Together in Adventure, Welcome to All!
The Lair of the Golden Bear is a camp for everyone. Nestled deep in the Sierra Nevada, it’s a place where student scientists explore from the Central Valley, young scholars sleep beneath the stars, generations of families come together, and lifelong friendships take root. Here, familiar faces are embraced, and we are committed to warmly welcoming new ones. From week-long summer camp to day-long field trips, we have a session for everyone—no matter your age, background, interests, or outdoor experience. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Lair!
Join us at the Lair
Summer Camp for All
Lair campers come from a variety of backgrounds, creating a diverse and welcoming community. While many join us from throughout California, we also welcome families from across the country and even overseas. Though a proud Cal tradition runs deep—many campers are alumni—you don’t have to be a Golden Bear to feel at home at the Lair. Everyone is welcome!
Accessibility for All
We offer mobility tents and ADA-compliant cabins for summer sessions, group rentals, and fall and winter weekend getaways, making the Lair a place where everyone can experience the magic of the Sierra.
Groups we have welcomed to the Lair:
● Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California
● CAL Women’s Basketball
● St. Andrew’s…
● The Achievement Award Program (TAAP) Scholars and Alumni Scholars Program staff
● Do we want to include a list?
Science Camp
Oski Science Camp at the Lair of the Golden Bear is an immersive, hands-on adventure where 5th and 6th graders’ curiosity meets the great outdoors. Designed for young explorers—especially those who may not often have the chance to connect with nature—this camp brings science to life through interactive experiments, guided field studies, and exciting teamwork. Collaboration is at the heart of Oski Science, where students work side by side, asking big questions, making discoveries, and building confidence in a supportive, inclusive environment. No matter their background or experience, every camper is welcomed as a scientist, an adventurer, and a valued member of our community.
Group Retreats at the Lair
An incoming cohort of The Achievement Award Program (TAAP) Scholars and Alumni Scholars Program staff traveled to Pinecrest for a weekend retreat at the Lair of the Golden Bear. The result—a weekend of bonding, hikes to the lake, sunshine, and of course, s’mores.
Photo by Charles Poloka
Adult Camps
Our adult camps offer a refreshing retreat for those looking to step away from daily routines and immerse themselves in nature, community, and personal growth. Club Lair: Sports, Wine, and Recreation Retreat is perfect for active adults seeking a dynamic experience, with professional sports instruction, art workshops, yoga, wine tastings, and more. Women’s Wellness provides a space for all women—whether they’re looking for an energizing adventure or a deeply restorative escape. No matter your pace or interests, our adult camps are designed to be inclusive, welcoming, and the perfect getaway to recharge, connect, and have fun.
Group Rentals and Private Events
Our group rentals are designed to welcome and accommodate everyone, making the Lair the perfect gathering place for all kinds of groups. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate retreat, team building outing, or wedding, our beautiful Sierra setting and flexible lodging options—including mobility tents and ADA-compliant cabins—ensure that everyone can feel comfortable and included. With a variety of activities, meeting spaces, and dining options, we create a warm, welcoming environment where groups of all backgrounds can connect, collaborate, and create lasting memories together.
Alec Ripp / Cal Women's Basketball
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