice from camp start date
*Full refund (less the deposit) will be granted if all spots are filled or with Doctors note
COVID RELATED CANCELATIONS
If VFF summer camp is cancelled due to COVID and the ongoing Pandemic, your tuition will be refunded
We appreciate your understanding of our refund policy. As we are a small non-profit operation, all of the payments made for camps and trips go directly to our camp expenses. As we spend months preparing for summer camp, many of our summer expenses must be handled in advance of summer camp starting (gear purchases, campground reservations, vehicle maintenance, etc...)
Camping Trip Equipment
All camping trip equipment is provided by VFF. This includes; tents, camping chairs, cooking and eating equipment/utensils, specific activity gear (climbing, surfing, boogie boards, etc), sunscreen, bug repellent
Personal gear that campers are responsible for providing on camping trips;
- clothing
- sleeping bag
- sleeping pad
- flashlight (headlight)
*VFF rents sleeping bags and sleeping pads. Please contact info@VentureFreeFoundation if you need to request a rental.
*VFF will also do what we can to make sure all campers have the proper personal gear. If your camper does not have the correct clothing/shoes necessary, please let us know so we can help!
Itemized packing lists with specific clothing and gear necessities for each specific trip will be emailed to attendees in advance
Personal gear that campers are responsible for providing on camping trips;
- clothing
- sleeping bag
- sleeping pad
- flashlight (headlight)
*VFF rents sleeping bags and sleeping pads. Please contact info@VentureFreeFoundation if you need to request a rental.
*VFF will also do what we can to make sure all campers have the proper personal gear. If your camper does not have the correct clothing/shoes necessary, please let us know so we can help!
Itemized packing lists with specific clothing and gear necessities for each specific trip will be emailed to attendees in advance
Pre-trip Meetings
A pre-trip meeting will be scheduled before the first summer trip. Please keep an eye on your email. This meeting will be scheduled for the end of May.
Disclosure: Due to Mother Nature’s wonderful ways, all trips are subject to change.
Disclosure: Due to Mother Nature’s wonderful ways, all trips are subject to change.
Parents at Camp
Parents frequently ask to join our adventures.We know... We have a great time and you want to join in!
As much as we appreciate your want to adventure with us, explore cool locations and experience new activities with your children, we have to ask parents not to attend our adventures.
A big part of every campers experience at camp relies on their ability to mitigate and manage their own risks. The simple fact is that, if a camper has their parents around, they may be more concerned with their parents actions and response to their decisions than to learning to manage those risks on their own.
As much as we appreciate your want to adventure with us, explore cool locations and experience new activities with your children, we have to ask parents not to attend our adventures.
A big part of every campers experience at camp relies on their ability to mitigate and manage their own risks. The simple fact is that, if a camper has their parents around, they may be more concerned with their parents actions and response to their decisions than to learning to manage those risks on their own.
Risk and Safety at VFF
Our goal is FUN! Yet, we still take safety very seriously. Every location and activity will start with a discussion about the risks involved, what they are, how to respond to situations if something happens, and how to prevent unnecessary risks.
We want our campers to be prepared and to learn to use their judgement. This is specific to the activities we do, as well as the locations we visit. For example; if we are to take our campers rock climbing, we will review information about the area (plants and animals, what to watch for, how to react) as well as specific Rock Climbing safety and guidelines.
We want kids to have the opportunity to learn their own boundaries, limits and capabilities by being informed and having the tools to manage their risks while learning their limits. .
We understand and truly believe in the importance of risky play, as many parents do, though it is normal to still worry about the possibility of injury. We value risk as a necessity that allows us to teach our campers to manage the risks around them. This builds judgement and boosts self confidence, often the confidence in their fellow campers as well. Being trusted to navigate your own risks encourages personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment.
Part of managing these risks is teaching campers to trust their instincts while encouraging them to try new things. This is why we choose to encourage, not require, participation in specific activities .
We want our campers to be prepared and to learn to use their judgement. This is specific to the activities we do, as well as the locations we visit. For example; if we are to take our campers rock climbing, we will review information about the area (plants and animals, what to watch for, how to react) as well as specific Rock Climbing safety and guidelines.
We want kids to have the opportunity to learn their own boundaries, limits and capabilities by being informed and having the tools to manage their risks while learning their limits. .
