Headwaters Science Institute
Headwaters Science Institute · Private
Headwaters Science Institute is a Soda Springs 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering summer science camps for ages 5–18 that combine hiking, water exploration and nature investigation with real science mentorship. Options include week-long outdoor day camps (such as the Truckee Summer Science Day Camp) and 3–5 day overnight field camps (such as the Girls Summer Science Research Camp), where older students design and carry out environmental research projects in the Sierra.
Camps
| Camp | Dates | Ages | Price | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truckee: Water Week9:00am – 3:00pmRegister → | Aug 17 – Aug 21, 2026 | 5–12 | $455/wk | Open |
$455 per week (includes Headwaters T-shirt), CIT $230
Operator conflict - overview page lists this theme as Jul 13-17
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 Headwaters Science Institute directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
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★★★★★Anna PattyMy son completed his research with Headwaters Science Institute during his sophomore year, and it was truly an amazing experience. He gained a deep understanding of the research process, and the skills he developed here helped him later pursue research opportunities at two different universities over the following summers. This program played a major role in shaping his love of science. We are incredibly grateful for the mentorship and support he received. One of the things we appreciated most is that Headwaters gives students the flexibility to explore a topic that genuinely interests them, rather than following a traditional pre-collegiate model focused on memorizing facts. It encourages curiosity, independence, and real scientific thinking.
★★★★★Edward Hilton
★★★★★Tes KoGreat and productive experience
★★Benjamin SoperOrganization was lacking and the main organizer of the school camp was not very helpful or organized. Lacked experience with large groups. Group leaders were good, but they are grad students from other schools that come out to help. The kids had a good time, but it could have been way better with better program organization and purpose.
★★★★★Martha SellersHeadwaters 3 day program wa of the best experiences of my daughter's time in high school. Her environmental science class did hands on research projects and presentions. I believe it turned her on to science and her bio-chem college major. Well run, inclusive and fun.