Best Outdoor & Nature Summer Camps in Portland, OR (2026)

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 · 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.

Adventure · 10300 SE Camp Namanu Rd, Sandy, OR 97055

At Camp Namanu, your child will immerse themselves in a classic summer camp experience on 552 acres of beautiful forest along the Sandy River. Since 1924, Camp Namanu has been fostering confident leaders and community stewards through outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, and archery. Campers are empowered to shape their own experience by choosing their activities each week, from arts and crafts to high ropes challenges. It's a place to unplug, connect with nature, and build lasting friendships.

Adventure · 22960 Highway 36, Cheshire, OR 97419

At Camp Lutherwood, children and teens explore their faith while enjoying a classic summer camp experience. Campers participate in a wide range of activities including hiking, swimming, archery, and even sleeping under the stars. The camp fosters personal growth and resilience through programs like Confirmation Camp and Leaders in Training. With a focus on community and adventure, Camp Lutherwood provides a supportive environment for kids to build lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories.

Nature & Environment · 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR 97221

At Hoyt Arboretum's Nature Day Camp, your child will immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. Through a partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation, this camp offers a unique opportunity for kids to explore a vast and beautiful arboretum. Campers will engage in hands-on nature activities, learn about local flora and fauna, and develop a deeper appreciation for the environment. After-care is available for working families.

Cycling · Various trailheads, Portland OR

At Cascade Bicycle Club's youth camps, your child will develop confidence and new skills on two wheels. Campers can choose from a variety of programs, including mountain biking, road cycling skills, and even practical bike commuting. Guided by the expertise of the Cascade Bicycle Club, young riders will experience the joy of cycling in a supportive and engaging environment, whether they're hitting the trails or learning to navigate the streets safely.

Nature & Environment · 9727 SW Terwilliger Blvd, Portland, OR 97219

At Champions' Champ Camp Great Outdoors, your child will embark on an unforgettable summer adventure right from the campus of Riverdale High School. Campers explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest through hands-on nature activities, with easy access to the forest trails of Tryon Creek State Natural Area and Marshall Park. Each week features exciting field trips to destinations like the Oregon Zoo and OMSI, fostering a fun, educational, and friendly environment where kids are always on the move and making lasting memories.

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.

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.

Nature & Environment · Multiple locations - Gales Creek, Forest Grove, Hillsboro OR

At WildRoots Collective, children are invited to explore the natural world through a variety of hands-on activities and adventures. With programs like Forest Ninjas, Wild Chefs, and Wilderness Warriors, campers develop real skills in archery, tracking, and survival. The camp's philosophy emphasizes inquiry-based learning and a deep respect for the environment, all within a supportive and inclusive community. Whether it's through art, science, or play, WildRoots provides a unique opportunity for kids to connect with nature and each other.

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

At Tryon Forest Adventures, campers connect with nature through hands-on science, hiking, and creative expression. As Portland's longest-running nature day camp, they foster a sense of community and respect for the forest. Children will explore the trails, learn about local flora and fauna, and build lasting friendships in a supportive, inclusive environment.

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.

Nature & Environment · 150 E Main Street, Hillsboro, OR 97123

Hillsboro Parks & Recreation offers a diverse range of summer camps to suit every child's interests. From exploring the natural world in Eco-Explorers to unleashing creativity in Summer Arts Camp, there's something for everyone. Campers can also make a splash at the Splash & Dash Day Camp, or develop athletic skills in a variety of sports camps. With a focus on fun, learning, and community, these camps provide a positive and inclusive environment for kids to grow and make new friends.

Farm / Agriculture · Boring, OR

At In a Child's Path Farm Preschool, your child will experience life on a working farm, developing a deep connection with nature and animals. Each day begins with hands-on farm chores like collecting eggs and feeding animals, fostering a sense of responsibility and self-confidence. Campers then explore weekly themes, from learning about the life cycle of chickens to making strawberry jam, and express their creativity through daily art activities. This child-centered program provides a safe and supportive environment for young children to learn, play, and grow.

Farm / Agriculture · 8015 SW Rodlun Rd., Gresham, OR 97080

Cedar Dell Forest Farm offers a unique summer camp experience, blending farm life with forest exploration. Younger children in the Nature Maker’s Camp will engage in nature-based art, care for Shetland sheep, and create projects using wool and natural dyes. Older youth in the Wild Balance Camp will find balance and creativity in the woods, making their own self-care items like lip balm and herbal teas. This camp provides a nurturing environment for kids to connect with nature, learn new skills, and create lasting memories.