Climbing Camp

2025 SUMMER CAMPS HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED, but we can still offer custom programs for youth/young adults - CONTACT US HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO INQUIRE!

These 3 day rock climbing camps are designed to inspire growth, connection, and awe in young climbers while immersing them in the beauty of San Diego’s natural landscape over summer break. Located in Mission Gorge, our camps focus on outdoor rock climbing and a connection with nature. Campers will learn about outdoor climbing movement, technical skills, and the local environment.

All camps begin at 8:00am and end at 2:00pm at Mission Trails Regional Park Visitors Center.

All camps are exclusively and intentionally developed for students ages 11-14 & 14-17. Questions about which age group your climber should register for? Reach out to us via email at info@sdclimbingschool.org

Cost: $450 per climber

2025 summer Camp registration:

Summer Climbing Camp (Ages 11-14)

June 2 - 4

Summer Climbing Camp (Ages 14-17)

June 9 - 11

  • 3-Day Summer Camp

    With warm temperatures and longer days, summer is the perfect time for students to immerse themselves in the full outdoor climbing experience. The extended morning daylight hours offer plenty of opportunity for both skill development and exploration in the shade of Mission Gorge. This session coincides with summer break, providing an ideal time for community building, inspiration and outdoor adventure.

    Multiple sessions during the month of June

    Summer Camp Registration

  • 3-Day Seasonal Camp (Fall, Winter, Spring)

    Fall: Students will witness the landscape in Mission Gorge adapting to a drier season, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the area's seasonal transitions. Timed with Fall Break/3 Day Weekends or Thanksgiving Break.

    Winter: The cooler temperatures offer perfect "sending" conditions, allowing students to test and refine the skills they've developed during the camp. Timed with December/January Holidays and MLK Weekend.

    Spring: With the gorge bursting into bloom, spring offers a picturesque setting that enhances the climbing experience and deepens the connection to nature. Timed with Spring Break and Memorial Day Weekend.

    Interested? Contact Us

Climbing Camp Curriculum

  • Growth

    Every climber has their own journey.

    We meet them where they are - whether they’re just starting or looking to push their limits. Climbing Camp encourages personal growth by developing new skills, embracing physical and mental challenges, and stepping outside comfort zones in a supportive environment. We inspire climbers to find their own motivation, build confidence, and progress at their own pace.

  • Connection

    Climbing is more than just a sport.

    It’s about building relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Through guided self-reflection, journaling, and mindfulness activities, climbers deepen their connection to nature and their personal climbing goals. Group games and team initiatives strengthen bonds, and our guides serve as mentors, fostering a welcoming and supportive community that lasts beyond camp.

  • Awe

    Climbing brings moments of wonder.

    From noticing the flowers on the way up to the base of the crag to the exhilaration of reaching a summit, and the joy of overcoming challenges. We help climbers embrace these awe-inspiring experiences, from the grandeur of the natural world to the beauty of personal breakthroughs. Climbing Camp is about discovering what makes climbing special for each individual and carrying that sense of adventure beyond camp.

  • All Climbing Camps are led by professional guides who hold certifications from the American Mountain Guides Association, along with Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications. They also have extensive experience working with youth in climbing programs.

    Meet our Guides here!

  • Climbing specific:

    • Knots and hitches

    • Belay technique

    • Climbing movement

    • Rapelling

    • Rope management

    • Lead climbing skills practice (group dependent)


    Non climbing specific:

    • Group development

    • Communication

    • Goal setting

    • Local flora and fauna

    • Mindfulness and meditation

  • No prior climbing experience is necessary! Our Climbing Camp is designed to accommodate all skill levels. Whether a climber is a complete beginner or has been climbing for years, our professional guides will tailor the experience to their abilities and goals.

  • Climbing Camp includes professional instruction from certified guides, all necessary climbing gear (harness, helmet, shoes, and chalk bag), and a structured curriculum covering both technical climbing skills and personal development activities. We also provide a supportive and fun learning environment in an outdoor setting.

  • SDCS provides a harness, helmet, shoes, chalk bag for all participants.

    If the climber wants to bring their own gear, they can! SDCS Guides will check all gear before it is utilized. We will provide a more detailed daily packing list (including items like sunscreen, backpack, etc.) upon registration. 

  • Climbers need to bring their own food, water, and personal items such as sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Transportation to and from the climbing site is also not included. A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration.


  • For all Climbing Camps, the Guide to participant ratio will never exceed 1:4

  • Participants are responsible for bringing their own food for the duration of the camp. We recommend packing nutritious, high-energy meals and snacks that are easy to prepare and transport. Guides will ensure that there are snack and lunch breaks throughout the climbing day.

  • Our Climbing Camp is designed for youth participants, but if you're interested in climbing as a family, we offer private guided climbing sessions that can accommodate all ages. Let us know, and we’ll help set up a fun day for the whole family! See our Private Guiding offerings here.

  • Risk management is our top priority. All SDCS guides are AMGA-certified and trained in Wilderness First Responder and CPR. We use industry-standard climbing equipment, follow best practices for risk management, and maintain a strict guide-to-climber ratio of 1:4 to ensure close supervision and instruction.

  • Please review our detailed Cancellation Policy here.