Junior Guides Raft Camp is excited to offer scholarships for our 2022 season! Campers run rivers, build lasting friendships, and become leaders at our three-day "Otters" camp for kids ages 6-16, on the South Fork, American River in Coloma, California.
Otters: Kids ages 10-16
Our 3-day, class III river rafting programs for beginners or experienced river runners include highly qualified guides, kid-sized boats and gear, shuttles to and from put-in and take-out, two substantial daily snacks, a lunch buffet, evening activities, a private link to photos of camp, and a camp gift. On-water daytime rafting program runs from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, depending on the camper's age and group. When we get to shore at the end of the day, fun collaborative evening activities like skit night, and the popular dance party begin at our idyllic base camp. Scholarships awarded include a full or partial tuition credit of up to $400; less if camp is unavoidably shortened due no-water release days (we will know in April when SMUD publishes the water release schedule).
Camping is optional, and camping and camp meals are not included in the scholarship. This unique camping option makes JuniorGuides a family camp and not something solely for the kids. While kids spend days on the river learning and playing, mentored by professional river guides, the rest of the family can pursue adult activities and friendships while still connecting with their child every morning and evening.
Ospreys: Kids with outdoor experience aged 14-18
One scholarship will also be available for our new "advanced" Junior Guides session called "Ospreys" for kids 14-18 years old with some outdoor experience. This intensiver camp will run 5 days from Sunday evening, July 10-Friday night, July 15. We will run the South Fork and Middle Fork American, and Tuolumne rivers. An award for this scholarship will include all or partial fees, and cover camping, transportation, food, all logistics and rafting equipment.
Sample characteristics of a good scholarship applicant include, but are not limited to: An interest in rivers as well as a desire to learn more about rafting. Willingness to explore rapidly moving cold water and dynamic swimming situations. Ability to get along well with others. A willingness to try new things, like swimming a rapid. An athletic foundation in sports like skiing, surfing, roller skating, or organized sports. While strong swimming is not a required skill, campers will be spending time floating and swimming in the river and should be comfortable with that.
Thank you again for applying. Due to the high volume of applicants, we expect to award 4 scholarships to about 20 applicants, making the chances about 20%.