SUMMER CAMPS
Ages: 3–6
(around 8 campers per week)
China Camp & Lake Lagunitas
9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
$450/week
Optional Extended Day at China Camp!
(until 3PM for up to 4 campers)
$150/week
UPDATE: We just added new weeks in July!
9:30AM-2:30PM
6 campers max!
$500/week
“Children see the world the way nature intended: upside down, muddy, and full of wonder.”
Snails & Turkey Tails offers immersive summer nature camps in Marin County for children ages 3–6. Our play-based program weaves together outdoor exploration, forest and beach adventures, and hands-on learning to nurture curiosity, confidence, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Each day unfolds with a gentle rhythm of hiking, free play, creative projects, and imaginative discovery. Campers might spend the morning searching for crabs along the shoreline, building fairy homes in the forest, or mixing potions in a mud kitchen—no two days are ever the same.
CAMP DETAILS
Join us for week-long sessions, Monday through Friday, from June through August. Families are welcome to enroll in multiple weeks—each session offers new experiences, seasonal themes, and fresh adventures.
Our intentionally small group size and 1:5 adult-to-child ratio allow for meaningful connections, individualized support, and a calm, nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
OUR LOCATIONS
At China Camp, we explore a variety of beautiful spaces within the park, including the beach, Miwok Meadows, and Back Ranch Meadows Campground—each offering unique opportunities for play and discovery.
At Lake Lagunitas, we gather at the picnic area as our home base and set out on gentle hikes around the lake and through the surrounding woodland.
FULLY OUTDOORS, ALL DAY
Our camps are 100% outdoors, giving children the freedom to move, explore, and engage their senses in all kinds of weather. We believe that time in nature is not only joyful, but essential.
Come as you are, dress for adventure, and get ready for a summer filled with wonder, friendship, and play.
A TYPICAL DAY AT CAMP
Each day at Snails & Turkey Tails follows a gentle, predictable rhythm while leaving plenty of room for spontaneity and child-led exploration.
Arrival & Welcome Play
Campers arrive, settle in, and begin exploring simple invitations to play while we greet friends and ease into the day.
Morning Circle
We gather for songs, movement, and a brief introduction to the day’s adventures.
Exploration & Adventure
We head out to explore—hiking forest trails, visiting the beach, climbing, observing wildlife, and following the children’s natural curiosity.
Snack & Rest
We pause to enjoy a snack, rest our bodies, and connect as a group.
Creative Play & Projects
Back at our gathering spot, children engage in open-ended activities like mud kitchen play, nature crafts, building, or sensory exploration.
Lunch Time
We come together to share lunch, stories, and conversation.
Closing Circle
We end our day with a song, story, or reflection to create a calm and meaningful transition home.
Every day is a little different, shaped by the seasons, the landscape, and the interests of the children—but always rooted in connection, play, and time in nature.
Spots are limited—reserve your child’s place today!
Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program
AGES 13-16
2-week minimum commitment
The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program at Snails & Turkey Tails is designed for teens who enjoy working with young children and want hands-on experience in a nature-based early childhood setting. Rooted in a play-based, outdoor philosophy, this program gives participants the opportunity to build leadership skills while supporting campers ages 3–6 in a safe, nurturing environment.
CITs help guide daily camp activities such as nature walks, sensory play, storytelling, and creative exploration using natural materials. They learn how to model positive behavior, assist with group transitions, and gently support children’s social-emotional development. Emphasis is placed on patience, observation, and fostering a sense of wonder in the natural world.
Throughout the session, CITs receive mentorship and feedback from the lead teacher, with opportunities to reflect on their experiences and develop confidence in working with young children. They also gain practical skills in communication, teamwork, and basic risk awareness in outdoor settings.
This program is ideal for teens who are curious, responsible, and excited about nature, education, or future childcare roles. By the end of the experience, CITs leave with a stronger understanding of early childhood education and a meaningful connection to both the children they support and the natural environment around them.
CITs earn a stipend of $200/week. To apply for a summer 2026 CIT position, please complete our short intake form.
REGISTER FOR CAMP
TOOL STATION
SLACK LINE
TRAIL RIDES
SPECIAL GUESTS
HAMMOCK & TENT
MUD KITCHEN
BEACH DAYS
June 8-12 at Lake Lagunitas
June 15-19 at China Camp
June 22-26 at Lake Lagunitas
June 29-July 3 at China Camp
July 6-10 at China Camp
July 13-17 at China Camp
July 20-24 at China Camp
July 27-31at China Camp
August 3-7 at China Camp
August 10-14 at Lake Lagunitas
August 17-21 at China Camp
August 24-28 at Lake Lagunitas
"We’ve been incredibly impressed with Snails and Turkey Tails. It’s been such a gift to have our son in a camp set in such a stunning natural environment, guided by thoughtful, trustworthy, and genuinely caring camp leaders. We’re so grateful for the experience this program is giving him."