North Bay Summer Guide 2024

2024 NO R TH BAY

Factors to consider before choosing a summer camp

Adults often look back fondly on their childhood experiences at summer camp. Camps can provide the opportunity to form lifelong friendships and discover rewarding hobbies that can enrich campers’ lives for decades to come. Choosing a summer camp is no small task, as the options at families’ disposal range from overnight camps to weekday afternoon camps to camps that specialize in certain programs, such as music or dance. Cost also is likely to factor into families’ decisions, as the American Camp Association notes that cost can vary greatly depending on which camp families choose. For example, the ACA notes that the average daily fee at a resident camp is $85, while the same fee at a day camp is $43.

When looking for a summer camp for kids, families should make the decision together. Kids should be involved in the selection process, as they’re more likely to have an enjoyable camp experience if they had a say in where they will be spending their summers. The following are some factors families should consider as they look for summer camps, courtesy of the ACA.

Kids’ interests

The ACA urges parents to consider the child’s interests and personality before choosing a summer camp. Parents might want their children to attend the same summer camp they visited as youngsters, but each child is different. Just because mom and dad liked a particular camp does not mean their children will. The ACA notes that summer camps should align with children’s interests and maturity level.

Locale

Locale may only be a consideration for families considering overnight camps. Kids will likely be familiar with the locations of local

day camps, but overnight camps might be set in mountain ranges, near the ocean or environments less familiar to youngsters. Kids who love the ocean might benefit from oceanfront camps that focus on marine biology, boating or other activities involving the water. In the same vein, youngsters who like camping and hiking might be more likely to embrace camps located in mountainous regions.

Session length

Camps may last as little as one week or up to a couple of months. Session length should be considered by families looking at

both local day camps and overnight resident camps. Parents who want their children to enjoy a largely schedule-free summer might not want to commit their children to lengthy camp sessions, even if those sessions are close to home. If parents think their children can benefit from the same structure they’re accustomed to during the school year, then an overnight camp that stretches for several weeks might be what they’re looking for. Summer camps give kids a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. Choosing the right camp is an important decision that parents and kids should make together.

WeEkly Swim LesSons

am & PM swim lesSons in ou r 90 degreE poOl

Ages 3 months and u p

Grou p and Private LesSons are available

AlL lesSons are 30 mins.

Prior registration is req u ire d

Weekly themed camps for ages 5-9 years Shark week, Time Travelers, Mermaids & Pirates, and more! Fill their summer with crafts, games, outdoor activities & swimming!

SuMMER Swim Camps Water

Birthday Parties

Celebrate with a party at th e poOl! $235 party feE inclu de entry for 16 guests and u se of th e comMu nity roOm. Ages 12 & Up, learn the competitive game of water polo in our competition pool. Starting at age 5 kids learn the skill and rules of the game of water polo in our

swim team

A uSA Swimming competitive team offering high quality professional coaching and technique instruction. St age 7

Top 10 Hikes in Sonoma County

Sonoma County’s best hikes, with hallmark views of vineyards, oak woodlands and stunning coastal bluffs.

Kortum Trail: An absolute classic along the Sonoma coast, winding along the bluff s and headlands from Blind Beach to Wright’s Beach, with sightlines all the way to Point Reyes on the clearest days. Where: Park near the end of Goat Rock Road, just south of Jenner and the mouth of the Russian River. Details: 4 miles one-way to Wright’s Beach. Make an out-and-back hike of any length you like. Easy and mostly flat. Sonoma Coast State Park, parks.ca.gov.

Sea to Sky Trail: This unforgettable route takes a serious commitment, as hikers wind through coastal grasslands, oaks, and redwoods up to 360-degree views at the top of Pole Mountain, the highest peak along the Sonoma Coast. The trail debuted in 2018, and our editors make a point to hike it once a year, often on New Year’s Day. Where: Start at the parking area in the Jenner Headlands Preserve, along Highway 1 just north of Jenner. Details: 15.2 miles round trip with 3,000 feet of climbing. Strenuous uphill; gentle coming back. Sonoma Land Trust, sonomalandtrust. org, Wildlands Conservancy, wildlandsconservancy.org.

Mount Saint Helena Summit Trail: A shady first mile gives way to miles along a sunny fi re road to reach the highest peak in Sonoma County, at 4,342 feet. Where: Start on the other side of the ridgeline in Napa, at Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. The trail crosses the county line along the way. Details: 9.3 miles round trip with 2,000 feet of climbing. Strenuous uphill, gentle coming back. Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, parks.ca.gov. Salt Point Trail: The other world-class hike along the Sonoma Coast, along with the Kortum Trail. Views for miles and intricate sandstone rock formations. Winter storms off er a spectacle, with waves crashing against

the bluff s below and shooting dozens of feet in the air. Where: Start at the parking lot along Highway 1 at Gerstle Cove, 6 miles north of Fort Ross. Details: 3.2 miles round trip north to Stump Beach and back, easy and mostly flat. Salt Point State Park, parks.ca.gov.