We understand and truly believe in the importance of risky play, as many parents do, though it is normal to still worry about the possibility of injury. We value risk as a necessity that allows us to teach our campers to manage the risks around them. This builds judgement and boosts self confidence, often the confidence in their fellow campers as well. Being trusted to navigate your own risks encourages personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment.
Part of managing these risks is teaching campers to trust their instincts while encouraging them to try new things. This is why we choose to encourage, not require, participation in specific activities .
Technology at Camp
A big part of Venture Free is to experience “life unplugged”.
We work to create an environment where our campers must learn to interact with each other. Talk to each other and make new friends. This is one of the reasons we value our “van time” so much. During van time, we make playlists, listen to music, play car games, or simply talk amongst the people next to us. It is a time to interact with others. And interacting with each other in a group is hindered by technology.
Phones:
Please do not send cell phones with your camper. One child’s communication with their parent can affect other campers and make their adjustment to camp more difficult.
In addition to limiting group communication, many of the places we travel to and explore do not have cell and/or data reception. By one camper having a phone or other tech device, it not only disrupts and alters their own experience at camp, but it also disrupts the other campers experience as well. Many of the activities we offer create perfect opportunities for a phone or tech device to break or get lost. VFF is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. Please DO NOT send a cell phone as a camera.
In addition to these social and communication reasons, there is a lot of research that shows the incredible benefits of children playing outside and away from technology.
Cameras:
Campers are allowed to bring their cameras to camp, as long as its only function is a camera. However, the counselors will be taking plenty of pictures that will be shared in a digital photo album with all campers families at the end of the week. Campers are welcome to ask counselors to take specific pictures and we occasionally have cameras available for the campers to use.
If your camper brings a camera to camp, please remember; VFF is NOT responsible to lost, stolen, or damaged items.
If a camper brings a phone or other tech device to camp we may collect the device to store safely in the van away from the risk of damage during activity. VFF is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. These devices will be left stored in the locked adventure van while we are adventuring if there are any special accommodation needs, please email Emily@VentureFreeFoundation.org
Technology at camp:
We can not entirely escape it now! But we also limit our technology at camp. We do stock a cell phone and tablet in the adventure van which are used for the following reasons;
Phone:
Tablet:
Under normal circumstances, both the phone and the tablet are only to be handled by counselors and camp staff.
We work to create an environment where our campers must learn to interact with each other. Talk to each other and make new friends. This is one of the reasons we value our “van time” so much. During van time, we make playlists, listen to music, play car games, or simply talk amongst the people next to us. It is a time to interact with others. And interacting with each other in a group is hindered by technology.
Phones:
Please do not send cell phones with your camper. One child’s communication with their parent can affect other campers and make their adjustment to camp more difficult.
In addition to limiting group communication, many of the places we travel to and explore do not have cell and/or data reception. By one camper having a phone or other tech device, it not only disrupts and alters their own experience at camp, but it also disrupts the other campers experience as well. Many of the activities we offer create perfect opportunities for a phone or tech device to break or get lost. VFF is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. Please DO NOT send a cell phone as a camera.
In addition to these social and communication reasons, there is a lot of research that shows the incredible benefits of children playing outside and away from technology.
Cameras:
Campers are allowed to bring their cameras to camp, as long as its only function is a camera. However, the counselors will be taking plenty of pictures that will be shared in a digital photo album with all campers families at the end of the week. Campers are welcome to ask counselors to take specific pictures and we occasionally have cameras available for the campers to use.
If your camper brings a camera to camp, please remember; VFF is NOT responsible to lost, stolen, or damaged items.
If a camper brings a phone or other tech device to camp we may collect the device to store safely in the van away from the risk of damage during activity. VFF is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. These devices will be left stored in the locked adventure van while we are adventuring if there are any special accommodation needs, please email Emily@VentureFreeFoundation.org
Technology at camp:
We can not entirely escape it now! But we also limit our technology at camp. We do stock a cell phone and tablet in the adventure van which are used for the following reasons;
Phone:
- GPS
- Spotify (camp playlists)
- Hot spot to run our tablet
- Communication with parents
Tablet:
- Check-in/out campers
- Easily accessible camper information and records
- Workspace for counselors as necessary
Under normal circumstances, both the phone and the tablet are only to be handled by counselors and camp staff.
Financial Aid
We offer full and partial scholarships. Please reach out to info@venturefreefoundation.org for more information!