Sapling is designed for participants 6-9 years old. Our tree climbing camps are based on arborist-style tree climbing and high ropes type activities. Kids are always harnessed in and belayed by an instructor while climbing. Kids are harnessed and belayed by instructors during climbs, with a “challenge by choice” approach.
Some of the activities that Sapling kids will do include a vertical climb into the canopy of a tree, a limbwalk (walking out on a branch balance-beam style), giant swings, swimming in some of the tamer areas of the James river, and even a whitewater rafting trip on the Class I-II section of the James! Life jackets are always worn in the river. Add in some creative outdoor games, knot tying, tree identification, and friendship, and you’ve got an awesome week of summer fun!
We have two Sapling camps – Maple Sapling and Birch Sapling. The two groups will be separate for the majority of the camp day, so if you have campers that would like to be together, be sure to sign them up for the same group. These programs are identical aside from a different set of campers and counselors.
Camp runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., with a flexible pickup window between 3:30 and 4:00. Camp is held in Forest Hill Park and the James River Park System.
6-9
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
For real-time capacities, please click “Register Now” to enter the enrollment portal.
June 3-7
June 10-14
June 17-21
June 24-28
July 1-5 *We run camp as normal on July 4th!
July 8-12
July 15-19
July 22-26
July 29 – Aug 2
Aug 5-9
For real-time capacities, please click “Register Now” to enter the enrollment portal.
June 3-7
June 10-14
June 17-21
June 24-28
July 1-5 *We run camp as normal on July 4th!
July 8-12
July 15-19
July 22-26
July 29 – Aug 2
Aug 5-9
A sliding scale is a tool to help increase access to experiences like summer camp, while acknowledging differences in financial resources. We ask for your active participation in deciding your contribution. We do not require proof of income but ask that you take a moment to thoughtfully reflect and choose the option that best represents your situation.
We want to give a huge thank you to those who were able to opt for our highest sliding scale tier last year; you helped 38 kids attend camp at a lower rate in 2023!
If you do not wish to pay in full upon registration, we offer 2 payment plans:
Donations: There is an option to donate to the scholarship fund during the registration process. All scholarship funds go directly towards camp spots for scholarship recipients. In 2023, the money raised through these donations funded 8 additional completely free camp spots! Thank you to everyone who donated!
Recipients: If none of the sliding scale choices are affordable to you, please email us at riversidecamps@gmail.com to ask about our scholarship program. In order to offer assistance without increasing barriers, we do not require proof of income, but ask that you only request scholarship funds if you’re not able to attend otherwise.
Sapling activities include arborist-style tree climbing, high ropes activities, giant tree swings, creative games, river exploration and even a rafting trip!
Age: 6-9 | |
Price: $495-$665 |
Oak activities include arborist-style tree climbing, high-ropes activities, giant tree swings, creative games, river exploration and whitewater rafting!
Age: 9-12 *Post Oak is now open to 8 yr olds too!* | |
Price: $495-$665 |
Earth Heroes camp activities include exploring Richmond's awesome forests and river, wildly fun hands-on science activities, nature-themed art and games, and natural outdoor fun!
Age: 6-9 | |
Price: $495-$665 |
Rappelling, rafting, and unique tree climbing elements are just some of the experiences you can expect from this camp!
Age: 12-16 | |
Price: $495-$665 |
River Shredders campers will have a one-of-a-kind experience learning to paddle a variety of different crafts on the James River, as well as learning about river ecology, hydrology, and river safety.
Age: 12-16 | |
Price: $495-$665 |