Sonoma Overlook Trail: In the town of Sonoma, a short hike beginning at the historic cemetery and switchbacking through meadows and scrub oaks to views of the town and the Mayacamas. The trail begins just a few blocks off the Plaza, but it feels like a world apart. Where: Start at the parking lot for Mountain Cemetery at the end of First St. West. Details: 3 miles round trip. Easy to moderate. overlookmontini.org.

Panorama Trail: Petaluma’s Helen Putnam Regional Park is a treasure, and this hike is its jewel, with wide expansive vistas of rolling hills and pockets of live oaks. Especially stunning in March when the hills are green. Where: Start at the parking lot for Helen Putnam Regional Park, along Chileno Valley Road just outside Petaluma via Western Ave. Details: Plenty of loop options and side trails for hikes of diff erent lengths. Moderate. Helen Putnam Regional Park, parks. sonomacounty.ca.gov.

North Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail to Jack London State Park: This hike takes some planning, as it’s an ambitious affair connecting newer trails in the North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park & Preserve to Jack London State Park. Classic Sonoma oak woodlands and grassy hills with views for miles, including from the shoulder of Sonoma Mountain. At the finish, hike past vineyards to tour author Jack London’s home and the ruins of his Wolf House. Where: Start at the North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park & Preserve parking lot on Sonoma Mountain Road. Details: 8 miles one way, moderate to strenuous. It’s 4 miles

from the start to the border of Jack London State Historic Park, then another 4 miles to the finish at the entrance to Jack London via the Mountain Trail. Print out maps in advance, and make plans to get a ride back to the start, or take two cars to shuttle back and forth. North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park & Preserve, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov.

Bummer Peak Trail:  At Lake Sonoma, past the Warm Springs Dam in the Rockpile region, this trail meanders through oaks, madrones, and grasslands to top out at a 1,100-foot knoll with stunning overlooks of the lake. This hike is best in spring.  Where:  Pick up a map at the Lake Sonoma visitor center in Geyserville, then head west over the bridge to Rockpile Road and park at the Little Flat parking area on the right.  Details:  4.7 miles round trip. Moderate. US Army Corps of Engineers, spn.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Lake-Sonoma.

Vista Trail Loop: In Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, this route skirts the edge of the Mayacamas Mountains that separate Sonoma from Napa. Much of the route burned in 2017, off ering a portrait of nature’s resilience. The trail is especially beautiful in the early morning or close to sunset. For a more strenuous hike, add on the loop to the summit of Bald Mountain and return to the start via the Grey Pine Trail. Where: Start in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood, at the end of Adobe Canyon Road. Details: 4.1 miles round trip, moderate. sugarloafpark.org.

Two other all-star Sonoma hikes are the loop through historic redwood groves in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve near Guerneville and the trail to Gunsight Rock in Sonoma Valley’s Hood Mountain Regional Park. Both were closed due to wildfires but reopened in 2021.

Find Your Sense of Wonder. Find Your Y Camp. At Y camp, kids can enjoy a summer full of fun, friends and new adventures while they develop skills, confidence and a greater sense of purpose. Whether your kids like games, crafts, science, outdoors or all of the above, the Sonoma County Family YMCA’s camps have something for everyone.

The YMCA was a pioneer in camping and creating the traditional day camps we know today. In 1867, a YMCA youth director took a group of boys to a lake in New York and created a summer encampment. The first official YMCA day camp was founded in 1885, and the nation’s first permanent residential camp was founded by a YMCA volunteer on the shores of Lake Champlain in 1908. By 1914, there were more than 242 YMCA resident camps serving more than a quarter million campers each year.

Today, YMCAs operate more than 1,850 day camps across the country and locally the Sonoma County Family YMCA offers a variety of camp experiences for ages 6-15 - day camps, sports camps, counselor in training program and a resident camp at Camp Ravencliff.

The Sonoma County Family Y has been providing enriching, quality summer camps in our community since 1954 and meet the all the highest standards set for Camps.

Research shows that without access to out-of-school physical and learning activities, kids fall behind academically and gain weight twice as fast during summer than the school year. Y camp provides a welcoming, inclusive environment for all! From games and sports to arts and crafts to field trips and outdoor adventures to science and technology, a Y camp experience offers kids the chance to learn new things and enjoy new adventure each and every day!

Seven reasons why children and teens should attend Y Camp:

ADVENTURE: camp is all about a wide variety of new experiences and exploring the outdoors. Y camps have a new adventure for every child and teen.

CAMP IS JUST PLAIN FUN: Beat the summer doldrums and boredom with a wide selection of activities and interests for kids of all ages. Y camps offer fun, stimulating activities that engage the body and mind, and also help children and teens learn the importance of nutrition to help build lifelong healthy habits.

PERSONAL GROWTH: while in the welcoming environment of camp, kids have a chance to learn new skills, and develop confidence, gain new perspective and independence by taking on new responsibilities and challenges. Summer camp offers cognitive learning and social-emotional development opportunities for achievement.

FRIENDSHIPS: amidst the fun of camp games, songs, arts and crafts, swimming, field trips - campers meet new friends and create lasting bonds.

MEMORIES: summer camp is an unforgettable experience that will give each camper memories (and camp traditions) that will help shape them and last a lifetime.

