Walden West
Santa Clara County Office of Education (Walden West) · Private
Walden West is an outdoor science school and summer camp operated by the Santa Clara County Office of Education, based in the Saratoga hills next to Sanborn County Park. Its summer day and residential programs span Wild Things (K-1) through Leaders in Training (8th) and Junior Counselors (9th), with activities including archery, swimming, arts and crafts, and a climbing wall and challenge course. The program emphasizes environmental and sustainability science.
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 Santa Clara County Office of Education (Walden West) directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Accreditations & licensing
As stated by the camp or listed in the accrediting organization's directory — confirm current status with the accreditor.
Google Reviews
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★★★★★Nyomi HelloI love Science camp my cabin leaders were chameleon and butterfly that instructor with lavender. It was so fun. I was in a Grey fox Cabin
★B.Y.My child enjoyed the hikes, the old friends from other schools, and the "freedom" for the week. BEWARE, for those kiddos that have health issues I would recommend having the teachers administer any medications. I had gone through the trouble of submitting doctor notes and medical authorization but did they even read and understand the letter? Nope. They will not follow doctor's orders and so last second I asked the teacher to do so and she was willing to accept that liability. Due to this particular medication the morning diet had to be exact otherwise it would affect its efficacy. The gentleman in the kitchen was friendly and willing to help, however, I believe he passed on this instruction to the kitchen staff that did not care. I packed breakfast for every day that my child was in attendance with everything labeled. They gave her a frozen waffle and / or no fruit. The water was like toilet water. The majority of the students returned came down with the flu/cold. Beware.
★★★★William JoyWalden West holds some of my fondest memories with my school friends, and is ultimately what led me to start more hiking. The trails were beautiful, and I especially enjoyed the night hike. My only complaint were the cabins, with creaky beds and an unsanitary interior. Now, I hike and explore nature across the country, and it is probably because of the experiences here. If I had the chance to come back here, I would definitely take it!
★★★★★Carlos BolanosI just found an old camera from my 2005-06 trip to walden west when I was in 6th grade. Enjoy! #2005-06 Seven Trees Elementary school. Contact me if you went the same year I can share more pics!
★★★★★Tiffany KodamaKnowledgeable, professional, fun, easy to talk to, intelligent staff. Well kept facilities, variety of activities for campers, beautiful setting. OMG- DELICIOUS food🍽🍛🍝