Camp Chrysalis is an overnight outdoor-education and nature camp for youth ages 9-17, running multi-day sessions in the Big Sur redwoods, along the Mendocino coast, and in the Sierra Nevada. Small mixed-age groups explore science and ecology in a community-focused setting; all sessions depart at 9 AM from Berkeley. Founded in 1982 by two Bay Area teachers.
Sessions & rates
| Session | Dates | Ages | Price | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 PinnaclesRegister → | Apr 7 – Apr 12, 2026 | 10–16 | $1000 | Past season |
| Big SurRegister → | Jun 16 – Jun 23, 2026 | 9–15 | $1900 | Past season |
| MendocinoRegister → | Jun 28 – Jul 7, 2026 | 10–16 | $2100 | Past season |
Spring 2026 Pinnacles — ages 10 - 16 fees: $1000. $400 deposit at sign-up; balance due April 1; 4% credit-card surcharge.
Big Sur — ages 9 - 15 fees: $1900. $400 deposit at sign-up; balance due April 1; 4% credit-card surcharge.
Mendocino — ages 10 - 16 fees: $2100. $400 deposit at sign-up; balance due April 1; 4% credit-card surcharge.
Sierra — ages 11 - 17 fees: $2300. $400 deposit at sign-up; balance due April 1; 4% credit-card surcharge.
Backpacking — ages 14 - 17 fees: $1900. $400 deposit at sign-up; balance due April 1; 4% credit-card surcharge.
Availability shown as of Aug 7, 2026.
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 Camp Chrysalis directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
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★★★★★Gregory GregoryMy 18-year-old daughter has been a camper at Camp Chrysalis every year since she was 7. She told me recently that it's been her favorite time of her life so far. In addition, she has used her time at camp in college applications and job interviews. I can't thank Lee enough for all he and his team have given to my daughter and her future.
★★★★★Jasmine ObenzaThis trip was a huge confidence booster for my nephew, and it was amazing to see him so proud of his new skills. He learned to paddle and set up his own tent, and now he can't wait to return.
★★★★★lando RojasWe did our workshop there and we all came back with a real love for the outdoors. This will surely not be our last at Camp Chrysalis.
★★★★★Jill Nicole CabusoraMy niece had the best week learning to canoe and making new friends. I haven't seen her laugh that much all year, and the small group size was perfect for her.
★★★★★Kevin Castro CasanovaWe had the time of our life backpacking and sleeping under the stars. We had our retreat there, came back so much more confident and recharged!