OUR LEADERS: our staff are caring, competent, and experienced. Our training includes camp safety, activity planning, character development, conflict resolution, CPR, First Aid, and more, making your child’s experience both safe and fun. As a leading nonprofit committed to nurturing the potential of youth, the Y provides youth an enriching, safe experience with caring and competent staff who model positive values that help build character.

One camp parent shared – “My son was very anxious about attending camp, and after the first day he informed us that he “Loves it!” Now, when I wake him up in the morning, he’ll ask if it’s a camp day. When I tell him it is, there’s a loud “yes!” with a fist pump. Thank you for making camp a good place to be.”- Y Camp Parent

This summer kids can experience adventure, friendship & belonging through one of the following camp opportunities:

• Day Camp for ages 6-12 at 6 different locations

• Sports Camp for ages 6-12 at 2 different locations

• Counselor in Training Leadership program for 13-15 year olds

• Resident Camp at Camp Ravencliff for 4th -9th graders

Find your Sense of Wonder. Find Your Fun. Find Your Y Camp Today at or call 707-545-9622 x3133 for more information or email ycampinfo@scfymca.org.

Financial assistance is available for families who need the support to ensure that all kids in our community can have enriching summer experiences. Camps are filling up fast, so reserve your spot today!

www.scfymca.org/summer-camp

How to find the right fit for summer camp

Many adults fondly recall their days at summer camp. The increase in households with two working parents has made it more important than ever to find a camp to accommodate youngsters who need to remain engaged and entertained throughout over summer vacation. That reality has led to more summer camp options, but it’s not always so easy finding one that’s the right fit for a child.

No two children are the same and kids change quite a bit as they grow up. So a camp that worked for an older child or even one that accommodated a younger camper may not make the perfect fit this summer. With that in mind, parents can consider these tips to find the right summer camp for their children.

• Ask around. Even if no two campers are the same, it can benefit parents to ask around when shopping for a summer camp. Summer camp spots are limited and it’s not uncommon for competition for available spaces to develop, which can make it more difficult to gather information. However, ask neighbors whose children have outgrown summer camp if there’s one they might recommend (or would not recommend).

• Pursue a package deal. Though package deals might not result in lower rates, approaching a camp with the parents of your child’s friend or friends may work in your favor. Kids undoubtedly will be more excited about camp if their friends will be there as well. Camp officials may see these quasi-package deals as beneficial and a quick and easy way to fill spots.

• Ask kids how they want to spend summer. Specialized camps run the gamut from sports camps focusing on a particular sport to general outdoor recreation camps to camps that cater to young musicians. More general camps offer a wide range of activities throughout the summer, and that might appeal to children less interested in specialized camps. Ask youngsters for their input before

making a final decision. Involve kids in the search by showing them websites of prospective camps and asking them what they think of each one. If attending an in-person consultation, bring kids along so they can form their own impression.

• Make sure the camp suits your schedule. Kids preferences are not the only opinions to consider. In households with two working parents, moms and dads must find a camp that aligns with their work schedule. Many camps offer half-day sessions and/or full-day sessions, but some offer just one or the other. If parents need full-day sessions, they might need to begin their search early to ensure they can secure a spot before they fill up.

• Identify what you can afford. Camp costs vary significantly, so parents should identify how much they can afford before they begin their search. Doing so may eliminate various camps right off the bat, saving parents precious time as they try to find a camp for their children before spots fill up. Many towns offer local camps at schools, and these may be an affordable option. Parents also should know that many camps allow them to pick certain weeks or days of the week a child will attend rather than insisting kids attend camp for the duration of the summer. Summer camp season is right around the corner. Parents and children can work together to identify a camp that will ensure this summer is filled with fun.

12 Spots Where You Can Camp by the Beach in Sonoma, Mendocino and Marin

• Doran Beach Campground, Bodega Bay: Bordered by the breezy Bodega Harbor, Doran Regional Park offers 120 campsites year round and plenty of amenities, including potable water and restrooms with electrical outlets and coin-operated showers. Campground reservations are required. 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3540.

• Wright’s Beach Campground, Bodega Bay: This sandy beach campground at the Sonoma Coast State Park offers gorgeous ocean and sunset views. There’s plenty of fun outdoor activities here, including whale and bird watching, hang gliding and hiking the Kortum Trail to other nearby beaches. Campsites include restrooms, picnic tables, food lockers and a fire ring. There are no potable water filling areas; fill up water tanks at Bodega Dunes. Sonoma Coast State Park, 7095 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3483.

• Bodega Dunes Campground, Bodega Bay: Within walking distance of beaches and the town of Bodega Bay, this year-round campground in the Bodega Harbor is a popular place for whale watching and horseback riding. The rough waters along this stretch on the coast prohibit wading and swimming. Campsites include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, food lockers and a fire ring. 2485 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3483.

• Ocean Cove Campground, Jenner: Just north of Fort Ross in the nook of a rocky cove is Ocean Cove Store and Campground, with 20 acres of campsites right on the Pacific Ocean. Amenities include hot showers, fire pits, picnic tables, chemical toilets and a boat ramp. With fishing, scuba diving, and nearby golf and hiking trails, this campground is a great place to relax or enjoy summer activities. 23150 Coast Highway 1, Jenner, 707-847-3422.

