Berkeley Echo Lake Camp
City of Berkeley · Private
Berkeley Echo Lake Camp is a City of Berkeley overnight camp at Echo Lake, about 20 minutes from South Lake Tahoe at 7,400 feet, serving campers since 1923. Its youth camp offers week-long (6-day) sessions for kids ages 7-14 with hiking, swimming, archery, arts and crafts, campfires, talent shows and group games, plus a Counselor-in-Training track; the camp also runs Family Camp and adult '50 and Better' sessions. Meals and round-trip transportation from Berkeley are included, and low-income scholarships are available.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact City of Berkeley directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Google Reviews
Powered by Google
★★★★★Live Oak CoastOur kiddo just returned from camp and loved it! They had really positive reviews about the food (especially loved breakfasts) and the activities (especially archery). It was their first time to this camp and they compared it favorably to other sleep away camps we've done in the area. Great job to the CITs and camp staff — we'll be back next year! (Ps: we appreciate the excellent communication we've received and the ability to send camp grams to stay in touch)
★Olha BezdolnaOur son complained about bad hygiene, limited food, and bullying in the camp.
★★★★★Kathy CurranWell managed raised platform tent camp at 7400 ft elevation featuring killer views and easy access to Echo Lake activities. Sign up early if you want to come either with the kids or to the 50 and Better week.
★★★★★Patrick KaedingWe had a great time with the kids. There were lots of fun activities for the kids, including swimming, archery, arts and crafts, and games. The staff was all very excited to be there, and were skilled at getting the kids involved in the activities. It was fun and relaxing for parents as well, with great spots to sit and read or soak in the scenery, or go hiking or fishing. The food was pretty good (it is what you would hope for from a summer camp buffet-- healthy and hearty, and tasty-enough). There are lots of fun and cheesey chants and songs in the mess hall, an experience I had forgotten about from scout camp when I was younger. I highly recommend this summer camp experience for any family that enjoys the outdoors at all-- you don't need to 'rough it' much here, but just enjoy the outdoors.
★★★★★Paul ClemFantastic. Like with anything, the people who you are with often make or break your experience. The Echo Lake Camp staff hit the ball out of the park! I have rarely seen a staff so spirited and responsible in everything they do. The many children and adults for that matter were thrilled with the activities, organization, good food and vibe of the camp. This was a camp that gives all a chance to sit quietly and relax or partake in all kinds of crafts. I also felt comfortable with my children roaming around the camp as the staff and other campers all looked out for all the children. There is a comfortable friendliness about camp and with the spectacular Sierra views you can’t help to relax. First time at Echo Lake Camp and we will be back next summer ☺ Paul C.