8 Best Overnight Summer Camps in Southern California for 2026

Looking for an unforgettable overnight summer camp for your kids or teens in Southern California for 2026? From old-school traditional camps to specialty adventure camps, we hand-picked eight of Southern California’s most incredible sleepaway camps that are sure to give your kids the best summer ever. Want more options? Browse all overnight camps in California. 🌞

Camp	Location	Age Range
AstroCamp	Idyllwild, CA	8-17
Catalina Sea Camp	Avalon, CA	8-17
SOCAPA Los Angeles	Los Angeles, CA	14-18
Camp Brave Trails	Near LA	12-17
Endless Summer Surf Camp	Agra, CA	11-18
Carmel Valley Tennis Camp	Carmel Valley, CA	10-18
River Way Ranch Camp	Sanger, CA	7-16
4-H Summer Camp	Crestline, CA	8-18

---

AstroCamp – Idyllwild, CA

Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, AstroCamp is the ultimate playground for thrill-seeking and curious kids. More than just a science camp, AstroCamp is an adventure where building rockets and gazing through state-of-the-art telescopes happens alongside rock climbing and mountain hiking. The vibe is unapologetically “nerd cool,” creating a haven for kids who might feel out of place at a sports-centric camp. If your child loves STEM but still craves the thrill of the outdoors, they will thrive here, surrounded by peers who share their passion for the cosmos.

---

Catalina Sea Camp – Idyllwild, CA

Located at Toyon Bay on Catalina Island, this camp turns the ocean into a daily classroom and playground. It offers a rare mix of marine biology labs and high-adventure water sports like sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Campers don’t just swim, they explore kelp forests and learn environmental stewardship. This is the perfect fit for the water-obsessed kid or aspiring marine biologist who wants to literally dive deep into adventure. If your child is ready to trade a cabin for the coast and a backpack for a wetsuit, this is their dream camp.

---

SOCAPA – Los Angeles, CA

Hosted at Occidental College, the School of Creative and Performing Arts (SOCAPA) is less “camp” and more of a summer intensive. It’s designed for serious teen artists dedicated to pursuing their passion in filmmaking, acting, dance, or photography. Days are spent in rigorous workshops with hands-on learning, mimicking a real-world production environment. Nights and weekends are spent filled with fun summer activities and adventures around LA like theme parks, live tapings, and more. SOCAPA is perfect for creative teens who want to find their artistic crew and level up their craft.

---

Camp Brave Trails – Near LA

Brave Trails is more than a summer camp; it’s a leadership institute disguised as a joyous outdoor escape for LGBTQ+ youth. With a mission to build the next generation of changemakers, the program blends traditional fun like archery and stargazing with workshops on activism, drag, and queer history. It’s the ideal fit for teens seeking a deeply affirming space where they don’t have to explain their identity. If your child needs a community where they can celebrate who they are while learning how to lead, Brave Trails offers a life-changing “home away from home.”

---

Endless Summer Surf Camp – Agra, CA

Set on the sands of San Onofre State Beach, Endless Summer is exactly what it sounds like: a surf-obsessed dream. As one of the few camps where you actually sleep at the beach, the focus here is all about mastering the waves. Days are spent in the water with professional instructors, followed by nights around a campfire under the stars. Perfect for active kids who wants to learn to surf or refine their cutback in a chill, supportive environment. If your child is happiest in a wetsuit and doesn’t mind sand in their sleeping bag, they’ll love it.

---

Carmel Valley Tennis Camp – Carmel Valley, CA

Family-owned for over 50 years, Carmel Valley strikes a precise balance between rigorous tennis training and traditional camp fun. Campers hit the courts for hours of daily instruction and match play, but also enjoy classic camp activities like archery, arts, and high ropes course. CVTC helps student athletes see real improvement while avoiding burnout. If your child wants to return to school with a better backhand but still craves the bonding of a screen-free, bunk-style summer, this is their match.

---

River Way Ranch Camp – Sanger, CA

River Way Ranch Camp is a modern take on the traditional overnight camp experience. With over 75 activities, top-notch facilities, amazing staff, and a strong emphasis on person growth and safety, River Way is perfect for kids who want to try everything. From watersports and horseback riding to arts and adventure, they have it all. This high-energy camp offers a warm, family-like atmosphere where kids can make friends, build confidence, and gain life skills in a supportive and safe environment. Sessions are 1- or 2-weeks, with the option to combine for up to 8 weeks.

---

4-H Summer Camp – Crestline, CA

4‑H Summer Camp is an affordable weeklong overnight camp for ages 8 to 18 in the San Bernardino National Forest. Hosted at Camp Seely, this traditional camp experience offers kids days filled with fun, friendship, and hands-on activities like hiking, swimming, crafts, sports, and team‑building challenges. The vibe is welcoming, down‑to‑earth, and community‑oriented, with kids coming from all over California and beyond. It’s a great fit for families seeking a low-cost, screen‑free camp that blends outdoor adventure, creativity, and personal growth in a supportive environment.

---

Want more California camps? 🏕️

Browse all overnight summer camps in California. Filter by activity, age, gender, and more to find the perfect fit for your kid or teen in summer 2026.