• Gualala Point Campground, Mendocino County: The Gualala Point Regional Park’s small campground is nestled

along the Gualala River in a grove of redwoods. Various trails connect to the beach and coastal bluffs, and the area is a great place to go picnicking or whale watching. The park features flush toilets, electrical outlets and a coin-operated shower. Campground reservations are required. 42401 Highway 1, Gualala, 707-785-2377.

• Caspar Beach, Mendocino County: In the small coastal town of Caspar lies the campground of Caspar Headlands State Beach, located in a deep, sandy cove and bustling with kite flyers, boogie boarders and fishermen. The tent sites, sheltered by near 100-foot canyon cliffs, offer showers, picnic tables and fire rings, and full hookups are available for RVs. 4441 Point Cabrillo Drive, Caspar, 707-964-3306.

• Caspar Beach RV Park and Campground: Located just north of Caspar Headlands State Beach, this RV park and campground features newly remodeled facilities and a variety of amenities, including coin-operated showers, a game room, wifi and full hook-ups. In addition to RV sites and tent sites, there are also cute and rustic cabins (for two or families). 14441 Point Cabrillo Drive, Mendocino, 707-964-3306

• Westport Beach RV Park and Campground, Mendocino County: Located some 17 miles north of Fort Bragg, just off Shoreline Highway 1, this 50-acre privately-owned campground offers beachside camping in the sand, on grassy sites and along a creek. Campers can wander along the private sandy beach, wade, surf, boogie board and play frisbee, or take advantage of seasonal fishing and abalone diving. Accommodations include 75 full hook-up RV sites, 50 tent sites and five group sites. 37700 North Highway 1, Westport, 707-964-2964.

• Anchor Bay Campground, Mendocino County: This private, six-acre beach

campground, stretched along a narrow gulch lined with ferns, redwoods and other native coastal plants, offers serene campsites on the beach complete with fire pits, picnic tables and water hookups. Popular beach activities here include fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, surfing or simply watching the waves lap the shore. 35400 South Highway 1, Gualala, 707884-4222.

• Lawson’s Landing, Marin County: This family-owned and operated fishing and boating resort and campground at the mouth of Tomales Bay has been open since 1957. Since the late ‘50s, generations of families have come to stay here, enjoying activities like clamming, boating and hiking. The campground is open year round. 137 Marine View Drive, Dillon Beach, 707-8782443.

• Wildcat Camp, Marin County: This seaside campground is an ideal location for backpackers. The eight open meadow campsites, located on a bluff with stunning views of the ocean, have access to several gorgeous hiking trails, including a two-mile round-trip walk to the Alamere Falls. Reserve online, by calling 877-444-6777 or walking into the Bear Valley Visitor Center during normal hours of operation. 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station.

• Kirby Cove Campground, Marin County: Located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge at Battery Kirby, this 400-acre campground offers spectacular views of the iconic bridge and northern San Francisco. Visitors like to explore the area by foot or bike, picnicking and taking in the views. The historic army battery, in use from 1898 to 1934, is also worth checking out. The Point Bonita Lighthouse and Nike Missile Site SF-88 are close by. There are five overnight camping sites. 948 Fort Barry, Sausalito, 415331-1540.

Sonoma Community Center SUMMER ART CAMPS

The Sonoma Community Center welcomes campers ages 7 to 14 years to join us at one or many of our fifteen Summer Ar t Camps Get creative and messy in crafts and clay classes Learn kitchen skills and eat tasty treats The Center offers camps in giant puppetr y, printmaking, fiber ar ts, stop motion animation, car tooning, and even a “Makers Camp” where students will create a carnival ride out of bicycles and other recycled par ts!

Camps being offered this year are Bilingual Ar t, Cooking, & Kid Scoop News (7-11 yrs); Cardboard Crafts (7-11 yrs); Car toon Camp (12+); Animation & Stop Motion (10-14 yrs); Giant Puppets (7-11 yrs); Makers Camp (11+); Clay, Ar t, & Cooking (7-11 yrs); Clay & Ar t (7-11 yrs); Machine Sewing & Creative

(10-13 yrs); Textiles (10-13 yrs); Queer Ar t Self-Expression (13-17 yrs); Printmaking (9+); and Plein Air (7+)

Cartoon Camp (June 17-24) Students will learn how to create comics and find their voices from New Yorker car toonist Hilar y Campbell! This one week camp will explore the impor tance of self- expression through comics and car toons Students will have the oppor tunity to learn the basics of car tooning (from single panel to long form), how to find your humor through writing, and ultimately create their first zine

Giant Puppet Camp (June 24-28) An adventure in creativity myth creation collaboration and celebration! Movement exploration, community-building games, and puppeteering practice will help students’ puppets come to life

Makers Camp (July 8-12) Explore basic engineering principles, ar t, and fabrication Using human-powered “steam” campers will create a carnival ride from bic ycles, cardboard, paint, sails made of sheets, and more!

