Free Summer Camp in Sacramento for 6th & 7th Graders: YELC
Free summer camp in Sacramento does exist! It’s no secret that summer camp is a rising cost for families, but there is a gem of a summer camp in Rancho Cordova that offers a completely free summer camp to students entering 6th & 7th grade.
Students can attend the Youth Environmental Leadership Camp, also referred to as YELC, through Sacramento Splash. While this summer camp is free, applications are required for potential campers. There are also a few program participation requirements.
Keep reading to learn about how campers can attend one of the best summer camps in Sacramento for free!
What is YELC Camp?
The Youth Environmental Leadership Camp offers opportunities for students entering 6th or 7th grade to attend a week-long summer camp at no cost. During this summer program, campers will learn about environmental impacts, explore impactful careers, and participate in engaging activities.
Campers will take daily field trips to participate in guided tours of local sites, collect data, and utilize the tools gained from scientists and engineers.
The following topics will be covered throughout camp:
- Climate Change / Air Quality
- Energy & Transportation
- Water
- Food Production / Consumption / Waste Management
- Land Use / Natural Habitats
- Project Management
To attend, campers must meet specific participation requirements and submit an application to participate in camp.
Unique Program Requirements
Although YELC is free, campers must complete specific program requirements as part of the program. These program requirements ensure campers leave a lasting impact on their communities.
1. Participate in 2 Volunteer Events
Campers must volunteer with a minimum of two environmentally-focused partner organizations. These volunteer opportunities could include tree plantings and creek cleanups. The volunteer opportunity should involve an environmental impact.
Potential campers who apply to YELC and have completed one of two volunteer events when the camp application opens will be given preference. However, all potential campers are encouraged to apply, even if they have not yet completed the volunteer event.
2. Fundraising Campaign
Campers will be responsible for conducting a small personal fundraising campaign. They will need to raise a minimum of $40 for an organization. The fundraising campaign cannot be for Sacramento Splash.
3. End-of-Year Presentations
To wrap up the program, campers will showcase brief presentations to their parents and fellow campers about their experience in early December.
Sacramento Splash will guide campers on the program requirements.
While most camps typically last for a one-week duration to pass the time during the summer when school is not in session, YELC in Sacramento Splash allows students to participate in the community all year. This unique camp experience empowers campers to get involved and have a direct impact on their local community while building lifelong skills.
How Do You Apply?
To apply to YELC, campers must complete the application together with parents or guardians. Applications are due by March 1, 2026.
Submit your application by clicking here.
Who Can Apply?
Any students in the Sacramento area entering 6th or 7th grade are welcome to apply to YELC! Students in Rancho Cordova are particularly encouraged to apply.
Campers must be first-time participants as the program does not accept returning campers.
When Does Camp Occur?
In 2026, YELC takes place on the following dates:
- June 1-5
- June 8-12
- June 15-19
- June 22-26
Camp occurs for one week at a time, Monday through Friday, from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
Where Does Camp Take Place?
Each day, camp begins and ends at Sacramento Splash, located at 4426 Excelsior Road, in Mather, CA. While camp begins and ends at this location, campers take daily field trips to various Sacramento area sites. These may include Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Nimbus Fish Hatchery, and the Cosumnes River Preserve.
Sacramento Splash provides transportation for all campers for off-site field trips.
Is This Really Free?
Yes, it is! It really seems too good to be true, but Sacramento Splash and its partners provide this incredible hands-on summer camp experience to Sacramento area students entirely free.
YELC is truly an incredible opportunity for families to not only have their students attend a terrific summer camp at no cost, but for campers to gain essential skills, explore various science and environmental careers, and leave a profound impact on their communities.
All photos provided courtesy of Sacramento Splash
