Deer Crossing Wilderness Camp

★★★★★KAZ 5

We have two teenagers who have attended Deer Crossing for five years (son two years and daughter three years and counting). This camp gives such an incredible and unique experience and both teens absolutely love it. My son was so proud to come away from camp as a skilled wind surfer and to have gone on a multiple day backpack trip. My daughter told us about Big Jeff (the Jeffrey Pine Tree she learned to climb), kayak lessons, rock climbing, and the list goes one. Our kids have been to other overnight camps and said the think that they love most about Deer Crossing is that they really learn how to do something new and learn new skills. This camp is a great confidence builder, builds leadership skills, and is just such an awesome opportunity - can't recommend it enough.

★★★★★Bob Summers

Your search is over for the ideal overnight wilderness camp in the Sierra. Both of our kids have attended for 4 years now with our oldest completing the LIT - leader in training program. Our kids have gained valuable confidence, perspective and leadership skills which will help them for life. We only wish there was an adult version! Yes, this is expensive - but it is worth every penny and when combined with a Dependent Savings Account it is manageable.

★★★★★K Bart

My 11yo attended the one week session this summer. The setting is idyllic, the list of activities is impressive, and the owners/staff are top grade. They will meet/zoom with you personally prior to camp to give a thorough overview, including safety protocols and address any specific questions. The co-owners actually attend/lead the camp + several engaging 20-something staffers, which keeps the staff/camper ratio low. They email pics during the week to keep parents in the loop. The only downside is that the location is off the beaten path so drop off / pick up is a huge driving commitment, though they offer a tour bus shuttle option. It was my son's first time at a sleepaway camp and so he was somewhat nervous but came home proudly regaling stories of their daily adventures, tasty camp food (!), new skills, and new friends. He says he missed home but felt completely supported by the staff and the loving camp dog. By the end of the week he was disappointed that he hadn't signed up for the 2 week session. He's already asking to go next year. Total success!

★★★★★Kim Kotnik

Our daughter describes her time at Deer Crossing as the best time of her life (and we are a fun, outdoorsy family to begin with). The program, instructors, counselors, staff and facilities/location are truly exceptional (natural paradise of a gorgeous lake surrounded by trees and mountains). In addition to all the fun, Deer Crossing emphasizes real skills development in numerous activities from kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, wind surfing, sailing, and seemingly a million other things. Safety standards are high. I toured the camp on day #1 on a small parent tour and appreciated being able to see the place first hand. Food rating as reported by kiddos = A+. We plan to return next summer! Thank you, Doug, John, Rob, Laura and all Deer Crossing team members.

★★★★★L Sharma

This is the 3rd time one of our sons has attended Deer Crossing and we will be back! This is truly a positive outdoor wilderness overnight camp experience. The camp weaves leadership and independence into daily activities while being supportive and respectful. Activities include rock climbing, tree climbing, archery, wind surfing, canoeing and so much more! Campers get to choose 3 activities per day and the staff is their to teach skills to help them move to the next level. Towards the end of the 2 week camp, campers choose an "out trip" to go on where they go on on overnight trips out in the wilderness and sleep under the stars. This was a highlight for both of our sons!