California
Rock climbing, surfing, hiking, whitewater rafting, community service, San Francisco exploration
The Ultimate California Experience
Picture yourself catching your first wave at Stinson Beach, then sharing stories around a campfire beneath some of the world’s oldest trees. This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s 12 days of hands-on adventure that shows you California like you’ve never seen it before.
From learning to navigate Yosemite’s granite cliffs to giving back through community service in Marin County, every day brings a new challenge and a fresh opportunity to surprise yourself with what you can do.
Length
12 DAYS
Download the Sample Itinerary
Curious what a Bold Earth California trip looks like? Download a sample itinerary to get a feel for the types of activities, destinations, and experiences your adventure may include. Every trip is a little different — that’s part of the magic — but this will give you a great sense of what’s in store!
What You'll
experience
Everything You Need for Adventure
Preparing for your child’s adventure is an exciting journey! We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to ensure a smooth experience. From paperwork to packing tips, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Included
- All meals and camping accommodations (11 nights)
- Professional instruction for all activities
- Technical gear and equipment
- Transportation during the trip
- Experienced Bold Earth trip leaders
- Entry fees to all parks and attractions
What to Bring
- Personal clothing and toiletries
- Sleeping bag and personal camping gear
- Travel to/from California (flights not included)
Accommodations
All campgrounds feature running water and bathroom facilities. Bold Earth provides comfortable 4-person tents.
Trip Preparation
Getting ready for your adventure is part of the excitement! Join a Bold Earth summer director in the spring for a webinar about preparing for our domestic trips. Your Trip Leader will call you two days prior to departure to help you feel confident and prepared for your Bold Earth experience.
You’ll receive a comprehensive preparation information that includes:
- Detailed packing lists specific to California’s varied climates
- Physical preparation recommendations to get the most out of your adventure
- Travel information and arrival/departure logistics
- What to expect on your first day and throughout the trip
- Tips for going tech-free and making the most of your unplugged experience
Our goal is to make sure you feel excited and ready to dive into 12 days of epic California adventure with your new Bold Earth crew!
...What Past Adventurers Say
“Bold Earth's values and core have stayed true to their mission of providing fun, safe summer adventure travel for teenagers all these years. I attribute this to the outstanding leadership with the director, Josh Goldbach and the stellar team he chooses each summer. Bold Earth has been a rite of passage for our family and I look forward to sending my grandchildren in the future.”
What Past Adventurers Say
My daughter loves to experience the independence of going out on an adventure, seeing new places, trying new activities, meeting new people. I love the confidence and maturity the experience builds while in a safe supportive environment.”
What Past Adventurers Say
“Before the camp, [my daughter] was an introvert—extremely shy and uninterested in exploring the outdoors. She was very apprehensive about going, having never experienced camping, hiking, rafting, or surfing, and being without the comfort of a long hot shower whenever she wanted. She was also convinced that she wouldn’t be able to make friends since she knew no one. The biggest challenge for us was convincing her that she could have a lot of fun without her cell phone. Not having access to it for two weeks was a huge accomplishment, and it taught her that she could enjoy life even more by connecting with those around her. This experience significantly boosted her self-confidence and independence, and now [she] is eagerly looking forward to her next adventure next summer.”
FAQS
Find answers to your questions about our adventure programs and get ready for an amazing experience!
What's the physical fitness requirement?
You should be comfortable with moderate physical activity like hiking 3-5 miles and being active for most of the day. No prior experience with surfing, climbing, or rafting required!
What about the weather?
California summers are generally warm and dry, though coastal areas can be cool and foggy in the mornings. You’ll have a detailed packing list with weather-specific recommendations.
How challenging is the rock climbing?
All climbing instruction starts with basics on easy routes. You’ll learn to belay and climb at your own pace with professional leaders and safety equipment.
What are the arrival and departure windows for this trip?
For all California trips, students will fly into and out of San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in San Francisco, California. They will need to arrive at SFO between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. on the first day of their trip, and depart SFO between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the last day of their trip.
Our trip leaders will be awaiting each of our students’ arrivals in the San Francisco airport. As per airline regulations, we greet every student who flies as an unaccompanied minor at the gate. For all other non-UM students, please follow your group off the plane down to baggage claim, where one or both of our trip leaders will be waiting. Students will call home as soon as they meet with our group and gather their baggage.
Please do not book flights until your child has been officially accepted and enrolled on their California trip and you’ve received the detailed travel guidelines.
Explore More Adventures
Looking for longer or gap programs? Check out our sister program, ARCC Programs
time to be bold
Your California Adventure Awaits
We’re excited to welcome you into the Bold Earth community! Questions about California? Call us at +1 828-435-3971 or email info@boldearth.com. You can also join one of our Info Sessions to learn more about what makes our adventures special.
Ready to apply? Complete our enrollment form to secure your spot on this incredible California adventure.
