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River Camp

River Camp, hosted by the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, provides a fun and safe place for campers of all ages to spend time at the river exploring, playing, making friends, and learning about nature. The San Joaquin River is one of the most beautiful and important natural resources in our area-our water source, home to fish and wildlife, and some of our last undeveloped open space. At River Camp, children have the opportunity to experience this treasure right in their own backyard.

River Camp Mission and Values

The mission of River Camp is to foster memorable experiences that connect youth to the San Joaquin River through fun and engaging educational activities. River Camp runs on the following core values:
  • River Camp is a safe and fun environment for self-expression and personal growth.
  • River Camp is an inclusive community.
  • River Camp is environmentally friendly and promotes stewardship.
  • River Camp is mutually influential; campers learn from counselors, and counselors learn from campers.

2023 River Camp Programs

In 2023, River Camp consists of 6 programs. Click on the program name below for more information and 2023 dates. Members-only registration begins on February 1st, general registration begins on March 1st. Please note: A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration: $50 for River Camp or $25 for Young Explorers. Full refunds (less the deposit amount) will be given if requested at least 7 days prior to your camp start date. If you cancel less than 7 days prior to your camp start date, refunds will only be given for medical or family emergencies. All registrations are considered final. Once you have completed registration and payment, switching to another session will require cancelling your reservation, forfeiting the non-refundable deposit, and completing a new registration (including a new non-refundable deposit).
Spring Break Camp
1st-8th Grade four day camp program at the River Center and Owl Hollow. April 3rd-6th.
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Young Explorers Camp
Pre-K and Kindergarten mini-camp program offering Tu-Th half-day sessions for campers ages 3.5-entering Kindergarten (note: no swim). All campers must be potty trained.
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River Camp Adventures
Environmental education-based day camp for 1st-5th grade campers held at Scout Island.
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River Camp Rangers
Leadership, team building, and science day camp for 6th-8th grade campers held at Owl Hollow.
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River Camp Voyagers
Outdoor skills and paddle sports-focused camp for High School students held at Sycamore Island.
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River Camp at Firebaugh
Our rural camp is held in Firebaugh, serving local 1st-8th grade youth with 6 one-week sessions each summer.
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Junior Leader Program
High school volunteer program for all River Camp programs.
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River Camp FAQs

Membership Benefits:

Benefits include early access to registration beginning on February 1st and reduced fees for River Parkway Trust members at the $100 membership level or higher. You can become a member online. If you're a member and haven't received your code, please contact (559) 248-8480. A DISCOUNT CODE MUST BE ENTERED DURING REGISTRATION; DISCOUNTS WILL NOT BE RETROACTIVELY APPLIED.
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Become A River Camp Sponsor!
Sign up to get more information on becoming a River Camp Sponsor!