Berkeley Explorers Camp is recommended and designed for children entering kindergarten through the 5th grade.

For preschool age children, including those entering TK (transitional kindergarten) please see our preschool age program at newschoolberkeley.org

Berkeley Explorers Camp runs from 8:30am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. Please drop off no earlier than 8:30am and pick up promptly by 5:30pm.

Our home base is the New School of Berkeley, but Explorers Camp is a camp on the move! Each day we take BART and AC Transit to explore parks, museums, bowling alleys, and other Bay Area gems.

• A backpack

• A labeled water bottle

• A peanut-free lunch

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunscreen/hat for sunny days

We recommend packing light since campers carry their belongings with them on public transit.

Yes! We provide a morning and afternoon snack every day. Please pack a lunch for your child.

We use BART and AC Transit together as a group. Campers are given their own personal Clipper cards, and staff accompany them at all times. This not only gets us where we’re going but also teaches campers real-world navigation and independence skills.

Campers will visit:

• Bay Area museums (science, art, culture)

• Parks and outdoor spaces for play and exploration

• Fun outings like bowling and other group activities

• Hidden gems that highlight the Bay’s diversity

Each week is designed to balance play, creativity, and discovery.

Berkeley Explorers Camp has a 1:14 teacher to child ratio.

We maintain a low ratio of staff to campers to ensure safety and attention for each child, especially while traveling.

Families will receive a weekly schedule outlining destinations, along with updates if plans change due to weather or other factors.

Please list any allergies, medications, or medical needs on your registration form. Our staff is trained in first aid and CPR, and we will work with families to ensure all children are safe and supported

• Full refunds are available up to 14 days before the start of your camp week.

• Cancellations made within 7 days of the start date are not eligible for a cash refund, but may receive a transferable camp credit that can be used for a future session.

• No refunds or credits are available once a camp week has begun.

A transferable camp credit can be:

• Used toward a future Berkeley Explorers Camp session

Credits must be used within the same camp season unless otherwise approved.

We know life happens. If there is an unexpected illness or family emergency, please reach out as soon as possible. While we can’t guarantee refunds inside the final week, we’ll always do our best to work with families on a case-by-case basis.

In the unlikely event that Berkeley Explorers Camp must cancel a session, families will receive a full refund or full credit, based on their preference.