Best Outdoor & Nature Summer Camps in Portland, OR

Adventure · 19030 Pacific Ave, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136

Escape to Camp Magruder, a scenic haven nestled between the Pacific Ocean and Smith Lake. Here, in a supportive Christian community, your child will build confidence and forge lasting friendships. Campers are encouraged to explore their faith and develop new skills through activities like surfing, beach ecology, boating, and hiking. The camp's philosophy emphasizes personal growth over competition, with experienced counselors fostering a relaxed and nurturing atmosphere for learning and fun.

Outdoor Adventure · 59550 US-26, Sandy, OR 97055

Outdoor adventure program offering summer camps with hiking, biking, paddling, and wilderness skills.

Nature & Environment · Mt. Tabor Park: SE 60th Avenue and Salmon Street, Portland, OR 97215; Sellwood Park: SE 7th Avenue and Malden Street, Portland, OR

At Portland Parks Nature Day Camp, young adventurers will explore the wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities and outdoor exploration. Each week features a different theme, such as "Marvelous Mammals" or "Wonders of Water," where campers engage in experiments, games, and craft projects to learn about ecosystems and wildlife. This camp fosters a love for nature by encouraging curiosity and discovery in a fun and supportive environment, with programs like "Science Explorers" and "Ladybug Nature Walks" for the little ones.

Nature & Environment · Multiple locations across Portland

At Portland Parks & Recreation's summer camps, your child can embark on a new adventure every week. With a wide array of options, from sports and nature exploration to traditional camp fun, there's a perfect fit for every interest. Campers journey in small, tight-knit groups of 10-12, fostering close friendships and a sense of community. This structure allows for personalized attention and shared experiences, and you can even request to have your child grouped with a friend to double the fun.

Nature & Environment · Various school locations in Portland metro area, OR

Right At School (RAS) Camps offer a dynamic summer experience with ten themed Adventure Weeks, each packed with unique activities like building mini-golf courses and creating tie-dye sun hats. Campers engage in a variety of daily favorites, including arts and crafts, sports, and team-based challenges, fostering creativity, friendship, and confidence. With a focus on hands-on exploration and community building, RAS Camps provide a memorable and enriching summer for every child.

Horseback Riding · 19430 NW Reeder Rd, Portland, OR 97231

At Sauvie Island Stables, young riders will embark on a memorable equestrian adventure. The Intro to Horse Camp is perfect for beginners, offering a safe and fun environment to learn the fundamentals of horse care, grooming, and basic riding skills. Campers will build confidence and develop a love for horses through hands-on experiences and daily lessons, all while making new friends. This camp provides a solid foundation in horsemanship and creates lasting memories with their equine companions.

Farm / Agriculture · Various locations in Portland, OR area

At Everyone Outside's Farm & Forest Summer Camp, children connect with nature through hands-on activities at Fire Ring Farm and the Palmer-Taylor Preserve. Younger campers in the Sprouts program (ages 5-6) and older campers in the Seedlings program (ages 7-12) will explore the farm and forest, learn about agriculture, and develop a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. Teens can also develop leadership skills through the Mentor in Training program. This camp offers a unique opportunity for children to learn and grow in a supportive, nature-based environment.

Nature & Environment · 11321 S Terwilliger Blvd, Portland, OR 97219

At Friends of Tryon Creek's Forest Adventures Summer Camp, children will immerse themselves in the wonders of nature through hands-on, themed weeks. Campers will explore the forest, build solar-powered ovens, test water quality, and create nature-inspired art. With a focus on environmental stewardship and community, this camp offers a unique opportunity for kids to learn, play, and grow in an urban forest setting, all while being mentored by experienced environmental educators.

Horseback Riding · 16428 NW Rock Creek Rd, Portland, OR 97231

At Phoenix Farm, young horse lovers will spend their summer immersed in all things equestrian. Campers receive daily riding lessons and learn essential horsemanship skills, including horse care and farm life. The camp fosters teamwork, cooperation, and responsibility, offering a unique, hands-on experience. Depending on the week, campers may also get to observe professionals like farriers and veterinarians at work, making it a truly comprehensive and educational adventure.

Cycling · 10301 NE Glisan Street, Portland, OR 97220

At MTB Coach Robbie's Gateway Green Children's Summer Camp, young riders of all skill levels can build their confidence and mountain biking abilities. With a low 8:1 rider-to-coach ratio, campers receive personalized instruction from Coach Robbie and his team. The camp focuses on skill development through fun and engaging activities, with opportunities for more advanced riders to tackle black features and even get private airbag lessons. On Fridays, the adventure moves to Sandy Ridge or Timberline for a full day of trail riding.

Horseback Riding · 15770 NE Eilers Rd., Aurora, OR 97002

At French Hill Farm, young horse enthusiasts will experience the joy of riding and the responsibility of horse care in a safe and supportive setting. With a legacy of over 20 years, the camp offers a comprehensive program where children learn everything from grooming and tacking to daily riding lessons tailored to their skill level. Whether your child is a first-time rider in the Kindercamp or an experienced equestrian, they will develop their skills and build a special bond with their horse.

Cycling · Catlin Gabel School - East Campus, 8245 SW Barnes Rd, Portland, OR 97225

At Avid4 Adventure's Mountain Biking camp, your child will hit the trails and learn the thrill of mountain biking from seasoned instructors. Campers practice essential skills, learn basic bike maintenance, and explore local parks and trails. The program is customized to each camper's skill level, ensuring they build confidence and progress at their own pace in a supportive, grade-appropriate group. With an extended day, bikers get to explore even more terrain.

Nature & Environment · 5151 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97210

At Bird Alliance of Oregon's SWIFTS Nature Camp, your child will embark on a nature-based adventure, combining art, science, and outdoor exploration. With a holistic, student-directed approach, campers learn by doing, seeing, and touching, allowing their passions to guide their discovery of the natural world. Whether exploring the 172-acre Nature Sanctuary or venturing to new locations, each week-long camp fosters a culture of care and respect for the Earth, creating lifelong memories.

Nature & Environment · 5000 N Willamette Blvd, Portland, OR 97203

At Champ Camp's Great Outdoors program, your child will embark on an unforgettable summer adventure right on the University of Portland campus. Campers explore the natural world through hands-on activities, nature hikes in the iconic Forest Park, and exciting weekly field trips to places like the Oregon Zoo and OMSI. With a focus on outdoor exploration and making new friends, this camp offers a perfect blend of learning and fun in a beautiful setting overlooking the Willamette River.

Nature & Environment · 18880 SW Martinazzi Ave, Tualatin, OR 97062

At the City of Tualatin's summer camps, your child will enjoy a summer of fun, friendship, and exploration. Younger campers in the Explorers program will enjoy themed weeks with crafts, games, and a weekly splash pad visit. Older campers in the Voyagers program will take their adventures to the next level with exciting weekly field trips to destinations like the Oregon Zoo and Enchanted Forest. Both camps culminate in a special all-camp activity on Fridays, creating lasting memories for all.