Queer Art Self-Expression (July 22-26) In par tnership with Positive Images, this camp will explore the histor y of LGBTQIA+ influence in ar t while exploring a variety of ar t forms such as painting, sculpture fiber ar ts and more! The camp is led by local LGBTQIA+ ar tists

All Things Textile (July 22-26) Create beautifu objects with sheep’s wool roving and felt Wool roving can be manipulated into different shapes with water or dr y felted with needles Learn to needle felt smal plants, animals and hear ts Wet felt beads and learn to wet felt a wooly landscape Students will also create a succulent garden with felt fabric as well Macrame and dyeing will be explored

Plein Air (July 29-Aug 2) Take a tour of Sonoma to draw and paint Learn about the natural beauty all around us while developing skills as a budding ar tist Lessons will include composition, color, and perspective Sponsored by the Sonoma Plein

Needlework

Summer camp options abound

Summer camp season will be here before parents know it. While children anxiously await the last day of school, adults know that it can be challenging to keep kids occupied and mentally stimulated when they aren’t in the classroom. Although it may be alright to enjoy a few days lounging around and playing video games, too much sedentary behavior is not good for anyone, even children. Families turn to summer camp to provide children with activities to occupy their time when school is not in session. Camps catering to a variety of interests are open to youngsters, so there’s likely one out there to excite every child. Each year, more than 25 million children and adults take part in the camp experience, says the American Camp Association. Summer camp gives kids a chance to spread their wings and enjoy new adventures. When seeking camps, families can consider interests, proximity, cost, and other variables. Here are some of the different types of camps families can consider.

Day camp

Day camps are a popular choice. Day camps tend to be general recreation camps that offer an array of activities. Campers are dropped off (or bussed) in the morning and arrive home early evening. These camps are readily accessible and run by various organizations. Some camps enable you to pay by the week, rather than committing to an entire season.

Sleep-away camp

Like the name implies sleep-away camp hosts campers overnight, typically for several weeks. This may be children’s first extended time away from home, and there’s bound to be a few nerves that spring up. Round-the-clock activities and chances to bond with their peers can help kids overcome fears of being away from home.

Academic camp

Academic camps focus their attention on various subjects, putting like-minded children

together. Academic summer programs ensure children’s brains stay active, helping students avoid that dreaded “summer slide”. Some of these camps mimic a school day so they are familiar to kids. Academic focus may vary from general academia to specific subjects like STEM to astronomy to the arts.

Scout camp

Boys and girls participating in scouting programs often have the option to attend summer camp. During camp kids will have an opportunity to earn badges and advance their rank. Many scout districts have relationships with a specific scout campsite where troops from all over live and advance together for a

week or so during the summer.

Fitness and sports camps

Fitness-minded campers or those who play particular sports can investigate camps that focus on fitness and sports performance. These may be more rigorous than other types of camps since they involve lots of physical activity. Wilderness preparation camp is another type of camp that may fit into this category. It will highlight survival training and help mold active hikers and campers. Summer camp options abound. It’s only a matter of identifying a path for children and then seeking a camp that offers the desired program.

JUNE 17-20 / JUNE 24-27 / JULY 8-11

BOYS AND GIRLS

K-2ND = 9AM-12PM

3RD-8TH = 9AM-3PM

CAMP PRICE = $225

PRIORITY REGISTRATION = $195

BASKETBALL CAMP IN ROHNERT PARK

RANCHO COTATE HS / JULY 8-11

3RD-8TH = 9AM-3PM

$195 BEFORE 5/15 ($225 AFTER) YOUTH CAMPS IN NAPA & VALLEJO

Best Summer Ever: Things to Do in the North Bay

• Ride the River: Floating the Russian River is a summertime must, but how best to approach a float trip is a matter of some debate. Our best bet? Kicking the day off at Forestville’s Steelhead Beach and ending at Sunset Beach. While the 2-mile stretch doesn’t look like much on a map, at the river’s sluggish summertime pace, the route takes a good four hours. To avoid full parking lots or the need to leave a car at each beach, take the Regional Parks River Shuttle, which costs $5 for an all-day shuttle pass and travels from Santa Rosa to Forestville. Don’t forget the sunscreen, and be sure to bring enough liquids to stay hydrated. 9000 River Road, Forestville, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov

• Celebrate the 4th: The Summer at the Green concert series opens with a bang on July 4 as the Santa Rosa Symphony joins forces with the Transcendence Theatre Company for an evening of sassy show tunes and patriotic classics. The popular Independence Day event at the Green Music Center offers an array of old-fashioned family fun, including kids’ activities, picnicking on the lawn and a fireworks spectacular at dusk. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park, 707-664-4246, gmc.sonoma.edu

• Feast at the Fair: Whether you’re here to show a goat, ride the Ferris wheel, eat a corndog, or some combination of all three, the Sonoma County Fair is part of every summer. There’s no shortage of ridiculously fattening food options, roller coaster adventures, animal-petting opportunities and fist-pumping music — but nothing beats finding a comfortable spot in the shade and watching the fairgoers stroll by. August 1-11. Sonoma County Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, sonomacountyfair.com

