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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.

2022 River Camp Programs

In 2022, River Camp consists of 6 programs. Click on the program name below for more information and 2022 dates. Members-only registration begins on February 1st, general registration begins on March 1st.
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.
River Camp Voyagers
Outdoor skills and paddle sports-focused camp for High School students held at Sumner Peck Ranch.
River Camp at Firebaugh
Our rural camp is held in Firebaugh, serving local 1st-8th grade youth with 6 one-week sessions each summer.
Junior Leader Program
High school volunteer program for all River Camp programs.

River Camp 2022 and COVID-19

Our top priority is protecting the health and safety of our campers, Junior Leaders, and staff. As camp programs take place entirely outdoors, kids will have plenty of space to spread out and lots of fresh air to breathe. We will monitor current requirements and guidance documents and implement best practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Safety measures will include:
  • Daily health screenings
  • Reduced group sizes and camp capacity
  • Physical distancing in daily games and activities
  • Frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizer
  • Increased sanitization of camp facilities and activity materials
  • Use of masks indoors and any time participants might not be able to maintain 6 feet of distance
  • For over 25 years, River Camp has provided youth with the opportunity to spend meaningful time outdoors, create new friendships, and learn about the local ecosystem. We look forward to continuing these traditions in 2022.

Please note: River Camp 2022 program offerings are subject to change based on current conditions and public health requirements; please visit www.riverparkway.org for the most current information on River Camp 2022. Click here for COVID-19 specific information.

Give the Gift of Fun!

Surprise the special child in your life by sending them to camp. Click here for more information on purchasing a River Camp gift certificate.

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 e-mail mschnur-salimbene@riverparkway.org. 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!