2024/04/13 - Photos taken in Saratoga, Calif., on Saturday, 4 13, 2024.

Nature Camp

Come spend a fun week in Saratoga with the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA at our Nature Summer Camp! Campers will dive into outdoor adventures that bring local plants, wildlife, and ecosystems to life through hands-on exploration and discovery.

  • Camp activities include art projects, animal-themed games, nature crafts, daily activities along our Learning Path with interactive exhibits, and nature excursions.
  • We will observe local wildlife, investigate tracks and clues, and develop the skills needed to identify wild animal species.
  • Campers will learn about native plants and animals of woodlands, wetlands, and other ecosystems from the San Francisco Bay area to the Central Coast.
  • We will also examine how we can help wildlife in our own backyards.
  • Nature Camp Registration Opens: Monday, March 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM.  The registration link will be posted here at that time.

Want to learn more about Nature Camp? Contact our Wildlife Educator at EDidato@phs-spca.org or 650-340-7022 x2408.

Nature Camp FAQs

What Nature Camp sessions are offered for summer 2026?
  • July 6 -10           (8-10 years old) 
  • July 13 – 17      (11-13 years old) 
  • July 20 -224     (8-10 years old) 
  • July 27 – 31       (11-13 years old) 

Click here to see photos from last year’s adventures.

What is the camp fee?

$450 

Can I register my child for more than one week of Nature Camp?

Sorry, no. Due to high demand we try to allow as many children as possible to attend Nature Camp. Since each week of camp has the same curriculum, your child would not be gaining new experiences by attending more than one session. 

My child attended Animal Camp in the past, can I sign them up to attend again this year?

Yes and no. Yes, if your child attended Animal Camp at the Lantos Center for Compassion in Burlingame last year, they may attend one session of Nature Camp this year. 
If your child is attending Animal Camp in Burlingame this summer, they may not also attend Nature Camp. 

 

What are the age requirements to attend Nature camp?

We offer camp sessions for two different age groups, 8-10 years old and 11-13 years old. While the curriculum for both age groups is similar, activities are tailored to be age appropriate. It is important for the structure of our program and the experience of the students that campers of similar age be grouped together and we are unable to make exceptions to age requirements.

Where is Nature Camp hosted?

Camp is held at our Wildlife Care Center in Saratoga: 24103 Congress Springs Rd., Saratoga, CA 95070.  Camp staff will greet and direct you from the main parking lot directly off Highway 9 on the first day of camp. Staff will be available to greet families by 8:50 am. Camp is held outdoors.

What is the timeframe of Nature Camp?

Camp starts at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. We are unable to offer extended childcare prior to or after camp hours. Please drop off your child no earlier than 8:50 a.m. and pick them up no later than 3:10 p.m.

What should or shouldn't my child bring to Nature Camp?

Your child needs to bring a lunch and water bottle to camp each day. We provide water through the day and snacks each afternoon. Please note these guidelines:

  • Since camp is held outdoors, campers must wear close-toed shoes to safely walk and hike at our outdoor facility. Please don’t allow your child to wear sandals.
  • Your child should bring sunscreen each day.
  • Your child should dress in clothing that is comfortable for hiking in and that may get dirty, and a warm layer such as a sweatshirt or jacket.

Cell phones are permitted so long as your child uses it appropriately. Reception is poor at the camp site. We are not responsible for lost, stolen or broken devices.

Your child is not allowed to bring their own pet to Nature Camp. Please do not bring your pet to pick up or drop off your child at camp.

Do you have guidelines regarding allergies and/or medications at Nature Camp?

It is common for children with mild allergies to attend camp. However, it’s important that parents let camp staff know in advance so we can plan for how your child will manage symptoms of their allergies. Call our Wildlife Educator to discuss your child’s allergies at 650-340-7022 x2408.  Camp is held outdoors and occasionally bees are present.

Lunch is eaten outdoors and occasionally bees are present.

If your child has food sensitivities or food allergies, please pack them their own snack each day (in addition to their lunch).

Please be aware that we are NOT a nut-free facility and while campers never come in contact with nuts during camp, peanut products may be used at our facility.

Only medication for serious and life-threatening conditions may be brought to camp. Campers that need to take medication at camp are required to self-administer their own medication, including EpiPens. However, camp staff are happy to assist children with minor cuts, bruises, scratches, and so forth.  

Is this camp suitable for children with disabilities?

Absolutely! In many cases we can accommodate campers with disabilities. Although Nature Camp is an outdoors camp, our hikes don’t include all-day uphill and downhill treks, but short walks on safe, established routes. 

If your child has a disability and you want to sign them up for Nature Camp, please call our Wildlife Educator at 650-340-7022 x2408, prior to registration day (March 9th) to discuss whether this camp is the right fit for your child, and how we can accommodate your child and make sure they have a positive experience at Nature Camp.  

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy provides a refund of the camp fee minus a $25 processing charge if we are notified at least four weeks before the session starts; a 50% refund if notified at least three weeks before; and no refund with less than three weeks’ notice. 

 

What does a typical day at Nature Camp look like?

Camp is held outdoors.  Children will learn about native plants and animals and other topics on our Learning Path, through games and activities, from guest speakers, including Wildlife staff, and through Wildlife Hospital updates.  A typical camp day includes games, nature observations, art projects, informal interactive instruction, and talks with experts. 

 

 

 

Do you offer scholarships?

Yes. Contact our Wildlife Educator for details and how to apply, 650-340-7022 x2408. Edidato@phs-spca.org