• Share in Some Squeezebox Love: Every summer, fans of the squeezebox pile into La Plaza Park to play their hearts out at the Cotati Accordion Festival. The event commemorates the late Jim Boggio, who played with Polka King Frank Yankovic for years. Students, amateurs and pros are all as welcome as the many curious passersby. The event ends with everyone joining in for a group round of “Lady of Spain.” Aug. 16-18, tickets $19-$32, free for children 15 and under when accompanied by a paying adult. cotatifest.com

• Daydream Among the Dahlias: A far corner of Petaluma erupts into bejeweled color every July, marking the beginning of dahlia season. The Happy Dahlia Farm maintains a seasonal farm of dazzling field-grown flowers, a magnet for Instagrammers and plein-air painters that is an only-in-summer treat. Growers Kate Rowe and Omar Duran invite visitors to dilly-dally among more than 400 varieties of premium dahlias, available for sale. July to October. 2478 E. Washington St., Petaluma, 707-338-9478, thehappydahliafarm.com

• Play Beach Bum for the Day: Just driving along Highway 1 on a hot summer day, windows down and music on, is enough to make anyone’s day. But even better than that? Pulling off into one of Sonoma Coast’s many beach coves, picnic in hand. Our favorite is Russian Gulch, just north of Jenner. Rip currents are strong here, so swimming isn’t recommended, but the

dramatic 120-foot cliffs bookending the beach make for a nearly unparalleled view. For easier access (and a beach option with sand), we recommend Wright’s Beach to the south. 18794 Shoreline Highway, Jenner, parks.ca.gov

• Take the Waters: Morton’s Warm Springs in Glen Ellen is a true summertime gem. To be clear: This is not a hot springs spa, but it’s a wonderful place to spend a sunny afternoon. The property features two mineral pools, a wading pool for kids, picnic and barbecue sites, plus lawn games and ping pong. Day-use fees range from $15-$25. 1651 Warm Springs Road, Glen Ellen, 707-833-5511, mortonswarmsprings.com

• Take a Flying Leap: What’s the best view in Sonoma County? From the door of an airplane, 9,000 feet up. Celebrate that summertime freedom by free-falling with Cloverdale’s Norcal Skydiving. As you fall, you’ll take in views stretching from the Pacific Ocean all the way to the Sierra Nevada (if you can focus on the view, that is). If you’re going to jump out of a plane, it might as well be on a clear summer morning over Wine Country. 220 Airport Road, Cloverdale, 888-667-2259, norcalskydiving.com

• Catch a Wave: The best way to experience the picturesque water along the Sonoma Coast is to dive right into it. And doing that is made so much simpler with a little help from the folks at the Bodega Bay Surf Shack. Visitors can choose between a group lesson ($109) or a private session ($145), with both lasting about 2.5 hours. The shop also rents skimboards, boogie boards, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. 400 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3944, bodegabaysurf.com

• Look Up: When darkness falls on Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, things are just getting started at the Robert Ferguson Observatory With the nonprofit’s summer night sky classes, there’s no better excuse to head up the mountain. Classes can be taken individually or as a series, and are designed for all levels of stargazer. Each presentation lasts about 90 minutes, during which attendees will learn about different summer constellations and their associated myths. After class, check out the stars through the observatory’s telescopes. 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, 707-833-6979, rfo.org

• Climb into a Shell: Fitting yourself snugly into your rowing shell, you and your hardy crew set off, gliding inches from the water’s surface with each coordinated stroke. Seated in front, a coxswain keeps the rhythm. In no time, everyone has worked up a sweat. Rowing is a terrific cardio and upper-body workout — and few places are better suited to the sport than the Petaluma River. The North Bay Rowing Club offers learn-to-row programs for adults and camps for kids. Private lessons and equipment check-out for the more experienced can be booked year-round. 699 Second St., Petaluma, northbayrowing.org

• Make a Splash on Spring Lake: Throughout the summer, an inflatable playground gently floats on the surface of the lagoon at Spring Lake — that is until hordes of kids start jumping, bouncing and climbing on the slippery maze of trampolines, bridges and slides. If all that bouncing isn’t your thing, there are areas for swim-

July Through September

ming, paddleboarding and wading for the tots. Parking is $7, admission to the water park is $10 and admission to the lagoon for swimming is free. Rentals for kayaks and paddleboards are available, online reservations are recommended. Spring Lake Regional Park, 393 Violetti Road, Santa Rosa, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov

• Get Sporty: Looking for a more active outing on the Russian River than the classic float? Try Kayaking and Stand Up Paddleboarding. Burke’s Canoe Trips in Forestville is the go-to option for your kayak and canoe rental needs, but several outposts catering to stand-up paddleboarding have sprung up. Try Rubicon Adventures or SUP Odyssey in Forestville — or Russian River Paddleboards in Windsor for those interested in spending a day upriver. burkescanoetrips.com; rubiconadventures.com; supodyssey.com; russianriverpaddleboards.com

