Best Leadership camps in California.
Introduction
California’s leadership camps empower kids to step up, speak out, and lead with confidence. Through team challenges, service projects, and real-world problem-solving, campers develop the soft skills that last a lifetime. Parents love seeing their children return home more self-assured and motivated to make a difference.
Key takeaways
- Programs focus on communication, teamwork, and goal setting.
- Campers take part in group projects and leadership challenges.
- Many camps are hosted by universities or nonprofit organizations.
- Older teens may earn service hours or certificates for participation.
- Activities balance workshops with recreation to keep learning fun.
- Sessions run from weekend intensives to multi-week residential programs.
Explore other camp types in California
Browse different types of camps California
Parent’s guide to choosing the right camp
How to choose the right summer camp for your child
Traditional summer camps: the classic camp experience for kids
Academic enrichment camps: day vs overnight guide for first-time parents
Your guide to language immersion camps for kids
Your guide to the different types of summer camps for kids
Your guide to all-girls and all-boys summer camps: day vs overnight
FAQ
- What ages are best for leadership camps?
- Typically ages 12–17, with separate tracks for middle and high school students.
- Do campers receive a certificate?
- Many programs provide completion or leadership certificates.
- Are leadership camps competitive?
- Most emphasize collaboration and personal growth over competition.
Want to learn more about finding a camp near you?
Learn how to find the best camps near you and start planning an unforgettable summer.
Learn moreExplore the best camp locations
Alabama summer campsAlaska summer campsArizona summer campsArkansas summer campsCalifornia summer campsColorado summer campsConnecticut summer campsDelaware summer campsFlorida summer campsGeorgia summer campsHawaii summer campsIdaho summer campsIllinois summer campsIndiana summer campsIowa summer campsKansas summer campsKentucky summer campsLouisiana summer campsMaine summer campsMaryland summer campsMassachusetts summer campsMichigan summer campsMinnesota summer campsMississippi summer campsMissouri summer campsMontana summer campsNebraska summer campsNevada summer campsNew Hampshire summer campsNew Jersey summer campsNew Mexico summer campsNew York summer campsNorth Carolina summer campsNorth Dakota summer campsOhio summer campsOklahoma summer campsOregon summer campsPennsylvania summer campsRhode Island summer campsSouth Carolina summer campsSouth Dakota summer campsTennessee summer campsTexas summer campsUtah summer campsVermont summer campsVirginia summer campsWashington summer campsWest Virginia summer campsWisconsin summer campsWyoming summer camps