• Go Glamping: AutoCamp Russian River, a “glamping” resort in a Guerneville redwood grove, marries a wilderness escape complete with barbecue pit to the indulgence of a boutique hotel with spa-like bathrooms and luxe linens. Accommodations range from nostalgic Airstream trailers to luxury tents scattered around a midcentury modern clubhouse stocked with board games, morning coffee and a cozy fireplace. 14120 Old Cazadero Road, Guerneville, 707-604-6103, autocamp.com

• Watch a Flick Outdoors: As part of downtown Santa Rosa’s free Summer On The Square series, movies will be played on a massive LED screen in Courthouse Square starting at 6 p.m. on select Monday nights through July 22. Family-Friendly activities are planned for the hour before each screening, movie snacks, food truck fare and beer and wine from local producers will be available for sale to enjoy during the movie. Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa, downtownsantarosa.org/summer

• Outdoor Films for the Kiddos: Windsor kicked off its free Family Movies on the Green series in early June, featuring children’s movie screenings on the Town Green that will continue every Tuesday (except July 2) through Aug. 6. Films start 15 minutes after sunset. For more information and movie dates, head to townofwindsor.com.

• Take to the Town Green: Every Thursday from June to August, folks bring their chairs early to reserve a spot on Windsor’s quaint Town Green for the annual concert series and activities. As summer heats up, so do the music, farmers market and family-friendly lawn games. Vendors have food, booze and cool lemonade to keep you full and hydrated until dusk. 5-8 p.m. 701 McClelland Drive, Windsor, townofwindsor.com

• Pitch a Tent in the Perfect Spot: Between the secluded ocean cove west of Highway 1 and the fern-filled redwood canyon that beckons from the east, the 210-acre Stillwater Cove Regional Park is a gem. The park’s 23 inland campsites offer quick access to the sheltered beach, a popular spot for kayaking, picnicking and tidepooling. More than three miles of trails include a blufftop walk and vista point, as well as lushly forested Stockhoff Creek and Canyon Trail loop options. Reservations required. 22455 Highway 1, parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov

• Send the Kids to Camp: It’s a Santa Rosa rite of passage to send your kid to Camp WaTam for a week of old-fashioned fun canoeing on Lake Ralphine, learning ridiculous camp songs, making lanyards, eating popsicles, and getting good and dirty. Popular with the elementary-school set since the 1950s, the program has kept to its simple roots, making it a wonderfully anachronistic portal for kids more familiar with Snapchat than their own backyards. In Howarth Park, through Aug. 16, srcity.org. Note: If Camp Wa-Tam reaches capacity, there are a wealth of other summer camps available for kids.

• Make a Great Ascent: For a quick, lung-punching mountain bike loop in Trione-Annadel State Park, leave your car in the Newanga Avenue parking lot and head east on the fire trail that follows the path of Spring Creek. At the first bridge, keep right to stay on the wide trail; cross the second bridge and you are now on Canyon Trail that leads to Lake Ilsanjo. Keep the lake on your left and take Canyon to Warren Richardson Trail, which will bring you to the Channel Drive parking lot. Channel Drive Trail runs parallel to the road — ride it until the trail ends at the ranger station. Back on the road, take a hard left up Violetti Road and a quick right into Spring Lake Regional Park, returning to the parking lot. parks.ca.gov

• Appreciate Nature with the Kids: Nonprofit LandPaths offers fun and easy ways for the family to get in tune with nature, such as its Let’s Read Outside series where kids (geared towards children 5 and younger) and their families can read bilingual, nature-themed books together in the garden at LandPath’s Bayer Farm in Santa Rosa. Reading sessions are held 1012:30 a.m. every Friday through summer (except July 5). Kids can also play in the garden, make nature-themed arts and crafts, and learn about earth’s various critters. LandPaths also offers plenty of summer camps for kids and teens. landpaths.org

• Mosey Through a Magical Museum: While the Charles M. Schulz Museum is a favorite destination year-round, it’s an especially nice spot to cool off during the dog days of summer. 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa, 7075794452, schulzmuseum.org

• Spruce Up Your Tuesdays: For an evening of food, music and community spirit, check out Healdsburg’s Tuesdays in the Plaza, 5-8 p.m. every Tuesday through August. Local food vendors will be on-site to provide delicious fare, and an eclectic array of bands, spanning genres from folk rock to electric soul, are lined up to perform each week. Healdsburg Plaza, ci.healdsburg. ca.us

• Napa Friday Nights in the Park: The event takes place at Veteran’s Park on Third & Main St. in Downtown Napa. Two bands will be playing each night! Bring your own low-back chairs & picnic baskets, or food & nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. July 7, 14, 21 and 28. Time: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. donapa.com

• Napa Valley Paddle: Your destination for perfect paddling down the Napa River. Hourly rentals and guided tours. www.napavalleypaddle.com

Join Pets Lifeline Summer Camp

for our 20th Anniversary Celebration sponsored by Vicki Soulier, from June 3rd through August 1st. It’s an exciting oppor tunity for your children to discover the world of responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and compassion for our furr y friends.

Campers will engage in interactive sessions covering pet care basics, training, communication, exercise, and more tailored to the needs of our four-legged friends. They’ll also discover the joy of hands-on activities such as pet training sessions and enjoy some unstructured playtime with our friendly cats and dogs. Each day is an opportunity for campers to thrive as they explore the world of pets.

Special Guest Appearances: Our camp features visits from therapy animals, ser vice dogs, and even exotic pets, providing campers with unique and enriching experiences. These special guests enhance the learning environment, allowing campers to interact with a variety of animals and discover their roles in society Whether it’s learning about the calming effect of therapy animals or the important jobs performed by ser vice dogs, campers will be inspired by these special visitors.

Focus on Life Skills: In addition to learning about pets, we emphasize empathy, compassion, and teamwork through group games, team-building activities, and collaborative projects. Campers engage in activities that promote personal growth, leadership skills, and social development, helping them to thrive in all aspects of life. Our camp environment is inclusive and supportive, with instructors dedicated to ensuring ever y child feels welcome and valued. Through activities like team challenges and group discussions, campers learn the importance of working together and supporting one another

Testimonials: Hear what past campers and parents have to say about their experience at Pets Lifeline Summer Camp.

“My son attended summer camp at Pets Lifeline last year

The usual struggle of getting ready was a breeze because he was so excited to go to camp! Ever y day when camp was over he came home with a smile. He can’t wait to go again this year!” - Misty G., Parent.

“Pets Lifeline Summer Camp was the highlight of my son’s summer He came home so excited that his sister wants to join him at Camp next year They are already counting down the days until next summer!” - Rudy M., Parent.

“Being able to interact with the animals at camp was such a special experience for me. I learned so much about how to care for pets. can’t wait to come back next year!” - Sage, Camper

Limited Spaces: Don’t miss out on giving your child the summer of a lifetime! Enroll them today and watch as they engage, discover, and thrive in a supportive and enriching environment. Spaces are limited, so reser ve your child’s spot now and let the adventure begin!

Pets Lifeline Summer Camp is more than just a summer camp - it’s a place where children can engage with animals, discover new passions, and thrive in a supportive community Join us this summer and see the difference for yourself!

Summer 2024 Dance Camps

GROW ARTISTICALLY AND TECHNICALLY FIREBIRDS, BLUEBIRDS AND SWANS

Join SCD for an Exciting Summer of Dance! Space is Limited. Tuition Assistance Available

SWANS AND ELEMENTARY I

4 - 6 year olds

June 17-21 • June 24-28

9:00am - 1:00pm

Ballet, Music, Yoga, Storytime

-OR- add on more dancing

9:00am - 2:00pm

No prior experience needed

6 - 8 year olds

July 8-12 • July 15-19

9:00am - 3:00pm

Ballet, Music & Drama, Yoga, Storytime & more dancing

No prior experience needed

June 10–August 16

Art, cartooning, cooking, science, ice skating, and more!

n Ages 3+ and teens, plus Junior volunteers (ages 12–13)

n Includes a free Snoopy t-shirt! SIGN UP TODAY!

schulzmuseum.org/classes-camps

Peanuts!

Relive the joys of summer with Snoopy and friends! Explore beach-themed Peanuts comic strips, art, vintage toys, and more. On view through September 11

ELEMENTARY II to ADVANCED

9 year olds through teens

July 22-26 • July 29-August 2 August 5-9

Elem II-Intermediate I: 9:00am-3:00pm

Intermediate II - Advanced: 12- 6pm

Ballet, Pointe & Repertoire, Yoga and more

Enroll for 1, 2 or all 3 weeks

To sign up or for more info, please email info@sonomaconservatoryofdance org or call 707.938.1424 • Schedule subject to change

When is the right time to look into summer camp?

Summer camp provides children weeks of entertainment, camaraderie and opportunities to learn and grow. It also offers a welcome respite for parents and other caregivers from having to provide recreation for kids during summer vacation, especially if those kids will be attending a sleepaway camp. Many children are emotionally ready to attend camp between the ages of eight and 10. Some need a little more time to mature. Parents may think they have plenty of time to investigate camps. Chances are if the weather has already warmed and summer vacation is on the horizon, then it’s already too late to get kids into most summer camps.

According to HealthyChildren.org, a division of the

American Academy of Pediatrics, it is important to start researching summer camps as soon as possible. Many start booking as early as January of the current term year. Furthermore, popular programs fill up quite fast. Even though summer weather may be furthest from one’s mind in the middle of winter, this is the time when summer camp decisions must be made.

Start by asking for recommendations from others. The difficulty with this approach is that many people are very protective of their camp choices, especially if the programs are particularly popular. They may not be inclined to give up the secrets to their good thing, especially if that means kids will have to compete for limited spots. Parents also should conduct an internet search of camps in the

SSUMMER2024 PORTSCAMPS

area and look at online reviews and ratings. Find out if the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association. This will not guarantee a risk-free environment, but ACA accreditation is a better bet for providing a camp that is safe and nurturing.

Price also may be a factor in the camp decision. Camps are not all priced the same, so it may require doing some math to figure out what is the best value. Location also can be a consideration. Having to drive a long distance away for camp can be a deterrent to some people. Rest assured that families who are a little late to the game may be able to find summer camp accommodations. But they may have to make some concessions.